Considering a helix piercing? You’re definitely not alone! This stylish ear piercing has become super popular for its edgy and customizable look. From the definition of a helix piercing to how to properly maintain for your new body part, this comprehensive guide has you covered. Let’s get started!
What is a Helix Piercing?
Understanding the Basics
The difference between a lobe piercing and a helix piercing is that the latter is performed on the ear’s cartilage rather than its flesh. This opens up new possibilities for jewelry that complements helix piercings and gives them a one-of-a-kind look.
Types of Helix Piercings
There are several variations of helix piercings:
Standard Helix Piercing: Located on the upper outer cartilage.
Forward Helix Piercing: Positioned on the cartilage closest to your face.
Double or Triple Helix Piercings: Multiple piercings along the helix for a layered look.
Industrial Piercing: Two helix piercings connected by a single barbell.
Why Choose a Helix Piercing?
Stylish and Versatile
Modern and adaptable, helix piercings are all the rage. Easily express your individuality with jewelry by accessorizing with studs, hoops, or barbells, among other options.
Customizable
A helix piercing may be as simple as one piercing or as intricate as three. To make a statement that is all your own, try experimenting with various kinds of jewelry and how you wear them.
The Piercing Process
Choosing a Professional Piercer
To begin, look for a piercer who has a solid reputation, lots of expertise, and positive ratings. The treatment will be carried out in a safe and sterile manner by an expert.
The Procedure
Here’s what to expect:
Cleaning: Your piercer will clean your ear and mark the spot for the piercing.
Piercing: A sterilized needle is used to pierce the cartilage.
Jewelry Insertion: The initial jewelry is inserted immediately after piercing.
Pain and Healing Time
The piercing itself will hurt like hell, and then you’ll be painful for days afterward. The usual duration for healing is between six and twelve months.
Aftercare Tips
Cleaning Your Piercing
Aftercare that is up to par is crucial. If you have a piercing, you should use a saline solution or an aftercare spray to clean it twice a day. For the sake of infection prevention, do not touch the piercing with unclean hands.
Avoiding Irritation
Be mindful of activities that can irritate your piercing:
Sleeping: Try not to sleep on the side with the new piercing.
Hair Products: Keep hair products away from your piercing.
Headphones and Hats: Avoid pressure from these items during the initial healing period.
Recognizing and Handling Infections
An infection might be present if you see redness, swelling, or discharge. Quickly consult a healthcare provider or your piercer for guidance.
Choosing the Right Jewelry
Initial Jewelry Selection
A tiny barbell or hoop crafted from surgical steel or titanium will often be used as an initial piece of jewelry by your piercer to facilitate swelling.
Changing Your Jewelry
After your piercing heals, you can switch to different jewelry:
Hoops: Offer a classic look.
Studs: Simple and elegant.
Barbells: Great for a bold statement, especially in industrial piercings.
Materials Matter
To lessen the likelihood of skin irritation and allergic responses, choose for hypoallergenic materials such as surgical steel, titanium, or gold.
Popular Helix Piercing Styles
Minimalist Look
For a delicate, sophisticated look that goes well with several piercings, use tiny studs or thin hoops.
Statement Pieces
Pick up some ornamental barbells or bigger hoops for a daring style. Personalize your piercing with charms or diamonds to make it stand out.
Multiple Piercings
Show off a variety of jewelry designs and add complexity to your outfit by stacking or cascading several helix piercings.
Helix Piercing Trends
Mixing and Matching
Helix piercings are a great way to express your individuality and style via jewelry mixing and matching.
Dainty Designs
Subtle charms, studs, and thin hoops are all the rage right now, and they can elevate any piercing to the next level.
Ear Cuffs and Constellation Piercings
A one-of-a-kind and creative approach to ear jewelry is to have constellation piercings or ear cuffs, which are tiny piercings arranged strategically.
Cost of a Helix Piercing
What to Expect
Helix piercing costs vary, typically ranging from $30 to $70 plus the cost of jewelry.
Factors Influencing Price
Factors affecting the price include:
Experience of the Piercer: More experienced piercers may charge higher fees.
Jewelry Material: Higher-quality materials like gold or titanium can increase the cost.
Studio Location: Prices may be higher in urban areas.
Risks and Considerations
Potential Complications
Though helix piercings seldom cause infections or allergic reactions, they can increase the chance of keloids, which are elevated areas of scar tissue.
Proper Aftercare
Reducing the likelihood of problems is a primary goal of proper aftercare. Do not touch your piercing with unclean hands, as your piercer may have instructed you.
When to Seek Help
It is crucial to seek prompt medical assistance in the case of extreme pain, swelling, or discharge in order to avoid more serious complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a helix piercing take to heal?
Healing time ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on individual healing rates and adherence to aftercare guidelines.
Can I swim with a new helix piercing?
Avoid swimming in pools, lakes, or the ocean until your piercing fully heals to prevent infection.
How can I reduce swelling in my helix piercing?
Apply a cold compress to the area, avoid sleeping on the pierced side, and follow proper aftercare practices.
When can I change my helix piercing jewelry?
Wait until your piercing is fully healed—typically 6 to 12 months. Consult with your piercer before making any changes.
Are helix piercings painful?
Pain levels vary, but most people describe the process as a sharp, quick pain followed by manageable soreness.
Conclusion
A helix piercing is a great method to show off your own style and stand out from the crowd. Your piercing may provide you delight for many years to come with the correct aftercare and jewelry. The options are limitless, whether you want a simple, understated style or a striking, eye-catching one. Will you be pierced? Get a professional piercer to do the insertion, then take care of your new helix piercing as directed.