First earring for children: what should you pay attention to?

Your child's first earrings — it's a moment many parents consider carefully. When is the right time? What material is safe? And how do you properly care for the piercing? In this blog, Petit Bonbon offers honest and practical advice, so you are well prepared.

What is the right age?

There's no universal rule, but most dermatologists and pediatricians recommend waiting until the child asks for earrings themselves — usually from 7 to 8 years old. At that age, the child can help with the care of the piercing and is aware of what a piercing entails. Younger children are more at risk of accidental pulling out, infections, or losing an earring.

Material is everything: always choose nickel-free

Children's skin is more sensitive than adults'. The risk of a nickel allergy is real — and an allergy that develops early can last a lifetime. Therefore, always choose:

• Surgical steel (316L) — the safest choice for a fresh piercing
• Titanium — completely hypoallergenic, ideal for sensitive skin
• Sterling silver (925) or solid gold — good alternative once the piercing is fully healed
• Nickel-free gold-plated brass — like Petit Bonbon's earrings

Avoid cheap plastic or unknown metal earrings — even if they look harmless.

Which style is safe for children?

For children, small studs are the safest choice. They don't protrude, can't snag on clothing or hair, and are harder to lose. Avoid large dangling earrings, hoops, or earrings with loose parts for young children — the risk of swallowing or injury is too great.

Piercing care: the first 6 weeks are crucial

• Clean the piercing twice a day with a sterile saline solution or wound spray
• Do not rotate the earring — this is outdated advice that does more harm than good
• Do not touch the piercing with dirty hands
• Do not remove the earrings for the first 6 weeks
• Do not let your child swim with the earrings in during healing

What does Petit Bonbon do for children?

Our collection focuses on women and girls from their teenage years. All our earrings are 100% nickel-free and lead- and cadmium-free. For young teenagers, our small studs and delicate dangling earrings are a beautiful first step into the world of jewelry — safe, stylish, and handmade in Belgium.

The first earring is a milestone. Ensure it's also a safe, positive experience by choosing the right materials and taking good care of the piercing.

👉 View our collection of nickel-free earrings