Helix piercing

Types of Helix Piercings

Within the world of helix piercings, there are surprisingly many variations possible. Depending on the shape of your ear and your personal style, you can choose from different places and combinations. Below, we highlight a number of popular alternative helix types for you.

Forward Helix

This piercing is located at the front of the ear, just above the tragus. It is a subtle, yet striking choice that looks great with a small stud or subtle ring. You can also have multiple forward helix piercings placed underneath each other for a sleek, modern look.

Vertical Helix

With the vertical helix, the jewelry runs vertically through the cartilage instead of horizontally. This gives a unique twist to the classic helix and works perfectly with a barbell. It is a slightly less common variant, but therefore extra special.

Hidden Helix

The Hidden Helix piercing is located in the upper cartilage of the ear, just below the helix rim. The hidden helix jewelry is placed in such a way that it is largely hidden, leaving only the hanging part visible. This gives the illusion of a floating piece of jewelry, which contributes to a minimalist and refined look.

Single, Double & Triple Helix

Have you got the taste for it? Then you can also opt for a double or triple helix – two or three piercings on top of each other in the upper ear rim. This creates a powerful and balanced effect, especially when you coordinate the jewelry nicely.

Every ear shape is different, and that makes every helix unique. Our piercers are happy to think along with you about what suits your ear and style best. This way you can be sure that your helix is ​​not only beautifully placed, but also really suits you.

Getting a helix piercing

A helix piercing is always done with a needle – never with a piercing gun. This is important, because the cartilage is more sensitive than the soft parts of the ear. A professional piercer uses a sterile, hollow needle to pierce the skin in a controlled and safe manner. At All Perfectly Pierced we ensure that this process is as comfortable as possible, with attention to hygiene and your wishes. Read more about the working method of All Perfectly Pierced in our blog.

The pain you experience when getting a helix piercing is often described as a sharp prick, but most people find it bearable. Because everyone has a different pain threshold, the experience can vary. Fortunately, the moment is over quickly and you have a beautiful piercing in return.

Helix piercing healing & care

After getting your helix piercing, the healing period begins, and this requires some patience. Unlike earlobe piercings, cartilage takes longer to fully heal – on average between 3 and 9 months. It is important to leave your piercing alone during this period and not to touch it with unwashed hands. In this blog, we will tell you more about healing a piercing.

Daily cleaning with a saline solution is essential for proper healing. Also, avoid sleeping on the ear where your helix is, especially in the first few weeks. This prevents irritation and promotes healing.

Helix piercing and possible obstacles

Although a helix piercing is a beautiful addition to the appearance of many people, it is also good to consider possible obstacles. For example, wearing headphones or tight-fitting earplugs during the healing period can cause discomfort. Sleeping on the side of your piercing is also often difficult in the beginning, especially if you are used to lying on one side. If you work in an environment where hygiene or safety is extra important - such as in healthcare or catering - your piercing may need to be temporarily covered or protected. It is also good to know that not every ear is suitable for a helix piercing. If you have very thin or sensitive cartilage, it is wise to first seek advice from an experienced piercer. At All Perfectly Pierced we always take the time to look together at what suits your ear and your lifestyle best.

Be well prepared for your helix piercing

A successful piercing starts with good preparation. Always choose a professional piercing studio that works according to strict hygiene standards. A clean environment, experienced piercers and clear communication are essential. Take the time to read reviews and feel free to ask about certifications or licenses of the piercer - after all, it is your body. Get to know All Perfectly Pierced better here.

The jewelry you start with also plays an important role in the healing process. Hypoallergenic materials such as titanium or real gold (14 or 18 carat) are ideal to prevent irritation. A straight bar is often chosen for a helix piercing, because this offers enough space for any swelling in the first few weeks. And finally: avoid blood thinners such as alcohol or aspirin before your appointment. These can increase the risk of bleeding and negatively affect recovery.

Complications of a Helix Piercing

Although most helix piercings heal without problems, complications can occur in some cases. Due to its location in the cartilage, a helix is ​​more sensitive to certain complaints than, for example, an earlobe piercing. We list the most common complications for you.

Infections

Infection is more common with cartilage piercings such as the helix, mainly because the blood flow is less good there. This makes it harder for the body to fight bacteria in that area. Symptoms of an infection include redness, warmth, swelling, pain and sometimes pus. In rare cases, an infection can become more serious and require medical intervention .

Piercing Moisture Bump

Do you see a red, bumpy lump around your piercing? Then there is a good chance that you are suffering from a piercing moisture bump. These are often caused by friction, sleeping on the piercing, wrong material or insufficient aftercare. Fortunately, they are usually temporary - with the right care they will disappear on their own. Also read our blog about piercing moisture bumps for more information.

Allergic reactions

Are you experiencing itching, red spots or even blisters around your piercing? Then it could be an allergic reaction, usually caused by jewelry that contains nickel. That is why at All Perfectly Pierced we only work with high-quality, nickel-free materials such as titanium and 14k or 18k gold - safe and stylish.

Scar formation

Some people are more sensitive to scarring than others. With a helix piercing, keloid formation can occur - especially with a genetic predisposition: a thickening of the scar tissue. This is rare, but something to take into account.

Long term healing

A helix piercing needs a bit more time to heal completely. Most people can expect a healing time of 3 to 9 months, but in some cases this can take up to 12 months. Swelling in the first few weeks is normal and that is why we always place a slightly longer piece of jewelry in the initial phase, so that the piercing has enough space to heal quietly.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Helix Piercing

1. How long does it take for a helix piercing to heal?

A helix piercing takes an average of 3 to 9 months to fully heal. The outside may seem calm quickly, but the inside of the canal needs more time to fully heal. Patience and good aftercare are essential.

2. Can I sleep on my helix piercing?

It is best not to sleep on the side of your helix piercing while it is healing. Pressure and friction can cause irritation and slow down the healing process. Consider using a special pillow or travel pillow with a hole in the middle to keep your ear free.

3. What should I do if my helix piercing gets infected?

If you experience symptoms such as redness, swelling, throbbing pain or pus, it is advisable to contact an experienced piercer or GP immediately. Do not try to remove the jewellery yourself, as this can worsen the infection.

4. When can I replace the jewelry of my helix piercing?

Only change your jewelry when your piercing is fully healed – usually after 3 to 9 months. Changing it too early can cause irritation, scarring or even new inflammation. If in doubt, seek professional advice.

5. When can I change my bar to a ring in my helix piercing?

A ring is a stylish choice, but can make the piercing more sensitive due to the freedom of movement. Therefore, wait at least 3 to 6 months, and make sure your piercing is completely calm before you switch. Preferably have your piercer change it the first time.

Get your helix piercing done at All Perfectly Pierced

Are you ready to upgrade your ear with a stylish helix piercing?

Make an appointment today through our online tool and discover why All Perfectly Pierced is the place to go for your next piercing.

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