Pamela White
The infliction of helix piercing, over the years, has become very popular among many people because it offers a different approach how to beautify one’s ears.
A helix piercing that is situated on the upper cartilage of the ear not only gives a clean look but also brings out a certain character, which is made more attractive by wearing different jewelry on it.
This guide provides a complete picture of how one can get a helix piercing, including the care and the jewelry options, among others.
What is a Helix Piercing?
Any piercing that is placed in the upper cartilage of the ear is called helix piercing. For example, a standard earlobe piercing passes through soft tissue to the lower edge of the ear, unlike helix piercing, which cuts through the cartilage and is tougher.
This is what gives the piercing the outline of where it normally sits on the ear and also influences the type of jewel that can be used as well as the care that has to be given.
Types of Helix Piercing
There are so many Helix piercing types, pierced with the helix ring of different degrees and proportionately yielding more aesthetic appeal than others.
- Standard Helix Piercing: This is the most common form of helix piercing and how it appears on the right above the ear, where the cartilage meets the soft tissue. At the top outer edge of the lobe piercing there is no marginal rim; it is also the easiest piercing in terms of what pieces of jewelry can be used on it.
- Double or Triple Helix Piercing: These are self-explanatory how many piercings they contain; that is, two to three will be placed in one or the other manner in a row on the upper cartilage. They are usually complemented with the same or similar ornaments for a proper styling.
- Forward Helix Piercing: Situated at the upper cartilage more towards the face, the forward helix is different from regular positioning. It is also common to have multiple forward helix piercings.
- Industrial Piercing: It contains a pair of helix piercings united by means of one piece of jewelry, which is usually a long barbell.
- Orbital Helix Piercing: The orbital consists of two helices in the form of a simple ring that passes through both holes of the helix. The ring is passed through two holes and comes out in the short hole.
The Helix Piercing Procedure
When it comes to the helix piercing, the procedure is very easy; however, the only difference is that it involves the cartilage. Here’s what to expect:
- Choosing a Piercer: You should always consider getting a professional piercer to perform the procedure of these types of piercings and especially on cartilage. Seek out several studios in your locality and check the reviews and portfolios of their work.
- Sterilization: In order to reduce the chances of an infection, the surgeon will first clean and sterilize the area surrounding the procedure before any of the actions are taken. They will also use sterilized equipment in order to carry out the procedure safely.
- Marking the Spot: The piercer will use a pen or any other easily removable or colorable tool.
- Piercing the Cartilage: For this part, the piercer will use a hollow needle and forceps or clamp to create a tiny hole at the marked spot on the ear. Instead of piercing guns that damage the ear cartilage due to clothes, a needle puncture is more or less neat and safer.
- Inserting Jewelry: Once the hole is made, the piercer places the first jewelry, which is a stud or a small round circle, through hypoallergenic metals like titanium, surgical steel, or even gold.
Pain and Healing Process
Pain is subjective and varies from person to person, but helix piercings are generally considered to be moderately painful. The cartilage is tougher than the earlobe, so you can expect a sharp pinch followed by a dull ache. The pain is usually brief, lasting only a few seconds.
Healing Time: Helix piercings take longer to heal compared to lobe piercings because of the existence of cartilage. In most cases, healing can take between 3 and 6 months. Full healing can take longer than this, especially for a few selective individuals who heal for up to a year.
Aftercare Tips
- Clean Twice Daily: Use a saline solution or a piercing aftercare spray to clean the area twice a day. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can irritate the piercing.
- Avoid Touching: Keep your hands away from the piercing to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria.
- Sleep on the Other Side: To avoid irritating the piercing, try to sleep on the opposite side until the area has healed.
- Avoid Submersion: Keep your piercing dry and avoid submersion in pools, hot tubs, or the ocean, as these can introduce harmful bacteria.
Jewelry Options for Helix Piercing
One of the most interesting things that people find when they get a helix piercing is the number of jewelry items available. And if you want minimalist or more elegant, there’s something to suit every style.
- Studs: Small and subtle, studs are a popular choice for helix piercings, especially during the healing process. They come in various designs, from simple metal balls to gemstones and intricate shapes.
- Hoops: Hoops add a bold touch to the helix piercing and are available in different sizes and materials. Continuous rings, segment rings, and clickers are popular options that offer a sleek and seamless look.
- Barbells: Straight or curved barbells are often used for double, triple, or industrial helix piercings. They can feature decorative ends, such as spikes, balls, or gems, allowing for personalization.
- Captive Bead Rings: These rings are versatile and can be worn in standard, forward, or orbital helix piercings. The beads in the center are held in place by the tension of the ring, giving it a distinctive appearance.
- Cuffs: For those who want the look of a helix piercing without committing to the needle, ear cuffs can be worn on the upper cartilage without the need for a piercing. They are adjustable and come in various styles.
Conclusion
Given that several options are available in both piercing types and Helix jewelry used, you are at liberty to modify your piercing for your liking or drastically alter yourself in a short period of time. When handled with proper care, the helix piercing is a pretty and permanent addition to your mode of dressing.
