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If you get your ears pierced, you need to ensure its cleanliness in order to protect it against infection, according to an expert. 

"It's important to remember that pierced skin is skin that has been wounded, leaving it vulnerable to infection," Dr. Elizabeth Martin, a dermatologist in Hoover, Ala., said in an American Academy of Dermatology news release.

"To minimize the risks, always go to a trained professional for piercing, use hypoallergenic earrings and keep your newly pierced ears clean," she advised.

She advised to wash hands before touching the newly pierced ears. She also suggested that one should wash ears with soap and water at least once a day. 

Martin recommended to use a cotton ball or pad in alcohol to gently clean the skin around the piercings twice a day. This should protect against germs and prevent scabbing. A thin coat of petroleum jelly around the piercings may also be beneficial, she added. 

You should leave starter earrings in your ears for six weeks or more, even at night. Your piercings may close if you remove the earrings too soon, Martin said. Twist the earrings a few times a day to help keep the pierced holes open.

"After piercing your ears, keep an eye on them. If they become very tender, red or if the holes ooze yellowish liquid, see a board-certified dermatologist, as you may have an infection," Martin said.

Learn more about body piercing from The American Academy of Family Physicians.