Should I Clean My Gauged Ears With Alcohol?

Antibacterial soap is a better choice than alcohol for cleaning gauged ears.

Alcohol Kills Microorganisms Effectively

According to Johns Hopkins University, ethyl alcohol used at 60- to 90-percent strength is quite effective in killing microorganisms on the skin. Ethyl alcohol is inexpensive, easily available and one of the safest known antiseptics.

Alcohol Can Irritate Skin

According to Young Women's Health, a health information organization for teen girls based at Children's Hospital Boston, alcohol should not be used to clean any kind of piercing. Although alcohol kills bacteria that can cause infections, it is too harsh for the delicate skin around the gauge. Alcohol will dry out and irritate the skin, making it more prone to infection.

Bottom Line

While alcohol is effective at killing microorganisms that may cause infections to gauge piercings, it is not recommended. Wash the area around the gauge with a saline solution or noniodized sea salt solution. Follow the directions carefully. In the shower, clean the jewelry and piercing with antibacterial liquid soap for no more than 30 seconds. Rinse and dry the area with a clean paper towel. Repeat this process twice a day and avoid over-washing.

References

• Johns Hopkins University: Reproductive Health Online: Antiseptics: PDF
• Young Women's Health: Body Piercing