How to Put in Hoop Earrings - Abbott Atelier

How to Put in Hoop Earrings

When it comes to hoop earrings, we're spoiled for choice! Let's explore how to pick the perfect pair for your style and face shape.

First, consider the size. Tiny hoops add a subtle sparkle, while oversized ones make a bold statement. For everyday wear, we love medium-sized hoops that hit just below the jawline.

Material matters too. Gold hoops are classic, while silver suits cooler skin tones. For a trendy twist, try rose gold or colorful enamel options.

Face shape plays a role in finding your ideal hoops:

  • Round faces: Elongated or oval hoops
  • Square faces: Thin, delicate hoops
  • Oval faces: Any style works well
  • Heart-shaped faces: Teardrop or curved hoops

Don't forget about comfort! Lightweight materials like titanium or hollow hoops are perfect for all-day wear.

For a versatile collection, we suggest having:

  1. Classic gold or silver hoops
  2. Embellished hoops for special occasions
  3. Fun, colorful hoops for a pop of personality

Basic Tools for Earring Insertion

Let's talk about the essentials you'll need to put in those fabulous hoop earrings! First up, a mirror is a must-have. We love using a well-lit vanity mirror or a handheld one for precision.

Clean hands are crucial, so keep some antibacterial soap nearby. For extra care, grab some rubbing alcohol and cotton swabs to disinfect your earrings and lobes.

A steady hand is key, but sometimes we need a little help. Needle-nose pliers can be a lifesaver for gripping small clasps or adjusting the hoop's shape.

Here's a quick list of our go-to tools:

  • Mirror
  • Antibacterial soap
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Cotton swabs
  • Needle-nose pliers

For those tricky moments, ear lubricant can be a game-changer. It helps the hoop slide through smoothly, especially if you're new to wearing earrings.

Lastly, don't forget a cute jewelry dish to keep your hoops safe when you're not wearing them. It's not just practical—it's a stylish addition to your vanity!

Prepping Your Ears for Earrings

Before putting in hoop earrings, we need to make sure our ears are ready. This involves proper cleaning and finding the right spot for piercing.

Sterilization

Cleanliness is key when it comes to ear piercings. We always start by washing our hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Next, we gently clean our earlobes with an alcohol wipe or cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol. This step is crucial to remove any dirt or bacteria that could lead to infection.

For extra precaution, we can use a saline solution to rinse our ears. It's gentle and helps maintain a clean environment. We make sure to dry our ears completely with a clean towel or tissue before moving on to the next step.

Marking the Spot

Finding the perfect spot for our hoop earrings is essential for a balanced look. We start by standing in front of a well-lit mirror. Using a washable marker or eyeliner pencil, we make a small dot where we want the earring to go.

To ensure symmetry, we measure the distance from the dot to the bottom of our earlobe on both sides. A good rule of thumb is to place the mark about 6-8 millimeters above the lowest point of the earlobe.

We take a step back and check if the marks look even from different angles. If needed, we adjust until we're happy with the placement. Remember, it's better to take our time with this step than to rush and end up with uneven piercings.

Steps to Put in Hoop Earrings

Putting in hoop earrings doesn't have to be a struggle. We've broken down the process into simple steps to help you rock those stylish hoops with ease.

Opening the Hoop

First things first, let's get that hoop open! Most hoops have a tiny hinge or gap that allows them to open. Gently hold the earring between your thumb and forefinger. Look for the opening - it's usually a small break in the circular shape.

For lever-back hoops, flip the lever open. If you've got a hinged design, carefully pull the two sides apart. Be gentle to avoid bending the metal. Some hoops might have a post that slides out of a tube - in this case, simply pull the post out.

Pro tip: If the hoop is stubborn, don't force it! Try using a bit of earring lubricant or a dab of clear nail polish to help it glide open smoothly.

Inserting the Earring

Now that we've got our hoop open, it's time to slip it through our ear. Clean hands are a must here - we don't want any dirt or bacteria near our piercings!

Tilt your head slightly to the side for better access. Gently push the open end of the hoop through your piercing hole. Go slow and steady - there's no need to rush.

If you're having trouble seeing what you're doing, try using a mirror. A well-lit room can make all the difference too. Remember, the hoop should slide through easily without any pain.

Securing the Closure

We're in the home stretch! Once the hoop is through your ear, it's time to close it up. Carefully bring the two ends of the hoop back together.

For lever-back hoops, simply flip the lever closed. With hinged designs, align the two sides and press them together until you hear a soft click. For slide-in posts, gently push the post back into its tube.

Double-check that the closure is secure. Give your hoop a gentle tug - it shouldn't come apart. If it feels loose, try closing it again. A properly secured hoop will sit comfortably and won't fall out during wear.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Putting in hoop earrings can sometimes be tricky, but we've got you covered with solutions to common problems.

If the Earring Won't Go Through

When our hoop earring just won't slide through, don't panic! First, check if the earring post is bent. A gentle straightening with clean hands can often do the trick. If that's not it, our piercing might be slightly closed. We can use a bit of ice to numb the area and reduce swelling. Then, try inserting the earring again with slow, steady pressure.

Still no luck? A dab of water-based lubricant on the earring post can help it glide in smoothly. Remember, never force it! If we're feeling pain or major resistance, it's best to wait a day and try again. In some cases, visiting a professional piercer might be necessary to safely reopen the hole.

Dealing with Sensitive Ears

We love our bling, but sensitive ears can be a real pain. To avoid irritation, we should opt for hypoallergenic materials like 14k gold, sterling silver, or titanium. Before putting in our hoops, we can apply a thin layer of clear nail polish to the posts. This creates a barrier between our skin and the metal.

Cleaning is key! We should wash our ears and earrings with mild soap and warm water before insertion. A saline solution can also help soothe any irritation. If redness or discomfort persists, we might need to take a break from wearing earrings for a few days to let our ears heal.

For extra comfort, we can look for hoops with a slightly thicker gauge. These distribute pressure more evenly and can be gentler on sensitive piercings. With these tips, we'll be rocking our favorite hoops in no time!

Aftercare and Maintenance

Proper care for your hoop earrings ensures they stay beautiful and hygienic. Let's explore how to keep them sparkling clean and safe to wear.

Cleaning Your Earrings

We love our hoops, but they can collect dirt and oils over time. To clean them, we use a soft cloth dipped in warm, soapy water. Gently wipe the earrings, paying extra attention to any crevices. For stubborn grime, we carefully use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

After cleaning, we rinse our hoops thoroughly with clean water. It's crucial to dry them completely with a lint-free cloth to prevent water spots. For extra shine, we sometimes use a jewelry polishing cloth.

Different materials may need special care. For gold or silver hoops, we avoid harsh chemicals. With gemstone-embellished hoops, we're extra gentle to protect the settings.

Earring Hygiene

Keeping our earrings clean isn't just about looks - it's about health too! We always wash our hands before handling our hoops. This simple step prevents transferring bacteria to our ears.

We store our hoops separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches. A fabric-lined jewelry box or individual pouches work wonders. For travel, we use a small case to keep them safe and clean.

It's important to give our ears a break. We avoid wearing hoops 24/7, especially when sleeping or showering. This helps prevent irritation and gives our piercings time to breathe.

If we notice any signs of infection or irritation, we remove our earrings immediately. Cleaning our earlobes with saline solution can help. For persistent issues, we don't hesitate to consult a professional.

Styling Tips for Hoop Earrings

Hoop earrings are versatile accessories that can elevate any outfit. Let's explore how to match them with your clothes and mix different metals for a stylish look.

Matching Earrings to Outfits

When styling hoop earrings, we love to consider the neckline of our tops. For V-necks or scoop necks, larger hoops draw attention to our collarbones. With turtlenecks or high necklines, smaller hoops add a subtle touch of glamour.

We find that thin hoops pair well with casual outfits like jeans and a t-shirt. For dressier occasions, we opt for thicker or embellished hoops to make a statement.

Color coordination is key. Gold hoops complement warm-toned outfits, while silver hoops work beautifully with cool colors. For a bold look, we sometimes choose hoops that contrast with our outfit's color palette.

Mixing and Matching Metals

We're all about breaking traditional rules when it comes to mixing metals. Combining gold and silver hoops can create a unique, eye-catching style.

To achieve a balanced look, we start with one dominant metal and add accents of another. For example, we might wear gold hoops with a silver necklace, or vice versa.

We love layering different sized hoops in various metals for an edgy vibe. This works especially well with multiple ear piercings.

When mixing metals, we keep our other accessories in mind. A mixed-metal watch or stackable rings can tie the whole look together seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Putting in hoop earrings can be tricky, but we've got you covered with answers to common questions. Let's explore some helpful tips and techniques for wearing these stylish accessories.

What are the steps to secure hoop earrings with a clasp?

First, open the clasp on your hoop earring. Gently insert the post through your earlobe. Hold the earring in place with one hand while using the other to close the clasp. Listen for a soft click to ensure it's securely fastened.

Is there an easy way to put on hoop earrings by myself?

We've found that using a mirror is super helpful. Stand in good lighting and tilt your head slightly to the side. This gives you a better view of your ear. Use both hands - one to steady the earring and the other to guide it through your piercing.

Can you share tips for inserting small hoop earrings without hassle?

Small hoops can be fiddly, but we've got a trick! Try using tweezers to hold the earring steady as you insert it. This gives you more control and precision. Clean your hands and earrings first to avoid any irritation.

How do you properly wear hoop earrings to make a statement?

To rock your hoops, choose a size that complements your face shape. Larger hoops can be bold and eye-catching for nights out. Smaller hoops work great for everyday wear. Pair them with a simple hairstyle to let your earrings shine.

What techniques work best for putting hoop earrings on men?

The process is similar for everyone! Men can use the same mirror technique we mentioned earlier. If you have thicker earlobes, look for hoops with a wider opening. This makes insertion easier and more comfortable.

Could you explain how to comfortably insert hoop earrings into cartilage?

Cartilage piercings need extra care. Start by cleaning the area and your hands. Use a gentle touch when inserting the hoop. Go slowly and don't force it. If you feel any pain, stop and seek advice from a professional piercer.

Back to blog