(HealthDay News) -- Caring for pierced ears can help keep the piercings clean and prevent infection.

Here is advice from the American Academy of Dermatologists:

• Never touch newly pierced ears without first washing your hands.
• Don't remove your first pair of earrings for at least six weeks. This helps the holes stay open. A few times each day, gently twist earrings around in your ears.
• At least once per day, wash ears carefully with water and soap.
• Clean piercings twice daily with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab. Apply a bit of petroleum jelly afterward.
• See a dermatologist if your ears become swollen, red or puffy.