Why Do My Earrings Leave Black?

The reason for the blackish discoloration and smell on your earrings is oxidation or tarnishing. This happens when your earring is exposed to air, moisture, and other elements that cause a chemical reaction with the metal. Over time, this build-up of tarnish will darken or discolor the surface of your earrings.

Why are my earring holes turning black?

The cause of a gray or black piercing hole is usually jewelry made with improper or inferior metals that turn your skin black, gray, bluish-gray, or grayish-black in color. "Argyria" is the proper term for this condition caused by exposure to silver or silver compounds.

What is the black stuff on my earring?

"Earring posts can accumulate retained skin oils that help yeast, fungus, and bacteria overgrow," explains Ciraldo. You might think a simple shampoo in the shower is enough to wash away that gunk, but even leftover hair products can build up around the earring post and accumulate in and around that tiny earring hole.