Helix Piercing | Body Piercing Magazine

The process of perforating the helix or upper ear using a small gauged hollow piercing needle in order to insert a jewelry or ring is known as helix piercing.

How is helix piercing done

This kind of piercing is generally done with a sterile hollow needle of 18 gauge or even curved ones mainly used by novice piercers. A tiny cork can be used to block the opening of the ear canal, also preventing foreign particles from entering the ear. The needle should remain inside till the jewelry is added. This process requires minimum head movement as a lot of pressure is needed to puncture the area. Therefore it is advisable to lie down while performing the same. Gun piercing is to be avoided as it may cause sudden shock to the ear as well as lead to infection.

Helix piercing pain

Though not too painful as the helix is without any nerve endings, people may go through pain if too much pressure is exerted on the cartilage by the piercer during the perforation process. The pain generally lasts for few seconds, but may depend upon the individual’s pain bearing capacity. After the jewelry is inserted into the newly formed hole it may cause a little discomfort. Since the blood vessels are destroyed during the piercing process, minor bleeding occurring for about an hour need not be worried about. Swelling or the release of a pale lymphatic fluid is not any infection symptom.

Helix piercing after care

The piercing should be touched to the minimum for a few days as constant contact with it may hurt the tender tissue, leading to inflammation and pain.
Do not bring the pierced are in contact with makeup, body sprays, perfumes or any other fluids.
Cleaning the area with cotton or washing with warm water will help in preventing infection. However over-cleaning may dry the tissues, increasing pain.
It is recommended to sleep on your back, avoid swimming or wearing earmuffs to avoid putting pressure on your ear.
Avoid picking at the crust formed by the lymphatic fluid as it may lead to bacterial infection.
Do not twist the jewelry as it may result in tearing or irritating the fistula.
Imitation jewelry should not be worn till healing. The jewelry is also not to be worn tightly.

Helix piercing healing time

The pain may last for about 2 to 4 months, which also depends on the care and precautions taken after piercing. It may however take a year for it to heal completely.

Helix piercing jewelry

After piercing the helix you can adorn it with a variety of decorative and showy jewelry. Labret studs, microdermal, horseshoe circular barbell, ball closure ring, captive bead ring (CBR), hoops or studs are some options for jewelry that can be worn after piercing. Spiral-shaped or heart-shaped jewelry are also aptly suited.

How much does helix piercing cost

It is not too expensive and the cost varies from one shop to the other. However the cost approximately ranges from $20 to $50, also depending on the reputation of the shop.

Types of Helix piercing

Single helix piercing: This refers to the single perforation made in the upper cartilage or helix region.

Double helix piercing: Here double perforations are made in the upper cartilage of the ear.

Triple helix piercing: In this kind, three piercings are done one after the other.

Anti helix piercing: Also known as the snug, the piercing passes through the anti helix region (inner cartilage ridge) from the middle to the side. A small curved barbel or a captive bead ring can be worn.