Noticing a faint, sometimes pungent, odor emanating from an ear piercing is common for many people who wear earrings regularly. This phenomenon, often described as smelling like cheese, is a normal biological process and not typically a sign of a serious problem. Understanding the specific causes and implementing simple care routines can effectively manage the issue. This article explores the science of the odor and provides practical steps for prevention.
The Biological Cause of “Ear Cheese”
The distinctive odor associated with ear piercings is a direct result of a natural biological buildup within the piercing channel, often referred to informally as “ear cheese.” The skin surrounding the piercing contains sebaceous glands that produce an oily substance called sebum. This sebum is a complex mixture of lipids and wax that serves to lubricate and waterproof the skin, and it is continuously secreted into the piercing hole.
The piercing channel, or fistula, is constantly shedding dead skin cells from its inner lining. These microscopic skin flakes mix with the secreted sebum, creating a moist, nutrient-rich environment inside the small tunnel. This mixture of dead cells and oil provides a readily available food source for the naturally occurring bacteria that live harmlessly on the skin’s surface.
As the bacteria consume the sebum and dead skin cells, they engage in metabolic processes that produce waste products in the form of volatile organic compounds. These gaseous molecules are responsible for the strong, sometimes sour or cheesy smell that is released when an earring is removed. The odor is simply a byproduct of this microbial digestion process occurring within the confined space of the piercing.
How Earring Materials Influence the Odor
While biological discharge is the primary source of the smell, the earring material significantly affects the odor’s intensity. Jewelry made from lower-quality alloys, such as those containing nickel or copper, can react with the skin’s natural moisture and discharge. This reaction leads to corrosion or oxidation of the metal, introducing a metallic scent that amplifies the biological odor.
Some materials are also more porous, allowing sebum and bacteria to cling to the surface more easily. This increased surface area means buildup accumulates faster and is harder to remove with simple wiping. Conversely, highly polished, non-porous materials like implant-grade titanium or high-karat gold are less reactive and provide fewer microscopic crevices for bacteria to inhabit.
Immediate Cleaning Steps to Stop the Smell
To immediately address the odor, a two-part cleaning process focusing on both the jewelry and the piercing site is effective. First, remove the earrings and clean the jewelry using a mild, unscented liquid soap and warm water. Gently rub the posts and decorative fronts to dislodge any buildup, then rinse them completely and dry them with a clean paper towel.
Next, the piercing site needs gentle attention to remove accumulated discharge from the earlobe. Use a sterile saline solution, readily available at pharmacies, to soak the area or gently wipe it with a saturated cotton swab. Avoid harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol, as these can irritate the skin and disrupt the tissue, potentially making the problem worse.
Long-Term Prevention and Piercing Care
Preventing the odor involves establishing a consistent hygiene routine and making informed choices about jewelry. A regular cleaning schedule for your earrings, perhaps once or twice a week, prevents biological material from accumulating until it becomes noticeable.
Consider upgrading your jewelry to non-reactive, hypoallergenic materials like surgical stainless steel, titanium, or 14-karat gold or higher. These materials are less likely to corrode or react with the skin’s discharge, minimizing the metallic contribution to the smell. Additionally, occasionally removing your earrings for a few hours, especially before bed, allows the piercing channel to air out and reduces the moisture that bacteria thrive in.