If your looking to add a edge and some style to your appearance then a helix piercing might just be for you. Helix is a very popular piercing choice that is a great way to express yourself and show some individuality, no matter whether you want a stud or hoop style or both this article will sure help you make any decisions about having a helix style piercing LETS GET STARTED!
Table of Contents
What is a Helix Piercing?
A helix piercing is a cartilage piercing located in either ear normally on the upper part typically the outer rim. Because helix piercings pass through harder cartilage they require a different piercing procedure and aftercare, there is also many types of helix piercings take a look below to get a good idea of what one suits you best.
There Is 14 Different Types Of Helix Piercings
- Standard Helix Piercing – This is the most common and straight forward piercing and is typically done with a small stud or hoop.
- Forward Helix Piercing – Is positioned on the outer rim of the ear close to where it meets the head and can normally have single, double or triple piercings.
- Double Helix Piercing – Are 2 separate piercings located evenly next to each other, this style enhances the helix look and goes well with matching or complementary jewellery.
- Triple Helix Piercing – With a very similar look to the double helix the triple adds 3 layers of piercing that adds unique layers to the ear and can be formed with small studs, hoops or a combination.
- Industrial Piercing – Otherwise known as scaffolding piercing is made up of 2 helix piercings connected together with a piece of jewellery which gives a bold and edgy look.
- Anti Helix Piercing – Also known as snug piercing and for good reason this is located in the inner cartilage of the ear and runs parallel to the outer helix, this is very noticeable and unique look.
- Mid-Helix – This piercing is done on the outer rim of the ear in between the ear lobe and the top of the ear, these normally become the focal point of your helix piercings.
- Outer Conch Piercing – Even though this doesn’t really class as a helix it still gets a mention as its located in the flat cartilage in the middle of the ear opposite to the helix, and has become a very popular choice for people looking to diversify there piercing look.
- Orbital Helix Piercing – This piercing gives a lovely floating effect and consists of 2 holes in the helix that’s connected together by 1 piece of jewellery which is normally a hoop.
- Helix Orbital Piercing – This is a combination of a standard helix piercing and a outer conch piercing that’s connected together with a single hoop, this gives a fantastic look as it spans across various parts of the ear.
- Helix To Rook Piercing – This piercing is connected with a curved barbell its a combination of a single helix and a rook that’s the cartilage in the upper inside part of the ear.
- Helix To Daith Piercing – Providing a seamless connection between a single helix and daith which is the innermost fold of cartilage with a single piece of jewellery, with the right jewellery choices this adds a seamless flow between the outside and inside of the ear.
- Triple Forward Helix Piercing – This is 3 pieces of jewellery that get progressively smaller from the head down towards the ear lobe.
- Cross Helix Piercing – Is where a piece of jewellery commonly a barbell is placed through multiple different helix points on the ear creating a cross pattern, this is a much more complex and unique style of piercing.
Pros And Cons Of Helix Piercing
The Helix Piercing Procedure
Choosing The Right Professional Piercer
The most crucial part before you have a helix procedure is selecting a professional and experienced piercer for a safe and successful piercing. The safest way is to use someone that a friend or family member has used before and had a successful piercing with, failing that look online in your local area for a reputable piercing studio, with certified piercers who operate in a clean and sterile environment. No matter who you choose always look at online reviews and even go to the piercing studio to book your appointment so you can take a look first.
The Piercing Process
How Much Pain?
This is a difficult one to answer as people pain freehold’s vary from person to person. Because helix piercings go through Cartlidge it is generally more painful then just a ear lobe piercing but less painful then some other body parts, i would describe it as a quick sharp pain with a throbbing sensation afterwards.
How Long To Heal?
Healing time for a helix piercing procedure can be anywhere from 3 to 6 months, but fully healing could even take up to 1 year this is due to a couple of factors including aftercare and individual healing rates. Your general overall health can impact your healing time.
Aftercare And Maintenance (Very Important)
Having a proper aftercare routine is essential to preventing infections and a smooth and fast healing process as possible. Below are some key helix piercing aftercare things to know and do.
Cleaning The Piercing
- Saline Solution – Mix 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt with 8 ounces of warm distilled water and clean twice daily.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals – Be sure not to use any alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or any harsh chemical products on the piercing as this may cause some irritation.
- Be Gentle – This goes without saying but don’t go mad when cleaning, use a soft cotton ball or pad and gently clean around the piercing being very careful not to touch or twist the jewellery.
Avoiding Irritation
- Keep Hands Off – As much as we all want to touch and admire our piercings at this stage we need to avoid touching with dirty hands, this will prevent any bacteria and in turn less chance for infection.
- Hair And Accessories – keeping hair, hats and accessories away from the piercing site will make sure it does not get snagged and will help with any irritation.
- Sleeping Positions – Be sure to try sleeping on the opposite side of the piercing to help with any pressure and rubbing friction.
Signs Of Infection
The main signs to look out for include excessive redness, swelling, pain and any discharge leaking from the piercing site. If you suspect you have a infection contact the piercer or healthcare professionals straight away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Normally Cost For A Helix Piercing?
The cost of a helix piercing various due to the location your in and the studio you are going to use also your choice of jewellery, but on average you should be looking to pay anywhere between £30 to £70 with additional cost depending on the jewellery you have chosen.
Can I Get Multiple Helix Piercings At Once?
Yes for sure you can get multiple helix piercings at once you must consider your pain tolerance when doing so, and your ability to care for multiple piercings simultaneously.
What’s The Best Way To Minimize Pain During A Helix Piercing?
Make sure you have plenty of fluids and well rested before your procedure, also some people find that having a small snack before helps keep there blood sugar levels up. Also communicate with the piercer about any worries you may have.
When Can I Change My Helix Jewellery?
I strongly recommend you wait until your piercing has healed before changing your jewellery, this may take 3 to 6 months or possibly longer, if you decide to change it to soon you run the risk of irritation or worse still infection.
What Materials Are Best For Helix Piercing Jewellery?
You only want to use high quality materials like surgical stainless steel, titanium and either 14k or 18k gold for your helix piercings. With there hypoallergenic properties they are less likely to cause irritation.
IN CONCLUSION
Helix piercings are a very versatile and edgy choice for anyone looking to enhance there ear jewellery appearance. No matter what look you go for whether it be the single helix, double, triple or industrial. One things for sure your going to stand out. You have countless customization combinations. If you made it this far you now know all about the procedure, pain levels, healing time and aftercare, make a informed decision based on everything you know now and enjoy your helix piercings for many years. If you are considering a helix piercing just be sure to pick a reputable piercer and follow the aftercare plan.
