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If you’ve already built up your collection of lobe piercings, or are just tired of classic lobes and looking for original ear locations for your piercings, we know you already have your eyes on cartilage piercings.
Cartilage piercings involve perforating the stiffer parts of your ears; this is why they require more attention and consideration before deciding on one. Popular options include the classic and forward helix, the inner conch, the ear-canal-adjacent tragus and the striking industrial piercing.
But let’s take a closer look at how each piercing works, how long it takes to heal and the best aftercare practices.
The Most Popular: The Helix and Forward Helix
The helix and the forward helix are two of the most popular piercings. The standard one sits on the outer rim of the ear, whereas the forward one sits on the front cartilage ridge, closest to your face and just above the tragus.
While the classic helix is more versatile and suits both single and double configurations, the forward helix is highly anatomy-dependent and is feasible only on a well-defined ridge.
Helix Style and Jewellery
Traditional helixes work well with simple hoops and more detailed ones, and once healed, you can also opt for some studs.
A forward helix, instead, works well with studs. As a general rule, the forward helix is a more delicate area; hoops or pendant earrings should be avoided, as they can easily injure your ear.
Healing time and aftercare
Both piercings take between 6 and 12 months to heal completely. Having more than one piercing at the same time can extend the healing process, so always follow the aftercare advice provided by your professional piercer.
Once done, make sure you don’t sleep directly on your piercing. Wash and brush your hair with care, and clean it 1-2 times per day.
The Inner Ones: Tragus and Conch
The tragus piercing is set on the small piece of cartilage coming from inside the ear. If you are thinking about where the name comes from, it is from the Greek word for goat, as hair grows on this part that looks like a goat’s beard.
The conch piercing is located in the cup-shaped section of the ear and is called that because it resembles a conch shell. There are two types of conch piercings, depending on their placement: inner and outer.
Tragus and Conch Style and Jewellery
Tragus earrings are very versatile and comfortable for both studs and rings, as it is not too exposed an area of the ear. On the contrary, it is well protected and shielded from knocks and snags, and it’s less likely to get caught while brushing your hair.
The conch works well with snug hoops after healing and suits both larger and smaller ears, depending on your ear size. Make sure you wear a stud for the entire healing period, as it’s a thick piece of cartilage that takes longer to heal properly and needs something stable and non-moving, like a stud.
Healing time and aftercare
Healing time varies from person to person. Tragus and conch piercings take 6 to 12 months to fully heal; more specifically, tragus piercings require 8 to 12 months. Thicker cartilage piercings can require extra care, particularly if you have sensitive skin.
Make sure you avoid sleeping on the pierced side and avoid twisting or moving the jewellery unnecessarily. Follow your piercer’s cleaning and aftercare instructions, and avoid in-ear earphones or earplugs while the piercing heals.
The Striking One: The Industrial Piercing
An industrial piercing consists of two cartilage piercings connected by a single piece of jewellery. The most common one is a longer barbell that links the traditional helix to the forward one.
Industrial piercing style and jewellery
The industrial piercing is more delicate than others because it involves healing two piercings at once in the same area; thus, unlike other piercings, you don’t have that much freedom with it: it’s usually a diagonal metal bar.
As for the material, make sure your initial jewellery is made from implant-grade titanium and has a standard thickness of 1.6 mm. If your anatomy doesn’t fit a standard bar, your piercer can create a customised one.
Healing time and aftercare
Healing time is 6 to 12 months as well, but it requires a bit more care, as it is more delicate than others. Specifically, it’s recommended not to sleep on the pierced side, as it might shift the piercing and injure your ear.
Clean it twice a day, avoid using over-the-ear headphones, and do not twist or turn your earring.
Which Cartilage Piercing Is Best for Me?
The best cartilage piercing for you really depends on your daily habits and anatomy. Your cartilage space, especially for the tragus and helix, must be large enough to allow a hole to be placed.
Make sure you understand how to care for your new piercing and follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer. Once you’ve found the piercing that suits your anatomy and lifestyle, you can have some fun choosing jewellery that makes your new look feel completely your own.