The only things I want to get from my earrings are compliments—not itching, irritation, and redness. But the harsh reality is that so many of us (myself included) have ear sensitivity. And the culprit, according to Dr. Peterson Pierre of the Pierre Skin Care Institute, is typically nickel. Unfortunately, metals containing nickel show up in a lot of jewelry—which can make it seem like earrings for sensitive ears don’t even exist.
Good news, though: They totally do! All you gotta look for are earrings that feature certain hypoallergenic materials. Jim Kelly, the Manager of Piercing Training at Piercing Pagoda (!), recommends opting for gold (specifically 14k and up) or titanium as a first choice. You’re likely also safe with a sterling silver pick if that’s more your jam. Ultimately, the key is to make sure you’re avoiding nickel and other metals—even if they’re plated or filled with something else.
Another tip? Try flat-back earrings to reduce irritation in fresh piercings or extra-sensitive ears. Trisha Okubo, the Founder of Maison Miru, reminds Cosmo that a flat back is also less likely to snag on your clothes or hair—which is definitely a major win for everyone.
But I know that finding the perfect pair of earrings to add to your jewelry collection is difficult enough without having to worry about irritation. And frankly, who has time to sift through dozens of jewelry brands to find the absolute best earrings for sensitive ears? Okay, turns out I do. (You’re welcome, babes.) So without further ado, here are 17 seriously gorg earring picks to try ASAP.
1
these french rope hoops
Hope
Aureum
aureumcollective.com
$192.00
I can totally picture someone (read: myself) wearing these while sipping a cappuccino at a chic Parisian cafe. The vibes are too good!
2
these dainty bbs
Mini Nora Pearl Hoops
Amarilo Jewelry
amarilojewelry.com
$210.00
FYI, the little pearls on these hoops can actually be removed for a more minimalist look. (But honestly, they’re too cute to ditch.)
3
these sparkling beauties
EMILIA CZ HOOP EARRINGS
Just because you have sensitive ears doesn’t mean you can’t rock a statement earring—and these are begging to be worn on your next date night.
4
These Cute Lil Pearls
Pearl Earring
Automic Gold
automicgold.com
$79.00
Made with recycled gold, these pearl studs definitely deserve a spot in your jewelry box.
5
This Cherry Huggie
Mixer Huggie Hoop Single Earring
Madewell
nordstrom.com
$4.80
Hey, tooty fruity. This adorable cherry huggie would look so good as a solo earring or as a pair.
6
This Pave Moon Stud
Pave Moon Threaded Flat Back Earring
Maison Miru
maisonmiru.com
$39.00
With a flat back, this titanium pave moon stud was actually designed to be used by those with sensitive ears or fresh piercings.
7
These Convertible Gold Earrings
Trill 2-way 18k Gold Vermeil Earring Jackets
Sonia Hou
soniahou.com
$49.99
Wear these geometric earrings two different ways: as a minimalist stud or an earring jacket. It’s hard not to love a versatile look!
8
These Sparkly Studs
4mm Princess-Cut Cubic Zirconia Frame Stud Earrings in 14K Gold
Piercing Pagoda
pagoda.com
$119.99
These pair well with anything—from a ballgown to your cutest sweatsuit. Just throw ‘em on whenever you want a little glam.
9
These Croissant Dome Hoops
Croissant Dôme Hoops
Chunky gold hoops inspired by the shape of croissants? Wow, nothing is more perfect to me.
10
These Mismatched Dangly Hoops
Luna Hoops
Bebe Rouge
bebe-rouge.com
$52.00
Okay, name something cuter than freshwater pearls in the shape of a star. No, seriously. I’ll wait.
11
These Evil Eye Studs
Evil Eye Studs in Sterling Silver
Maison Miru
maisonmiru.com
$69.00
Now when I tell someone I’m always watching, they’ll know I’m serious.
12
These Luxe Diamond Hoops
Pave Diamond Hoops
The Clear Cut
theclearcut.co
$1,275.00
If you reallyyy feel like treating yourself, this pair of diamond hoops is a perfect choice.
13
These Chic Square Studs
14kt Yellow Gold Mini Square Stud
Mateo
mateonewyork.com
$250.00
Simple, chic, timeless—you can’t go wrong with these gold studs. This is the type of earring that’s so easy to wear every single day.
14
These Woven Gold Huggies
Monica Vinader x Doina Woven Huggie Hoop Earrings
MONICA VINADER
nordstrom.com
$85.00
For fans of sterling silver, look no further. These chunky huggies are bound to become a staple in your jewelry collection. You can also add on some chic, lil charms, like this jade pair, here.
15
These Big Pearl Hoops
Bold Pearl Hoop Earrings
Freshwater pearls are so in right now—and there are plenty of picks for those with sensitive ears. Case in point: these statement-making pearl hoops.
16
these adorable bits
POP DROP EARRING
BonBonWhims
bonbonwhims.com
$46.00
These fun earrings are too cute to pass up. Just asking Kylie Jenner.
17
These Classic Everyday Studs
6mm Cubic Zirconia Solitaire Stud Earrings in 14K Gold
Piercing Pagoda
pagoda.com
$79.99
Cubic zirconia jewelry is a girl’s best friend. It’s just as sparkly as diamonds but much more cost-effective. Budget queens, go off.
Maggie Griswold
Maggie Griswold is a fashion and lifestyle writer, interior design enthusiast, and lover of Shakespeare who currently resides in sunny Los Angeles—where she constantly wishes it were colder.
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