If you need to know how to remove a rook piercing barbell, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the safe process step-by-step, whether you’re changing jewelry or dealing with an issue.
Removing this type of cartilage piercing yourself is possible, but it requires care and the right tools. Rook piercings can be tricky due to their location and the angle of the jewelry. Rushing the process can lead to irritation or injury, so patience is key.
How to Remove Rook Piercing Barbell
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need and that your hands and the area are clean. Here’s what you’ll want to gather.
What You’ll Need
- Clean, disposable gloves (nitrile is best)
- Antibacterial soap
- Sterile saline solution
- Clean paper towels
- A mirror with good lighting
- If the jewelry is threaded, steady hands (and maybe a friend)
Step-by-Step Removal Process
Follow these steps carefully to avoid hurting yourself or damaging the piercing channel.
1. Wash Your Hands and Set Up
First, thoroughly wash your hands with antibacterial soap. Dry them with a clean paper towel. Put on your clean gloves to maintain hygiene. Set up your mirror so you can see the piercing clearly.
2. Clean the Piercing Area
Gently clean around the rook piercing with sterile saline on a paper towel. This removes any crusties that might get in the way. Don’t twist the jewelry aggressively to clean it, as this can irritate the skin.
3. Identify the Jewelry Type
Most rook barbells are internally threaded (the ball screws into the bar) or threadless (the end pushes in). Feel the ends; if one ball has a smooth post, it’s threadless. If you feel ridges, it’s threaded. This is crucial for knowing how to take it apart.
4. Removing a Threaded Barbell
Hold the straight part of the barbell firmly between the fingers of one hand. With your other hand, grip the ball end and twist it counter-clockwise. It might be tight, so apply steady pressure. If it won’t budge, try using a piece of latex glove for a better grip. Don’t force it.
5. Removing a Threadless Barbell
Hold the barbell shaft steady. For threadless jewelry, you need to pull the decorative end straight off. Grip the ball and the bar, and gently but firmly pull them apart in a straight motion. A slight bending of the pin releases it.
6. Slide the Jewelry Out
Once one end is removed, you can carefully slide the barbell out of the piercing hole. Go slowly to avoid snagging. If you feel major resistance, stop. The piercing might not be fully healed or could be angled.
7. Aftercare Post-Removal
After the jewelry is out, clean the area again with saline solution. Pat it dry. If you aren’t putting in new jewelry, continue to keep the area clean and dry as it may close quickly.
Common Problems and Solutions
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here’s what to do if you encounter these common issues.
- The ball won’t unscrew: This is very common. Ensure you’re turning it the right way (lefty-loosey). Use rubber gloves for grip. If it’s really stuck, a visit to your piercer is the safest option.
- You can’t see or reach it well: Ask a trusted friend for help or use two mirrors. Trying to do it blindly can cause damage.
- There’s swelling or pain: If the area is sore, apply a cold compress around (not on) the ear to reduce swelling first. If there’s signs of infection like pus or severe redness, do not remove the jewelry and consult a doctor.
When to See a Professional
It’s always okay to seek help. You should definitly go to your piercer if:
- The jewelry is stuck and won’t move with gentle effort.
- You experience sharp pain or bleeding during attempted removal.
- The piercing is relatively new (less than 9-12 months old).
- You feel unsure or uncomfortable doing it yourself at all.
Piercers remove jewelry all the time and can do it quickly and safely. It’s often worth the small fee they might charge.
After Removal: Jewelry Change or Retirement
Inserting New Jewelry
If you’re putting in a new barbell, make sure it’s sterilized. Lubricate it slightly with a drop of saline or pure water-based lubricant. Gently guide it through the hole from the back to front, following the angle of the original piercing. Secure the end carefully.
Letting the Piercing Close
If you’re retiring the piercing, keep up with cleaning for a few weeks as the hole closes. Massage the area with a bit of vitamin E oil (once the hole is fully closed) can help minimize scarring. Be aware that cartilage piercings can leave a small permanent bump.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove my rook piercing myself?
Yes, you can if it’s fully healed and you have the right tools. But if you have any doubt, visiting a piercer is the best and safest choice. They have the experience to handle tricky situations.
How do I know if my rook piercing is healed enough to remove?
A fully healed rook piercing (usually after 9-12 months) will not be tender, red, or swollen. It shouldn’t produce any fluid or crusties. If it acts up occasionally, it might not be ready.
What if the rook piercing barbell is stuck?
First, don’t panic. Ensure your hands are dry and use a rubber grip. If it’s truly stuck, forcing it can injure your ear. Stop and schedule a visit with your piercer for assistance. They have specialized tools.
Will the hole close immediately after I take it out?
It can close very quickly, especially if it’s a newer piercing. Even old piercings can shrink within hours or days. If you want to keep the hole open, you need to insert new jewelry immediately.
Is it painful to remove the barbell?
Removal shouldn’t be painful if the piercing is fully healed. You might feel some pressure or slight discomfort, especially if the jewelry is tight. Sharp pain is a sign to stop and reassess.
Remember, taking your time is the most important part of learning how to remove a rook piercing barbell. Hurrying can lead to mistakes and set back your healing. When in dout, professional help is just a quick trip away.