Removing Flat Back Earrings Safely and Easily
Flat back earrings, also called studs, are a perennial favorite thanks to their comfortable fit and versatility. But taking out flat back earrings can be tricky, especially when the back seems impossible to grip. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to easily remove flat back earrings without injury.
Gather the Right Tools
Removing flat back earrings is easiest with:
- Earring removal tool or hook
- Small pair of pliers
- Well-lit magnifying mirror
These tools allow you to grip the earring backs with precision. Avoid makeshift tools that can damage ears.
Wash Hands Thoroughly
Before touching your earrings, wash your hands well with soap and water. Clean hands reduce the risk of infection when removing earrings.
Work Under a Bright Light
Sit in front of a magnifying mirror with good lighting. This allows you to see the earring backs clearly for easier, safer removal.
Locate the Earring Back Edge
Identify the thin edge of the earring back by gently moving the post. The edge is usually opposite the hinged post.
Position the Removal Tool
Place the hook of the removal tool along the back’s edge. For pliers, grip the very tip of the back lightly.
Twist the Earring Back Slightly
Gently turn the back sideways a bit to break the seal between it and the piercing. Don’t rotate the post.
Draw the Back Out Slowly
Keeping the tool in position, carefully pull the back away from the piercing until it releases. Repeat on the other earring.
Tips to Avoid Injury
- Never forcefully yank an earring back
- Don’t use unsterilized tools
- Avoid touching the piercings with fingers
- Consult a piercer if you can’t remove earring yourself
- Disinfect the Earrings
Once removed, clean both earring posts and backs thoroughly with rubbing alcohol or antibacterial spray before reinserting.
Now you can put in a new pair of flat back earrings knowing removal will be a breeze next time. Just follow these safe, gentle steps to keep your piercings happy and healthy.
Conclusion
With the right tools and technique, flat back earrings can be easily removed without discomfort or injury. Always be gentle, take your time, and work under bright light. Disinfect earrings after removing to keep piercings clean. Removing flat backs is painless when you follow the proper methods to grip, twist, and draw out the backs carefully.
FAQs about Removing Flat Back Earrings
Here’s how to remove it:
Take some Vaseline or petroleum jelly.
Carefully apply it on your earlobe or ear hole and massage it. When the earring is stuck, you need to lubricate the piercing hole.
Try to move it back and forth, and on the sides. When the earring moves freely, it means that it will come off easily.
Sometimes, you’ll just need to get a better grip on the jewelry to have enough leverage to get the ball unstuck. A pair of latex or rubber gloves will usually provide enough grip to unscrew a stuck piercing ball. Make sure the jewelry is completely dry and grab the ball with your gloved hand.
To remove externally or internally threaded jewelry, hold the flat back disc with one hand, hold the front with your other hand and rotate the ball/ or front part of the jewelry to the left (righty tighty – lefty loosy!) and unscrew until it comes apart.
The trick I personally have found is taking apart the “butterfly”.. using clean, needle nose pliers to open the backing and then the backing slides right off without hurting the person at all. These are all tips I have used working at a piercing place using these specific piercing earrings.
