Why Did My Piercing Jewelry Fall Out?

Getting a new piercing is exciting, and part of the fun is choosing beautiful, high-quality jewelry. 

At Solana, we use only surgical-grade, internally threaded jewelry — among the safest and most secure in the industry — applied by some of the best piercers in the state (and beyond). So when someone comes back saying, “My jewelry fell out!” it’s rarely because of the jewelry or the piercing itself.

The truth is, once you leave the studio, your piercing’s success depends heavily on how you care for it at home. Although it’s extremely rare, even the best jewelry can loosen or fall out if it’s handled incorrectly. That’s not something to be embarrassed about; it’s simply part of learning how to live with and care for a new piercing. The good news is that with the right habits, you can easily avoid these issues. And we are here to help!

Let’s look at the most common reasons jewelry falls out, and how you can prevent it from happening.

Biz prepping a piercing

Common Reasons Piercing Jewelry Falls Out

1. Cleaning Too Aggressively

Piercings need to be cleaned regularly, but if you scrub, twist, or move the jewelry too much during cleaning, it can cause the threaded ball or end to loosen. Remember: The goal is to keep the piercing clean, not to move the jewelry around. Gentle soaks and careful rinsing are best.

2. Over-Handling the Piercing

It’s tempting to touch or play with new jewelry, especially when it feels unfamiliar. But constantly twisting, turning, or checking the ends can work them loose. Think of it like constantly fiddling with a screw; it eventually backs out. Or like a jar lid. Keep turning it back and forth and it eventually works loose. 

Instead, trust your jewelry and only check it occasionally. The less you handle your piercing, the more secure it will stay.

3. Sleeping and Snagging

Pillows, blankets, hair, towels, and clothing can all catch on your jewelry while you’re sleeping or moving around. Even small snags can loosen the threading. If you’re a side sleeper, consider using a travel pillow (with your ear in the middle) to reduce pressure on ear piercings while they heal.

4. Natural Movement

Your body is in constant motion. Oral piercings move as you eat or talk, nose piercings shift when you smile or blow your nose, and navel piercings bend with every movement of your torso. All of that motion puts stress on the jewelry, and over time, it could loosen if you’re not checking it occasionally.

5. Over-Tightening or Improper Tightening

Sometimes people try to “fix” loose jewelry by twisting the ball tighter than necessary. But forcing it or turning it back and forth can actually strip the threads or make it easier to unscrew. Piercing jewelry doesn’t need to be wrenched down — just snug enough to stay put.

How to Prevent Jewelry From Falling Out

• Clean gently. Use the aftercare solution recommended by your piercer. Avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or anything harsh. Never twist the jewelry while cleaning.

• Handle with care. Wash your hands before touching your piercing, and avoid unnecessary fiddling.

• Check occasionally. Once or twice a week, with clean hands, gently make sure the threaded ball or end is still snug. That’s enough. You don’t need to do it constantly.

• Be mindful of sleeping and clothing. Use a travel pillow, avoid tight clothing around body piercings, and take extra care when drying off with a towel.

• Ask your piercer for help. If you ever feel unsure about your jewelry’s fit, stop by the studio. Your piercer can check it for you and re-tighten it properly.

Adam doing an ear piercing

A Shared Responsibility

It’s important to understand that once you leave the piercing studio, it is extremely rare for quality jewelry to just fall out. We’ve taken every step to set you up for success with safe, professional piercing techniques and top-of-the-line jewelry. What happens next is all about aftercare and awareness in your day-to-day life.

If you keep your aftercare routine gentle, avoid unnecessary handling, and check your jewelry once in a while, you’ll drastically reduce the chances of losing it. Your piercing deserves patience, and with the right attention, it will heal beautifully, and your jewelry will stay secure right where it belongs.