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What is a Helix Piercing?
A helix piercing is placed in the cartilage on the outside of your ear, on the part that we call the helix in anatomy. Because this part of your ear is sturdier than your earlobe, a helix requires a little more healing time, but you get a stylish and versatile piercing in return.
What makes the helix piercing so attractive is the room for creativity. You can choose a minimalist stud, a sparkling stone or an elegant ring. Moreover, you can combine the helix piercing beautifully with other piercings for a unique ear stack. For example, think of a combination with a tragus, conch or a second helix for an asymmetrical and modern effect.
Helix piercing done at All Perfectly Pierced
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 types of helix piercings for you.
Every ear shape is different, which makes every helix piercing unique. Our piercers are happy to help you decide 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. Read here how we work at All Perfectly Pierced.
Forward Helix
This piercing is located at the front of the ear, just above the earlobe. 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 part of the cartilage in 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. Read more about the Hidden Helix in our blog
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.
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 have 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.
Stylishly combine with other piercings
One of the nicest things about the helix piercing is that you can vary it endlessly. You can keep it classic with one tight helix , but also choose multiple piercings in an arrangement that suits your face shape and style. For example, combine a helix with a flat piercing or add a charm for a playful touch.
At All Perfectly Pierced we are happy to help you put together your ideal ear party. Feel free to visit our piercing studio for personal advice. For inspiration, take a look at our styling options . We also have a beautiful range of Helix jewelry in our webshop and in the store, from subtle studs to beautiful rings for the Helix piercing.
Styling with helix piercing
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.
Have your jewelry downsized/shortened.
During the first few weeks of healing your helix piercing, some swelling may occur. That is why you always start with a longer barbell so that this swelling can be absorbed. On average, the swelling will subside within 6-8 weeks and this is the ideal time to have the piercing shortened, also called “ downsizing ”. The piercing will first be assessed and if there is enough space, the helix piercing will be carefully exchanged for a nicely fitting piece of jewelry.
Downsizing is an absolute must with a helix piercing. The chance that the helix piercing will become worn when it is slept on again when wearing a longer barbell is great. The outer edge of the ear is more vulnerable and you can also get caught more easily on hair and clothing with a protruding piece of jewelry.
Good to know! You can of course keep the jewelry you have chosen, only the bar will be replaced.
So make it easier for yourself and your helix piercing and book a check-up/downsize appointment.
Satisfied customer at All Perfectly Pierced
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 have listed 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 lump. These are often caused by friction, sleeping on the piercing, wrong material or insufficient aftercare. Fortunately, they are usually temporary and with the right care they will disappear on their own. Also read our blog about piercing moisture lumps for more information.
Allergic reaction
Do you suffer from itching, red spots or even blisters around your piercing? Then there could be an allergic reaction, usually caused by jewelry that contains nickel. That is why we at All Perfectly Pierced only work with high-quality, nickel-free materials such as titanium and 14k or 18k gold, so safe!
Keloid
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. Read more about keloids with piercings in our blog
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
These are the five most frequently asked questions about the helix piercing at All Perfectly Pierced. Do you have general questions about piercings? Feel free to check out our FAQ page for more answers.
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.
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.
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.
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.
When can I change my barbell 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.
Want to get a helix piercing at All Perfectly Pierced?
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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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Raquel Huygen van Weenen
About the author:
Raquel Huijgen van Weenen is the owner of All Perfectly Pierced and a passionate piercing expert with years of experience in setting and styling piercings. With an eye for detail, safety and personal service, she helps clients every day to a piercing that not only looks good, but also suits them. Through her blogs, Raquel shares her knowledge about care, trends and everything you want to know before getting a piercing.
Follow her tips for a stylish, responsible and above all perfectly pierced look. 💎
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