How to Safely Open and Close Your Piercing Rings

Changing piercing jewelry can be tricky. One wrong move and you’re Googling “how to rescue a bead from the bathroom sink”. But don’t worry, we’ve got you! This guide walks you through how to open and close piercing rings safely and confidently; no guesswork, pliers (okay, maybe sometimes), or panic necessary.

Whether you’re figuring it out in your bathroom mirror or procrastinating for the third day in a row, consider this your official cheat sheet.

The Three Golden Rules Before You Start

Rule 1: Make sure your piercing is healed

If your piercing is still healing, changing jewelry can cause irritation, infection, or even rejection. Always wait until your piercer gives you the green light.

Rule 2: Clean it like you mean it

Before you even think about opening a ring:

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
• Clean the jewelry using a mild, non-alcohol-based soap, or saline solution.
• (Optional but empowering) Lay out everything on a clean towel and channel your inner demure queen.

Rule 3 (if you may): Bring in the tools

For thicker rings, it’s best not to rely on finger strength alone. Opening and closing pliers will make the job easier and a lot less frustrating.

How to Open & Close Different Rings (Step-by-Step)

Let’s get into it. These are the ring types that make most people freeze mid-attempt. We’re talking about captive bead, segment, and seamless. And then there’s the easiest of them all: the legendary clicker!

Captive Bead Rings (CBRs)

Great look, but a little more finicky. If you’ve ever Googled how to change a captive bead ring, you’re not alone.

What are they? A metal ring with a bead held in place by the ring’s tension. The bead usually has small dimples or a marked groove that sits snugly into the ends of the ring.

To open:

1. Lay down a clean towel on your surface, beads love disappearing into the void.
2. Hold the ring firmly in one hand.
3. Use your other hand to gently pull the bead away from the ring. The tension should release the bead, and it should pop right out. No Hulk strength is required, just a steady grip and a bit of confidence.
4. For thicker rings, follow Rule 3. You’ll need ring-opening pliers. Place the pliers inside the ring and gently expand it to release the bead.

To close:

1. Slot one end of the ring into the bead. You’ll notice a tiny groove or dimple designed to hold it in place.
2. Hold the ring steady and push the other end into the bead until it fits snugly.
3. The tension should hold it in place. Give it a gentle nudge to make sure it’s secure.
4. For thicker rings, use ring-opening pliers again to gently create just enough space to insert the bead. Don’t exaggerate the pressure or over-stretch the ring. Once the bead is in, release the pliers and let the ring naturally spring back to hold it securely.

Tips:

• A little natural light can make a big difference.

Segment Rings

Looks like a seamless ring, but works more like a puzzle piece. If you’ve ever tried to open one and thought, “Where does this thing even come apart?”, welcome to the club.

What are they? A smooth ring with a small removable segment that blends in perfectly with the rest of the ring.

To open:

1. Look closely for the two fine lines where the segment meets the ring (one on each side). That’s your cue: the segment is fully detachable.
2. Use your fingernail or a soft tool to gently push or lift the segment out.
3. Set the segment aside somewhere safe, not directly over your sink.
4. For thicker segment rings, follow Rule 3. Use ring-opening pliers to gently widen the ring and release the segment.

To close:

1. Align the segment back with the opening in the ring.
2. Press it gently into place until it sits flush.
3. Give it a teeny nudge, it should feel secure and not wobble.
4. For thicker segment rings, use ring-opening pliers again to create just enough space to insert the segment. Don’t exaggerate the pressure or over-stretch the ring. Once the segment is in place, release the pliers and let the ring naturally spring back to secure it.

Seamless Rings

The minimalist’s dream: clean, simple, and no extra parts to drop. But figuring out how to open a seamless ring style? That’s where things get a little…twisty.

What are they? A sleek ring with a tiny slit that gives the illusion of a perfect, continuous circle. No beads, no hinges, just vibes.

To open:

1. Grab each side of the ring, one with each hand.
2. Twist the ends away from each other in opposite directions. Don’t pull them apart, that’s a one-way ticket to a bent ring.

To close:

1. Twist the ends back into alignment.
2. Push them gently until they sit flush again.

Tips:

• Pulling = Bad. Twisting = Good. It keeps the shape intact.
• These can be a little tricky the first time, so don’t stress if it takes a few tries. Deep breath. You got this.

Hinged Rings (Clickers)

This clicker hoop earring is the queen of pop in the piercing world. Effortless, secure, and always in style

What are they? A chic ring with a built-in hinge that swings open and shut, usually with a satisfying little click. Easy, breezy, beautiful…no drama here.

To open:

1. Find the tiny hinge; it’s a slim line where the ring opens and closes.
2. Gently grip the hinged piece (use your fingers or rubber-tipped pliers if it’s feeling slippery).
3. Lift it upward or outward, and it should open smoothly without resistance.

To close:

1. Guide the hinge back into its groove.
2. Press until you hear or feel a click. Done.

Tips:

• No twisting. Just open, insert, click shut.
• If it doesn’t click, don’t force it. Realign and try again.

Pro tip: Want easy? Clicker rings are where it’s at. They’re beginner-friendly, low-maintenance, and come in more styles than your jewelry box can probably handle.

Whether you’re clicking shut your new favorite hoop or chasing a runaway bead across the floor (hey, it happens), remember: you’re not alone in this.

Still feeling unsure? That’s okay, take your time. Bookmark this guide and come back when you’re ready. And when in doubt, your trusted piercer is just one visit away…or feel free to reach out to us at Bodymod. We’ve got you!

Feeling ready to show off your new skills? Go on, find your next favorite piercing rings here. You’ve earned it.