I frequently see this question (and its subsequent lamenting) on a multitude of social media forums, so I thought it would be helpful to share my typical advice. Posted from Facebook:

Amazon link for the pillow I recommended above:

BLISSBURY Ear Pillow with Ear Hole for Sleeping with Sore Ear Pain | Ear Piercing Pillow | Adjustable Memory Foam Pillow with Holes for chondrodermatitis CNH | Piercing Pillow for Side Sleepers https://a.co/d/iE2AVQh

Amazon link for my favorite piercing oil*:

Alteya Organics Piercing Aftercare - USDA Certified Organic Vegan Piercing Oil - 0.5 Fl Oz/15mL https://a.co/d/bhF7TBj

*If you've seen my previous blog post (Kitty in a Frying Pan), you'll know my skin issues are numerous, and this oil did not make me break out or cause an allergic reaction—a rare feat all on its own. I used this oil on my newest piercing (hidden helix cartilage) that had been healing for about four weeks, but it got pissed off when I snagged it on my loupes at work and started to form a small bump. It worked FAST and calmed down my irritated piercing in less than 24 hours. Frankly, I was shocked at how much better it looked and felt, and the piercing was 100% healed after a week. I was even able to change the jewelry without incident (to a shorter one with the help of a guide), which is unheard of for a cartilage piercing at that age. Highly recommend.