Eyebrow piercings are a stylish and edgy form of self-expression, but they require proper care to heal correctly. If you’re considering getting an eyebrow piercing, or you’ve just gotten one, you may be wondering: how long does it take for an eyebrow piercing to heal?
The healing process depends on various factors, including aftercare, personal hygiene, and individual healing ability. In this guide, we’ll cover the average healing time, aftercare tips, potential complications, and signs of a healed piercing.
How Long Does It Take for an Eyebrow Piercing to Heal?
Average Healing Time
On average, an eyebrow piercing takes anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks to heal completely. However, in some cases, it can take up to 12 weeks depending on how well you care for it and how your body reacts to the piercing.
Factors Affecting Healing Time
Several factors influence how quickly your eyebrow piercing heals, including:
✔ Aftercare Routine – Following proper cleaning instructions can speed up healing.
✔ Body’s Healing Ability – Some people heal faster or slower than others due to genetics and immune response.
✔ Jewelry Type – Hypoallergenic materials like titanium or surgical steel reduce irritation and promote faster healing.
✔ Lifestyle Choices – Smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor diet can slow down healing.
✔ Infection or Irritation – Improper care or touching the piercing too much can delay recovery.
Eyebrow Piercing Healing Stages
Understanding the healing stages can help you know what to expect.
Week 1-2: Initial Healing
- Expect redness, swelling, and tenderness around the piercing.
- Some light bleeding and discharge may occur.
- Avoid touching, twisting, or changing the jewelry during this stage.
Week 3-6: Skin Repairing Phase
- The swelling and redness should start subsiding.
- A clear or white crust may form around the piercing—this is normal healing discharge.
- Continue with strict aftercare to prevent infection.
Week 6-8: Surface Healing Complete
- The outer layer of skin should be healed, but internal healing may still be ongoing.
- The piercing should feel less tender and irritated.
- Avoid removing or changing jewelry until fully healed.
Week 8-12: Fully Healed Piercing
- No more pain, discharge, or redness.
- You can change your jewelry if necessary, but always use clean hands.
How to Speed Up Eyebrow Piercing Healing
Follow these aftercare steps to promote faster healing and prevent complications.
1. Clean Your Piercing Properly
- Use a saline solution or a mild antibacterial soap twice a day.
- Avoid alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as they can dry out the skin and slow healing.
2. Avoid Touching or Twisting the Jewelry
- Hands carry bacteria, which can lead to infection.
- If you must touch it, wash your hands thoroughly first.
3. Avoid Makeup and Hair Products
- Cosmetics, lotions, and sprays can clog the piercing and cause irritation.
- Keep hair away from the piercing to reduce contact with bacteria.
4. Sleep on the Opposite Side
- Avoid sleeping on the pierced eyebrow to prevent irritation.
- Use a clean pillowcase to reduce exposure to bacteria.
5. Maintain a Healthy Diet
- Vitamin C, zinc, and protein help your body heal faster.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.
Signs Your Eyebrow Piercing Is Healed
Knowing whether your eyebrow piercing is fully healed is important before changing jewelry. Here are the signs:
✔ No redness, pain, or swelling
✔ No discharge or crust formation
✔ Jewelry moves freely without discomfort
✔ No sensitivity when touched
If you’re still experiencing tenderness or irritation after 12 weeks, your piercing may not be fully healed yet.
Common Eyebrow Piercing Complications & How to Avoid Them
1. Infection 🤕
🔹 Symptoms: Redness, warmth, pus discharge, swelling, and pain
🔹 Prevention: Clean your piercing daily, avoid touching it, and use clean bedding
2. Migration or Rejection 🚫
🔹 Symptoms: Jewelry moves closer to the skin surface, redness, or irritation
🔹 Prevention: Use lightweight jewelry made from titanium or surgical steel
3. Keloids or Bumps 🔴
🔹 Symptoms: Hard raised bumps around the piercing
🔹 Prevention: Avoid irritating the piercing and use chamomile tea compresses to reduce swelling
4. Jewelry Getting Caught 🔄
🔹 Symptoms: Snagging on clothes, glasses, or hair can lead to irritation or injury
🔹 Prevention: Be mindful when changing clothes or washing your face
When to Seek Medical Help
If you notice any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
❗ Severe pain that worsens over time
❗ Pus discharge with a foul smell
❗ Excessive swelling and redness spreading beyond the piercing site
❗ Jewelry being pushed out by the skin (rejection)
FAQs: Eyebrow Piercing Healing Time
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering how long does it take for an eyebrow piercing to heal, the answer depends on your aftercare routine and body’s natural healing speed. While most heal within 6-8 weeks, some may take up to 12 weeks.
To ensure a smooth healing process, follow proper cleaning practices, avoid unnecessary touching, and choose quality jewelry. If you experience severe pain, pus, or prolonged redness, seek medical advice to prevent complications.
By following the right aftercare steps, you’ll have a fully healed eyebrow piercing that looks stylish and feels great!
Disclaimer: The content on Wellness Derive is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical concerns.
