Helix Piercing: A Definitive Guide to Stylish Cartilage Earrings and Aftercare
Helix Piercing: A Definitive Guide to Stylish Cartilage Earrings and Aftercare
Helix piercing is a popular form of ear piercing that involves the cartilage of the upper ear. If you’ve been thinking about getting a helix piercing, you might be wondering what it is exactly and what benefits it offers.
Helix piercing can be a unique and stylish way to enhance your overall appearance. It can be a fun way to express yourself while also adding a touch of elegance and edginess to your look. With the variety of types and jewelry available, there’s no limit to what you can do with a helix piercing.
In this post, we’ll be exploring some of the best helix piercing types and jewelry to suit every style and occasion.
What is a Helix Piercing?
If you are looking to add a trendy and stylish touch to your look, you might want to consider getting a helix piercing. So what is helix piercing ? It’s a piercing that is done on the upper cartilage of the ear. It can be done on one or both sides of the ear and can be adorned with a wide range of jewelry options.
The helix piercing has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it is easy to see why. This piercing is both fashionable and versatile, and it can be customized to fit anyone’s unique style. Whether you want a simple and understated piercing or a bold and statement-making one, there is a helix piercing type and jewelry option that will work for you.
In addition to its style factor, a helix piercing is also relatively easy to care for and can heal relatively quickly, especially if you follow the proper aftercare instructions. However, it is important to note that everyone’s healing process can differ, so it is crucial to pay close attention to your body’s signals and listen to your piercer’s advice.
Overall, a helix piercing is a fantastic way to add a fun and edgy touch to your look. Whether you’re getting it done for the first time or you’re a seasoned piercing pro, this type of piercing is sure to turn heads and make you feel more confident and stylish than ever before.
Types of Helix Piercings
When it comes to helix piercings, there are several types to choose from. Each one offers its own unique look and placement, so it’s important to do your research before committing to one.
1. Single Helix Piercing
This is the most common type of helix piercing, and it involves a single hole through the upper cartilage of the ear. It’s a simple and classic option that can be dressed up or down with the right jewelry.
2. Double Helix Piercing
A double helix piercing involves two holes placed in the upper cartilage of the ear. It creates a more dynamic look than a single helix piercing, and can be paired with a variety of different earrings.
3. Triple Helix Piercing
For a more intricate and statement-making look, consider a triple helix piercing. It involves three holes placed in a row on the upper cartilage of the ear, and can be a great way to show off multiple earrings.
4. Forward Helix Piercing
Unlike the other helix piercings, a forward helix piercing is placed on the front of the ear. It involves a single hole through the cartilage near the top of the ear, and can be a great option for those who want a more subtle piercing.
5. Industrial Piercing
This is a bold and unique piercing that involves two holes connected by a barbell. The holes are usually placed in the upper cartilage of the ear, with one near the helix and one near the forward helix.
Ultimately, the type of helix piercing you choose will depend on your personal style and the look you’re going for. It’s always best to consult with a professional piercer to determine which type of helix piercing is right for you.
Top Tips - Choosing the Right Jewelry for Your Helix Piercing
Once you’ve got your helix piercing, it’s time to choose the perfect jewelry to complement your style and personality. There are several factors to consider when selecting helix piercing jewelry, including material, size, and style. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
1. Material: The material of your helix piercing jewelry is crucial for preventing irritation or infections. It’s best to opt for hypoallergenic materials like titanium, surgical steel, or gold. Avoid cheap or low-quality metals that can cause skin irritation and allergies.
2. Size: The size of your helix piercing jewelry depends on the placement of your piercing and your personal preference. For initial piercing, it’s advisable to choose a larger gauge, like 16 or 18, and then switch to smaller gauges as the piercing heals. Be sure to measure the thickness of your helix before purchasing jewelry to ensure a perfect fit.
3. Style: There are various styles of helix piercing jewelry to choose from, including studs, hoops, barbells, and captive bead rings. Your choice will depend on the occasion and your personal taste.
For everyday wear, simple studs or hoops in a classic metal color like silver or gold are timeless choices. For a more edgy or trendy look, you can opt for a variety of colors or embellishments like diamonds, pearls, or charms.
4. Match with Your Style: Ultimately, the jewelry you choose should match your style and personality. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of jewelry until you find the perfect match. Whether you prefer simple or statement pieces, there’s a helix piercing jewelry option for every style and occasion.
Choosing the right jewelry for your helix piercing is essential for comfort, safety, and style. Always prioritize hypoallergenic materials, proper sizing, and a style that suits your personality. With the right helix piercing jewelry, you can rock any look with confidence.
Popular Helix Piercing Trends and Styles
Helix piercings have been a popular choice for body modifications for years. While there are classic and timeless styles, there are also some popular trends that have emerged in recent years.
1. Multiple Helix Piercings: This trend involves having two or more helix piercings in close proximity to each other. They can be arranged in a line or cluster, and are usually done on the upper part of the ear.
2. Hoops and Cuffs: Hoops and cuffs are popular options for helix piercings. They come in a variety of styles and sizes, from small and delicate to bold and chunky. They can be worn individually or layered for a more dramatic effect.
3. Cartilage Earrings: These earrings are designed specifically for cartilage piercings, including helix piercings. They are usually made from hypoallergenic materials like titanium or surgical steel, and come in a variety of styles, from simple studs to elaborate dangle earrings.
4. Celestial Themes: Stars, moons, and other celestial motifs have been trending in the world of jewelry for some time now. It’s no surprise that this trend has made its way to helix piercings. You can find celestial-themed helix jewelry in a variety of styles, from minimalistic to ornate.
5. Industrial Piercings: While not technically a helix piercing, the industrial piercing involves two holes that are connected by a single piece of jewelry. This piercing has become increasingly popular in recent years, and can be done on the upper part of the ear where helix piercings are typically placed.
No matter what your personal style is, there’s a helix piercing trend or style that will suit you. It’s always important to consult with a professional piercer to discuss your options and choose jewelry that fits both your style and your piercing’s needs.
How to Care for Your Helix Piercing
After getting your helix piercing, it’s important to properly care for it to ensure it heals well and avoids any complications. Follow these steps to take care of your new piercing:
- Clean your piercing daily with saline solution. Use a cotton swab to gently clean around the piercing, and avoid using any harsh soaps or cleaning solutions.
- Avoid touching or twisting your jewelry. Only handle your jewelry when cleaning it, and don't play with it or move it around unnecessarily.
- Don't change your jewelry too soon. Wait at least 4-6 months before changing your initial jewelry to allow your piercing to fully heal.
- Avoid sleeping on your pierced ear. Try to sleep on the opposite side to avoid putting pressure on the piercing.
- Keep your hair away from your piercing. Tie up long hair or wear a hat or headband to avoid hair getting caught in the piercing.
- Be cautious during physical activities. Avoid any activities that may cause trauma or pressure to the piercing, such as contact sports or wearing headphones.
- Listen to your body. If you experience any unusual pain, swelling, or discharge, contact your piercer or a healthcare professional for advice.
Following these tips can help your helix piercing heal properly and prevent any complications. Remember to always prioritize proper aftercare for any new piercing.
Five helix piercing myths debunked
If you’re considering getting a helix piercing, you may have heard some rumors or myths about it. To make an informed decision, let’s debunk five common myths about helix piercings.
1. Helix piercings are extremely painful
Many people believe that helix piercings are one of the most painful piercings you can get. While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, most people find the pain to be manageable and no more painful than getting a shot. With a good piercer, the process is quick and easy.
2. Helix piercings take forever to heal.
Healing times vary, but helix piercings typically take anywhere from three to nine months to fully heal. The aftercare process is essential to ensure proper healing. With proper cleaning and care, the healing process can be faster than you may think.
3. You can’t sleep on your side after getting a helix piercing.
While it’s recommended that you avoid sleeping on your new piercing, many people are able to sleep on their side after a few days or weeks. Just be sure to use a clean pillowcase and avoid putting pressure on the piercing.
4. Helix piercings can cause infections easily.
Like with any piercing, there is a risk of infection if proper care is not taken. However, as long as you follow the aftercare instructions given to you by your piercer, the risk of infection is very low. If you do notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, be sure to contact your piercer or a medical professional immediately.
5. You can’t change your jewelry for months after getting a helix piercing.
While you should avoid changing your jewelry during the healing process, once your piercing has fully healed, you can change your jewelry as often as you like. Just be sure to use clean and sterilized jewelry to avoid any infections.
By debunking these myths, you can feel more confident in your decision to get a helix piercing. Just be sure to do your research and find a reputable piercer to ensure a safe and successful piercing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pain tolerance varies from person to person, but most people report that helix piercings are relatively low on the pain scale. Typically, the pain is described as a pinch or pressure.
Helix piercings take around 3-9 months to heal fully, depending on factors such as the type of piercing and how well you care for it.
It’s not recommended to change your helix piercing jewelry before it’s fully healed. Doing so could disrupt the healing process and increase your risk of infection.
Sleeping on your helix piercing can be uncomfortable and may also delay the healing process. It’s best to avoid putting pressure on the piercing until it’s fully healed.
If you suspect your helix piercing is infected, it’s important to see a healthcare professional for proper treatment. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, discharge, and a fever.
It’s best to avoid swimming with a helix piercing until it’s fully healed to avoid the risk of infection. Chlorine, saltwater, and other chemicals in swimming pools and bodies of water can irritate the piercing and slow down the healing process.
The best way to tell if your helix piercing is healed is to check for signs of healing, such as no pain, redness, or swelling, and the ability to change the jewelry without discomfort.
