Everything You Need to Know About Helix Piercings

If you've been thinking about adding an extra bit of sparkle to those ears of yours with a new piercing, there's a good chance you may have come across what's known as a helix piercing.

Situated at the top of the ear, a helix piercing offers an effortlessly cool way to switch up your look and add a touch of edge. Whether this is the first time you're hearing of such a piercing or you've been considering getting one for a while now, here's everything you need to know about helix piercings:

1. What Exactly Is a Helix Piercing?

Technically speaking, a helix piercing is any piercing that's located along the upper, outer cartilage ridge area of the ear (the word "helix" itself references that anatomical section of the ear). However, all you really need to know when it comes to what a helix piercing actually is is that it can be anything so long as it exists on this part of the ear.

(via Shuttertock)

 

Also read about: A Piercing Professional Reveals What You Should Know Before Getting an Ear Piercing

 

2. Are There Different Kinds of Helix Piercings?

Absolutely! Since a helix piercing is simply a piercing on that specific part of the ear, there are many different styles and types that you may want to consider. For example, helix piercings can include everything from a flat helix (a common type that lies on the flat part of the inside of your ear, typically a long bar) to a forward helix (located on the cartilage that's closest to your face) and even a snakebite helix piercing (two piercings on the helix part of the ear that are close to each other, like the teeth marks of a snake bite).
 

Also read about: Everything You Should Know About Ear Piercings 

 

3. Does It Hurt?

So here's the thing you probably really wanted to know about helix piercings: The pain level of getting one. The truth is, what you need to know about helix piercings is that how much it hurts to get one will depend on your personal pain tolerance level. Generally, it will probably hurt more than getting your lobe pierced, as that area consists of more fleshy tissue rather than the denser cartilage of the helix area. But, it's usually a pretty tolerable pain, so it all depends on whether or not you think the pain is worth it (and remember: Psyching yourself out about the pain only makes it hurt worse!).

(via Shuttertock)

 

Also read about: A Definitive Ranking of Ear Piercings, From Least to Most Painful

 

4. What Does The Healing and Care Process Look Like?

When it comes to the healing and aftercare of a helix piercing, you'll need to know a few basics. First of all, the actual healing will depend on your overall health (how much sleep you're getting and stress levels, to name two) as well as how well you care for the actual piercing when it's fresh. On average, a helix piercing can take about two months to heal, with full healing taking place by about six months. This is pretty similar to any piercing you would get, so that's important to take into account if you're worried about the healing time. Proper care is also integral to the healing process, so keep these tips in mind:

• Don't twist the piercing or touch it if you can avoid it
• Get a saline wash or spray and use it once or twice a day, maximum
• Avoid snagging the piercing on anything by being mindful of your sleeping positions and any hazards
• Don't use harsh cleaning agents (such as alcohol or hydrogen peroxide) unless specifically recommended by a professional

(via Shuttertock)

 

Also read about: Everything You Need to Know About Tragus Piercings

 

And just like that, there's everything you need to know (or at least the basics) about helix piercings! If it sounds like something you're interested in, reference this list to know what to expect, but be sure to go to a professional for the actual piercing and aftercare regimen advice. And if the process—or pain—of it all sounds like too much, maybe just explore some piercing-free ear cuff options by clicking HERE.