People choose to get piercings for all sorts of reasons. Some people do it for fashion, some for self-expression, and others for a sense of belonging. Whatever your reason for getting a piercing, it's essential to do your research before taking the plunge.
As body piercings go, helix piercings are pretty popular right now. They add a little something extra to your ear party and are also relatively easy to take care of and are not as painful as other types of piercings.
You might be wondering how much a helix piercing costs. Or maybe you're curious about what kind of jewelry is best for a new helix piercing. We've got all the answers to your helix piercing questions right here.
What is a helix piercing?
If you're not familiar with the anatomy of the ear, the helix is the outer rim of the ear. It's the part of your ear that sticks out from your head. A helix piercing is simply a hole pierced through the helix.
Helix piercings can be done in a variety of places along the helix. The most popular spot is at the top of the ear, but some people choose to get multiple helix piercings. You can even get a double helix piercing, which is two holes pierced side by side in the helix.
What does a helix piercing feel like?
Every person experiences pain differently, but most say that helix piercings are only mildly painful. That's because the helix is made up of cartilage, which is much tougher than the fleshy lobe of the ear.
Some people compare the pain of a helix piercing to being poked with a sharp object. Others say it feels more like a sharp pinch. The good news is that the pain is over pretty quickly—it only takes a few seconds to pierce the ear.
What is a forward helix piercing?
A forward helix piercing is simply a helix piercing done closer to the front of the ear rather than at the top. It's a popular spot for people who want multiple helix piercings because it leaves room for additional piercings along the rim of the ear. When done correctly, forward helix piercings heal quickly and without complications.
What are helix piercings good for?
In addition to looking pretty cute, helix piercings are also suitable for people who want a relatively easy-to-care-for piercing. They're also a good choice for people looking for a less painful piercing option.
What is the difference between a helix piercing and a cartilage piercing?
Many people use the terms "helix piercing" and "cartilage piercing" interchangeably, but helix piercing is actually a type of cartilage piercing.
Cartilage piercings are any piercings done through the cartilage—the tough, rubbery tissue that makes up the outer ear. In addition to helix piercings, cartilage piercings can also be done in the tragus (the little nub of cartilage in front of the ear canal), the conch (the innermost part of the ear), and the rook (the upper cartilage near the ear canal).
How much does a helix piercing cost?
The price of a helix piercing will vary depending on the shop you go to, the location of the piercing, and whether or not you need to buy jewelry. In general, you can expect to pay between $30 and $75 for a helix piercing.
What kind of jewelry is best for a helix piercing?
When it comes to jewelry for helix piercings, your options are pretty much endless. You can choose from various metals, including surgical steel, titanium, gold, and silver. If you have metal allergies, there are also a few hypoallergenic options, like surgical-grade plastic and biocompatible metals.
As far as the jewelry style goes, it's really up to you. You can choose a simple stud or hoop or go for something more elaborate, like a dangle or charm.
How should I clean my helix piercing?
Cleaning a helix piercing is pretty simple—you just need to use a mild soap and water solution. Gently clean the area around your piercing twice a day, being careful not to snag the jewelry on anything.
You should also avoid touching your piercing with dirty hands and wash your hands before cleaning the piercing. And if you're planning on swimming, it's a good idea to clean your piercing beforehand and wear a waterproof bandage over it to keep bacteria out.
Related: Necklace 101
How long does it take for a helix piercing to heal?
Most helix piercings will heal within 6 to 8 weeks. However, it's not uncommon for the piercing to take up to 3 months to fully heal.
During the healing process, it's essential to avoid touching the piercing or putting any pressure on it. You should also avoid sleeping on the side with the piercing and be careful not to snag the jewelry on anything.
If you have any concerns about the healing process, or if you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge, it's a good idea to contact your piercer or doctor.
