Can You Wear Clip-On Earrings with Pierced Ears?

If you have pierced ears, you might automatically assume clip-on earrings aren't for you. But the truth is, clip-ons aren't just for people without piercings. Many people with pierced ears wear them too, and for good reason.

Why People with Pierced Ears May Choose Clip-Ons

  • Metal allergies - Some people find their ears react to metals in piercings, but not to the same metals in clip-ons, since clip-ons rest on the surface of the ear (or have no metal touching the ear at all like with resin clip-ons)
  • Piercings rejecting - Many people have their piercings reject, so although they have gotten their ears pierced and have tried to wear pierced earrings, their ears prefer clip-on earrings since they can actually wear them!
  • Comfort break - If your piercings feel sore or irritated, clip-ons let you wear earrings without putting pressure on the hole
  • Versatility - Clip-ons let you try styles you don't want to commit to with a piercing (like higher ear placements, cuffs, second or third lobe piercings, or statement pieces)

Benefits of Clip-Ons (Even with Piercings)

  • Allergy-friendly - Clip-ons are way more hypoallergenic for those with sensitive earlobes that might have pierced ears but find clip-ons more comfy
  • Mix & Match - You can wear pierced studs in one hole and one or more clip-on earrings higher up for a stacked look while only having one real piercing
  • Less risk - If you're worried about stretching or damaging your piercings with heavier earrings, clip-ons are a safer choice since they sit on top of the earlobe instead of dragging down the piercing hole
  • Style flexibility - Try oversized hoops or statement earrings without worrying about them tugging on a piercing

Tips for Wearing Clip-Ons with Piercings

  • Choose lightweight designs for the most comfort
  • Alternate between pierced and clip-on styles to give your piercings a break when they're irritated
  • If you have sensitive ears, go for nickel-free or stainless steel options to avoid irritation, or even better go for resin clips where no metal touches the ear at all
  • Experiment with placement, clip-ons don't have to sit exactly where your piercings are if that is not comfortable for you

The Bottom Line

Yes you can absolutely wear clip-on earrings with pierced ears and many people find it more comfortable, including our many customers that have told us they have piercings but prefer to wear our comfortable clip-on earrings! Whether you're giving your piercings a rest, experimenting with new looks, or just want a comfortable option for all-day wear, clip-ons are a great addition to your jewelry rotation.

Shop our Clip-On Earrings Collection