Hoping to take your ear piercing game to the next level? Think you want an ear cartilage piercing but not sure what kind? You came to the right place! Spencer’s is here to show you everything there is to know about helix piercings, a popular piece of body jewelry that is versatile and stylish. We will go over helix piercing types, helix jewelry types, healing times, and SO much more.

Before we get started, it’s important to remember that body piercing healing times can vary. Ear cartilage piercings usually take about 3-6 months to heal on average, but this isn’t a guarantee. The healing process is key, and keeping up with the piercing aftercare will ensure that your healing period goes smoothly. Keep in mind that body piercings are a big commitment and that they should always be done by professionals.

Helix Piercing

What is a Helix Piercing?

Helix Piercing Location: 

A standard helix piercing is located on the upper ear, on the outside ear cartilage. It is directly horizontal to the forward helix piercing (also known as the anti-helix). You can also get mid-helix piercings (slightly lower than a standard helix piercing) and low helix piercings (slightly lower than a mid-helix piercing).

Helix Piercing Process: 

This body piercing is typically performed with a hollow 16 or 18-gauge piercing needle.

How much does a helix piercing cost?

Helix piercing cost depends on where you live and which piercing studio you choose. There are different types of piercings that have varying prices.

How much does a helix piercing hurt?

Helix piercing pain depends on your pain tolerance. We recommend talking to a piercing professional about pain management before getting your cartilage pierced.



Other Types of Helix Piercings:

Double helix piercings, triple helix piercings, and forward helix piercings are popular and stylish choices too!

Double Helix Piercing

What are Double Helix and Triple Helix Piercings?

Double Helix Piercing Location:

double helix piercing consists of two helix piercings that sit vertically on the upper cartilage. To achieve a triple helix piercing, you can add a third piercing. You can also get a double forward helix piercing or a triple forward helix piercing.

Forward Helix Piercing

What is a Forward Helix Piercing?

Forward Helix Piercing Location:

A forward helix ear piercing, also known as an anti-helix piercing, is located where the upper outside ear cartilage meets the face. The forward helix is located above the ear canal and across from the standard helix. You can also get a double forward helix piercing or a triple forward helix piercing.



Helix Piercing Jewelry

Flat back stud earringscaptive ringshoop earringsand curved barbells are the recommended jewelry styles for a helix piercing. Check out all the flat back earrings and helix hoops on our site!

How much does helix jewelry cost?

There are different types of jewelry, such as hoop helix rings and industrial barbells, which may have a higher price than a standard cartilage stud earring. Jewelry material may also factor into the price. We recommend calling a professional piercer for more information.

Body Jewelry Care:

Clean your jewelry with antibacterial soap and warm water. For more tips on body jewelry care, check out How to Care for Your Body Jewelry & Body Piercings.

Can I get an allergic reaction from my helix jewelry?

Having an allergic reaction to your helix jewelry is possible and could result in a rash, redness, or bumps. Contact an experienced piercer and make sure that getting a helix cartilage piercing is the right move for you. Be sure to discuss jewelry material options before getting pierced. Check with a doctor beforehand to learn more about your allergies.

How long should I wait to change my helix piercing jewelry?

You need to wait until the body piercing is completely healed before changing jewelry styles. The helix piercing healing process can take up to 6 months, so it’s important that you use the same piece of jewelry during that time and keep up with the piercing aftercare. We recommend using H2Ocean aftercare spray or saline solution to keep your piercing clean.


Helix Piercing Aftercare

Helix Piercing Healing Times and Tips:

Helix piercing healing times vary, but they typically heal in about 3-6 months. We recommend talking to a piercing professional about the healing period, cartilage piercing bumps or swelling, and cleaning routines before getting your piercing.

How do I care for my helix earring?

We recommend using H2Ocean aftercare spray or saline solution to keep your piercing clean. Make sure to speak with your piercing professional for guidelines on helix piercing care. Learn more about how to clean your piercing and jewelry, types of piercings, types of jewelry, and general piercing info on our blog.

How do you give yourself a helix earring?

You don’t! Helix piercings (and any kind of cartilage earrings) need to be done professionally to prevent any possible infections or other complications during the healing process.

Why shouldn’t I get a helix cartilage piercing?

If you’re questioning whether or not you should get a body piercing or any type of body modification, we recommend contacting a piercing studio and talking to a professional. Consider everything before committing. Not every piercing is for everyone, and that’s okay! Take your time deciding and speak with a professional to be sure you’re making the best decision you can for your body. We recommend starting with a standard ear lobe piercing if you’ve never had body jewelry before. If you decide that you want one, Spencer’s has tons of cute helix earrings to choose from.

Other Types of Cartilage Ear Piercings:

Hoping to learn more about cartilage ear piercings? Check out our complete guides to getting rook piercings, conch piercings, tragus piercings, and more on The Inspo Spot!


Now that you’ve read our guide to getting a helix earring, let’s go shopping! Whether you’re looking for ear lobe jewelry, helix jewelry, or any other kind of body jewelry, Spencer’s has it all.

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