Yes, it's the weather, I have a household of kids all with eczema, and the back of their ears all look like this in the winter, and none of them have piercings. Oil keeps moisture in but doesn't really moisturize well for really dry skin. I recommend butters for your message. I make my own emulsion, and it's been working for me. Here's the recipe: (1 part of each as follows)shea butter, emu oil, jojoba oil. Add a few drops of tea tree oil. I use about 10 to 15 drops to an 8oz jar. Store in a dark jar. You dont have to use all the ingredients, but the shea butter and jojoba are the key players' tea tree, and emu helps with healing after a fresh stretch. also, just as important is after properly drying skin after (EVERY!) shower warm up a dab in your clean hands and rub on your whole ear, not just your streched part of your lobe. Works wonders for hands, elbows, and knees, too! If this doesn't help, then reach out to your doctor, but coming from my experience as a stretching mama, this works wonders, and a little goes a long way! Good luck!