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When choosing earrings for children, it’s essential to consider factors beyond their appearance. The earrings should be appropriately sized and safe. In this post, we’ll explore various safe earring options for children, present popular styles, and offer helpful tips for your selection process.
Safe Earring Options for Children
Here are some key considerations when picking the best earring options for kids:
• Hypoallergenic Metal: Since children have sensitive ears, opting for hypoallergenic metals is crucial to avoid allergic reactions. Many parents prefer materials such as platinum, sterling silver, gold, or surgical steel, which are often non-toxic and safe. Avoid using plastic or cheaper materials. Additionally, look for nickel-free options if your child has a nickel allergy.
• Secure Backing: The type of earring back is important for children. A screw back earring is a secure and popular choice, as it prevents the back from falling off and becoming a choking hazard. Covered screw backs are especially comfortable for infants when sleeping. Butterfly backs are suitable for older children who are more accustomed to wearing earrings.
• Style: Safety in earring style is paramount to prevent choking hazards. Avoid dangle and hoop earrings as children might pull on them, leading to potential damage and infection.
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- Studs are the best option for infants until they mature. Once the earring holes have healed, close-fitting hoops, or “huggies,” become an option.
- There are many style options for studs. Some parents prefer tiny gemstone studs, with diamonds, lab-created diamonds, and birthstones being popular choices. Lightweight studs make a memorable first pair of earrings!
Helpful Hints
Consider these points before piercing your child’s ears:
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- Consult with your physician before making a decision.
- Be aware of the risks, especially the potential for infection with children’s piercings.
- Avoid gun piercing. Instead, seek a professional who uses sterile equipment and techniques, such as the needle method. Some physicians offer piercing services or can recommend trusted professionals.
- Commit to post-care, including cleaning the front and back of the piercings several times a day to ensure proper healing and prevent infection.
- Purchase earrings from reputable brands that offer easy returns or exchanges if you are not satisfied.
FAQs
What earrings are best for children?
Many parents prefer hypoallergenic earrings for children to avoid infection. High-quality materials like sterling silver, gold, or surgical steel are often non-toxic and safe. Avoid using plastic or cheaper materials. Nickel-free options are available for children with nickel allergies.
Are earrings safe for babies?
Yes, earrings are safe for babies. Using precious metal posts reduces the risk of allergic reactions. Secure earring backs, such as screw backs, prevent the backs from poking or becoming choking hazards.
What age is best for ear piercing?
The optimal age for piercing a baby’s ears is between two and four months old, as they’ve likely received two tetanus shots by then. Waiting is often recommended by physicians. As children grow, they become more aware of pain and may tug at their ears, increasing the risk of infection.
Do studs or hoops heal better?
Studs are recommended as they heal better than hoops. Hoop earrings can be tugged and pulled on by children, potentially causing infection. Studs are ideal until the child is older and the earring holes have healed, after which close-fitting hoops, or “huggies,” can be considered.
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