By Sara Bright
Helix piercing is one of the most popular types of ear piercings. It involves piercing the upper cartilage of the ear, usually with a small hoop or stud. Helix piercing can add some edge and personality to your look, as well as give you more options to accessorise your ears. But before you head to the nearest piercing studio, there are some things you need to know about helix piercing, such as the pain level, the healing process, the aftercare, and the potential risks. Here is everything you need to know before getting a helix piercing.
How painful is a helix piercing?
The pain level of a helix piercing varies from person to person, depending on your pain tolerance, the skill of the piercer, and the type of jewellery you choose. Some people describe it as a sharp pinch, while others say it feels like a pressure or a dull ache. The pain usually lasts for a few seconds, and then subsides. However, you may experience some soreness, swelling, or throbbing for a few days or weeks after the piercing.
The best way to minimise the pain is to choose a reputable and experienced piercer, who will use a sterilised needle and proper technique. Avoid getting pierced with a gun, as it can cause more trauma and damage to the cartilage. Also, opt for a smaller and lighter jewellery, such as a thin hoop or a tiny stud, as they will put less pressure on the piercing site.
How long does a helix piercing take to heal?
The healing time of a helix piercing depends on several factors, such as your health, your hygiene, your aftercare, and your jewellery. Generally, a helix piercing takes about 3 to 6 months to heal completely, but it may take longer for some people. The cartilage is a tough and dense tissue, which means it has less blood supply and slower healing rate than the earlobe. Therefore, you need to be patient and diligent with your aftercare to avoid infections and complications.
The most important thing to do is to keep your helix piercing clean and dry. You should wash your hands before touching your piercing, and use a saline solution or a mild soap to gently clean the area twice a day. You should also avoid twisting, turning, or changing your jewellery, as it can irritate or injure the piercing. Moreover, you should avoid sleeping on the pierced ear, wearing headphones or hats, or exposing your piercing to harsh chemicals, cosmetics, or hair products.
What are the risks of a helix piercing?
A helix piercing is generally safe and well-tolerated, as long as you follow the proper aftercare and hygiene. However, like any other piercing, it can have some risks and complications, such as:
- Infection: This is the most common and serious risk of a helix piercing. It can occur if you touch your piercing with dirty hands, use unsterilised equipment, or neglect your aftercare. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pus, pain, fever, or foul smell. If you suspect an infection, you should see a doctor as soon as possible, and avoid removing your jewellery, as it can trap the infection inside.
- Rejection: This is when your body treats your jewellery as a foreign object, and tries to push it out of the skin. It can happen if you have an allergic reaction to the metal, or if your jewellery is too heavy, tight, or poor quality. Signs of rejection include itching, irritation, inflammation, or migration of the jewellery. If you notice any of these signs, you should remove your jewellery and let the piercing close, or switch to a different material, such as titanium or gold.
- Keloid: This is a type of scar tissue that forms around the piercing site, and grows beyond the normal boundaries of the wound. It can happen if you have a genetic predisposition to keloids, or if your piercing is subjected to trauma, infection, or excessive pressure. Keloids are usually hard, raised, and dark in colour, and can be difficult to treat. If you develop a keloid, you should consult a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon for the best treatment options.
How to choose the best helix piercing for you?
A helix piercing can be a fun and creative way to express yourself, as there are many styles and variations to choose from. You can get a single helix piercing, or multiple ones along the rim of your ear. You can also get a forward helix piercing, which is closer to the face, or a double or triple helix piercing, which are stacked on top of each other. You can also mix and match different types of jewellery, such as hoops, studs, barbells, or cuffs, and experiment with different colours, sizes, and designs.
The best helix piercing for you depends on your personal preference, your ear anatomy, and your lifestyle. You should consider the following factors when choosing your helix piercing:
- Your pain tolerance: Some helix piercings may be more painful than others, depending on the location and the number of piercings. For example, a forward helix piercing may be more sensitive, as it is closer to the nerve endings, while a double or triple helix piercing may require more punctures and longer healing time.
- Your ear shape and size: Some helix piercings may suit your ear better than others, depending on the shape and size of your ear. For example, a forward helix piercing may look better on a smaller or flatter ear, while a double or triple helix piercing may look better on a larger or rounder ear.
- Your jewellery preference: Some helix piercings may require a specific type of jewellery, or allow more flexibility and variety. For example, a single helix piercing can be worn with any kind of jewellery, while a forward helix piercing may need a smaller and flatter jewellery, such as a stud or a barbell.
The best way to choose your helix piercing is to consult a professional piercer, who can advise you on the best options for your ear and your style. You can also browse online or look at other people’s helix piercings for inspiration and ideas.