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Flat back earrings are a popular choice for piercings because they’re comfortable, secure, and sit flush against the skin. Unlike regular butterfly-back earrings, these are designed with a flat disc at the back, which makes them ideal for sleeping and daily wear. However, removing them can be a bit tricky if you’re not familiar with how they work. It's important to know which type you’re wearing so you can take them out safely without causing discomfort or damaging your piercing.
Types of Flat Back Earrings
There are two types of flat back earrings, and each comes with a different mechanism to remove them. These are commonly used for cartilage, tragus, helix, and even lobe piercings because they sit flat against the skin, making them more comfortable. But removing them can be a little tricky if you’re not familiar with how each type works. Let’s go over both.
1. Threaded (Screw-On) Flat Backs
These earrings have a post with tiny threads, like a screw. The decorative front part twists on to the post, which means the back stays flat against your skin while the front is what you turn to put it on or take it off. This type of earring is very secure, which is great for healing piercings or daily wear. But it can also be tricky to remove, especially the first time.
How to Remove Threaded (Screw-On) Flat Back Earrings?
1. Hold the flat back firmly between your fingers
Start by gently gripping the flat disc on the back of your earring. This piece will stay still while you twist the front. Use your thumb and index finger to hold it steady. You want to make sure it doesn’t move around while you work on the front.
2. Gently twist the front piece counterclockwise
Now, take your other hand and grip the decorative front of the earring. Begin to twist it to the left (that’s counterclockwise). It might feel tight at first, especially if it hasn’t been removed in a while, but keep applying gentle and steady pressure.
3. Continue unscrewing until the front comes off
As you keep turning, you’ll notice the front slowly starts to loosen. Keep twisting until it completely unscrews from the post. Be careful not to drop the small piece once it’s loose — these tiny parts are easy to lose.
4. Gently slide the post out of your piercing
Once the front is off, hold the flat back again and gently pull the post out from the back of your ear. It should slide out easily. If you feel resistance, give it a small wiggle but never force it.
After removal, place the earring pieces somewhere safe if you plan to reuse them.
2. Push-Pin (Press-Fit) Flat Backs
Push-pin flat backs work a little differently. Instead of twisting, this type has a straight post with a small bendable pin that fits snugly into a hollow shaft. The back of the earring stays flat, and the front decorative piece pushes in tightly to hold everything together. These earrings are popular because they’re simple to use once you get the hang of them.
How to Remove Push-Pin (Press-Fit) Flat Back Earrings?
1. Hold the flat back gently in place
Just like with threaded earrings, begin by using your fingers to hold the flat disc at the back of your ear. Keep it steady and avoid pressing it too hard into your skin.
2. Grab the front piece and pull it straight out
Using your other hand, pinch the front part of the earring and begin to gently pull it straight forward, away from your ear. You may need to give it a tiny twist back and forth to loosen it first, but don’t spin it like a screw. It’s more like removing a pin from a socket.
3. Apply firm but gentle pressure while pulling
These earrings are designed to fit very snugly, so they might need a little more force than expected. Just make sure you’re pulling in a straight line and keeping the back still as you work the front piece out.
4. Once the front is off, slide the post out
After the front part pops out, gently grip the flat back again and pull the post out from the back of your ear. It should slide out smoothly without much resistance.
After removal, make sure you keep the parts together so you don’t lose that tiny pin.
No matter which type of flat back earring you have, always make sure your hands are clean before and after handling your piercing. It’s important for preventing any irritation or infection, especially if your piercing is still healing. After removal, gently clean the area with a saline solution or your usual aftercare routine. This helps keep the piercing healthy and ready for your next piece of jewelry.
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If you’re looking for high-quality flat back earrings that combine comfort, style, and durability, then you should definitely check out Erica Jewels. Our collection features beautifully crafted, hypoallergenic flat back studs made from premium materials like 18K-plated titanium and sparkling cubic zirconia. Designed for all-day wear, even while sleeping, these earrings are perfect for anyone with sensitive ears or a love for low-maintenance jewelry. With their secure push-pin backs, tarnish-resistant finish, and elegant designs, Erica Jewels offers the perfect balance of function and fashion for everyday wear.
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