If you’re looking to up your ear game with a new piercing, you might be curious about the different options available to you. While some people opt for the classic lobe piercing, there’s a growing trend for cartilage piercings. But what is a cartilage piercing called? Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like – a piercing placed through the cartilage of the ear.
Cartilage piercings can be done in different locations depending on your preference, including the helix (the outer rim of the ear), the tragus (the small flap of cartilage in front of the ear canal), and the conch (the flat part of the ear). While some people might cringe at the thought of a needle going through the sensitive cartilage, others find that the sleek look of a cartilage piercing is worth the temporary discomfort. Plus, with so many jewelry options available – from delicate studs to bold hoops – it’s easy to make your new piercing your own.
Cartilage Piercing Types
Cartilage piercings have been around for centuries but have only recently gained popularity among the younger generation. Cartilage piercings are located on the upper part of the ear and can be worn with various types of jewelry. Here are some of the most popular cartilage piercing types:
- Helix piercing: This is the most popular type of cartilage piercing, and it refers to the upper rim of the ear. The helix can be pierced in different areas, such as the forward helix, double helix, or triple helix.
- Rook piercing: This type of cartilage piercing is done on the fold of cartilage between the outer and inner conch of the ear. It is a unique piercing that is less common than the helix piercing.
- Daith piercing: This cartilage piercing is done on the innermost fold of cartilage above the ear canal. The daith piercing has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its purported ability to relieve migraines and anxiety.
- Tragus piercing: This is a piercing done on the tragus, which is the front part of the ear canal that sticks out. It is a popular piercing that can hold various types of jewelry, including studs, hoops, and even chains.
- Conch piercing: This piercing is done on the inner cartilage of the ear, below the helix. It is a versatile piercing that can be done in different areas of the conch, such as the outer conch, the inner conch, or the flat conch.
How to Care for a Cartilage Piercing
After getting a cartilage piercing, it is important to properly care for the piercing to prevent infections and promote healing. Here are some tips to help care for your cartilage piercing:
- Keep your hands clean: Before touching your piercing, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water to reduce the risk of transferring bacteria to the pierced area.
- Clean your piercing: Using a saline solution (made with 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water) or a piercing aftercare solution, gently clean the piercing twice a day. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide as they can dry out and irritate the piercing.
- Avoid irritation: Avoid sleeping on the side of the piercing for the first few weeks to prevent irritation. Also, avoid touching or twisting the jewelry as this can also cause irritation and delay the healing process.
It is important to note that cartilage piercings take longer to heal than earlobe piercings. The healing process can take anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the individual and how well they care for the piercing.
In addition to proper cleaning and avoiding irritation, there are some other precautions you can take to help care for your piercing:
1. Avoid swimming for the first few weeks as the chlorine in the water can irritate the piercing.
2. Be careful when changing clothes, brushing your hair or doing other activities that could accidentally snag the jewelry or pull on the piercing.
3. Consider wearing a hair tie or headband to keep your hair away from the piercing site to avoid irritation.
4. If you experience any signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, pain, or discharge, see a healthcare professional immediately.
| Signs of Infection | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Excessive redness and swelling | Contact a healthcare professional immediately |
| Warmth around the piercing site | Seek medical attention as soon as possible |
| Pain or tenderness | See a doctor for evaluation and treatment |
| Discharge | Seek medical care right away as this can be a sign of infection |
Overall, taking proper care of your cartilage piercing can help ensure that it heals properly and without complications. By following these tips and seeking medical attention if necessary, you can enjoy your new piercing in no time.
Risks and Complications of Cartilage Piercings
Cartilage piercings have become a popular form of body art in recent years. However, along with the trendy style and different jewelry options, there are also risks that come with acquiring one. Here are a few things you need to know before getting a cartilage piercing.
Cartilage piercings are more prone to infections and complications because they take a lot longer to heal than a traditional earlobe piercing. Healing time for cartilage piercings can range anywhere from six months to a year. Moreover, due to the thickness of the cartilage and the lack of blood flow, it takes longer for the body to repair itself.
- Cartilage piercings take time to heal, and improper care or poor jewelry choices can cause damage.
- One of the dangers of cartilage piercings is infection. Cartilage piercings are more prone to infections because of the lack of blood flow in the cartilage tissue.
- If an infection occurs, it could lead to keloids, cysts, or even sepsis. Other potential complications are the crusts, pain, and swelling that accompany it.
It is essential to choose a professional piercer and follow aftercare instructions. Make sure to keep the piercing clean and dry, avoid swimming in pools or lakes until the piercing is fully healed, and do not remove the jewelry before the piercing has completely recovered. If you notice any signs of infection, including redness, swelling, or pus, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Overall, cartilage piercings are a beautiful form of self-expression. Still, it is essential to take the necessary precautions to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.
| Signs of infection | How to avoid an infection |
|---|---|
| Redness and swelling | Clean the piercing as instructed, avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands, carefully select the jewelry and do not remove it until fully healed |
| Pus or discharge | Do not twist or turn the jewelry, do not sleep on the side of the piercing, and avoid exposing the piercing to bacteria, such as swimming in public pools or lakes. |
| Increased pain or warmth around the piercing | Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or any other harsh or aromatic substances to clean the piercing site, unless expressly instructed by the piercer. |
Lastly, you should take time to research piercers in your area and the most reliable ways to care for the piercing to minimize the risks of complications.
Cartilage Piercing Pain Level
If you’re thinking of getting a cartilage piercing, one of the things you might be wondering about is the pain level involved. While it’s impossible to say exactly how much pain you’ll experience – everyone’s pain threshold is different – it’s true that cartilage piercings can be more painful than other types of piercings. Here’s what you need to know about cartilage piercing pain level.
- Cartilage piercings can be more painful because the cartilage itself doesn’t have very many nerve endings. This means that the needle has to go through a tougher, less sensitive tissue before it reaches the nerves in your skin.
- Some people describe the pain of a cartilage piercing as feeling like a sharp pinch or a burning sensation. Others report more intense pain, similar to a deep, throbbing ache.
- One thing that can affect cartilage piercing pain is the location of the piercing. Cartilage at the top of your ear, for example, tends to be more sensitive than cartilage in the middle or towards the bottom of your ear.
While cartilage piercing pain can be intense, there are things you can do to minimize your discomfort. Here are some tips to help:
- Choose a professional piercer who uses a sterilized needle rather than a piercing gun. Needles are generally less traumatic to the tissue, which can make the piercing less painful.
- Take pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen before your appointment to help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Practice deep breathing or other relaxation techniques during the piercing to help your body cope with the pain.
If you’re still concerned about the pain level involved in a cartilage piercing, talk to your piercer ahead of time. They’ll be able to walk you through the process and let you know exactly what to expect. Remember, while pain is definitely a part of the process, it’s temporary, and millions of people have gone through it before you.
| Piercing Location | Pain Level (1-10) |
|---|---|
| Top of ear | 7-8 |
| Middle of ear | 5-6 |
| Forward helix | 6-7 |
| Tragus | 6-7 |
As you can see, the pain level of a cartilage piercing can vary depending on the location. Keep in mind that this is just a general guide, and everyone’s experience will be different. The most important thing is to be prepared for some level of discomfort, but know that it will pass.
Cartilage piercing aftercare do’s and don’ts
Aftercare is an essential part of the healing process for cartilage piercings. Here are some tips on what to do and what to avoid:
- Do clean the piercing twice a day with saline solution or a non-alcoholic, unscented cleanser.
- Do avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands or allowing others to touch it.
- Do sleep on the opposite side of the piercing to avoid putting pressure on it.
- Do change pillowcases frequently to avoid bacteria buildup.
- Don’t use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or any other harsh chemicals on the piercing.
- Don’t remove the jewelry until the piercing is fully healed.
- Don’t twist or turn the jewelry as it can irritate the piercing and delay the healing process.
- Don’t submerge the piercing in bodies of water such as pools, hot tubs, or lakes until it is fully healed.
Signs of a problem
While slight redness, swelling, and tenderness are normal for the first few weeks after a cartilage piercing, there are certain signs that indicate a problem. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Pain that continues to increase after a few days
- A fever
- Extreme swelling or redness
- Pus or discharge coming from the piercing
- Difficulty moving the jewelry or changing it
Aftercare products
While cleaning the piercing with saline solution or an unscented cleanser is sufficient, some people may want to try aftercare products specifically designed for cartilage piercings. Here are some products to consider:
- Aftercare sprays, such as NeilMed Piercing Aftercare Fine Mist Spray
- Healing oils, such as H2Ocean Piercing Aftercare Spray
- Saline solution packets, such as Recovery Piercing Aftercare Soaks
Healing times
Cartilage piercings typically take longer to heal than earlobe piercings due to the lack of blood flow in cartilage tissue. Healing times can vary depending on the person and the location of the piercing, but here are some general healing times to expect:
| Piercing location | Healing time |
|---|---|
| Helix (outer ear) | 3-12 months |
| Tragus (front of ear canal) | 6-8 months |
| Rook (inner ear fold) | 6-8 months |
It’s important to note that everyone’s healing process is different and may take longer or shorter than expected.
How to Change a Cartilage Piercing
Changing a cartilage piercing can be a bit complicated, but with the right knowledge and tools, it can be a breeze. Below are some important things to keep in mind when changing your cartilage piercing.
- Timing: Before changing your cartilage piercing, make sure it has fully healed. This usually takes about 6-12 months. Changing the jewelry before it’s completely healed can lead to infection, irritation, and prolong the healing process.
- Cleanliness: Always make sure your hands and the jewelry are completely clean before attempting to change your cartilage piercing. Use a saline solution and cotton swabs to clean the piercing and jewelry.
- Tools: You’ll need a few tools to change your cartilage piercing, including pliers, gloves, and a taper. Make sure these tools are specifically meant for piercing and are properly sterilized before use.
Once you’re ready to change your cartilage piercing, follow these steps:
- Put on gloves and clean the piercing and jewelry with saline solution.
- Using pliers, gently loosen the ball at the back of the jewelry and remove it.
- Gently insert the taper into the piercing and slowly push it through. If you feel any resistance or pain, stop immediately – this means the piercing hasn’t fully healed or the jewelry doesn’t fit properly.
- Slide the new jewelry onto the taper and guide it gently through the piercing. Make sure to insert the jewelry from the back of the piercing and screw the ball onto the front.
- Once the jewelry is in place, remove the taper and clean the piercing and jewelry once more with saline solution.
- Do not touch or twist the jewelry for at least the first 24 hours, and avoid sleeping on the pierced ear for the first few days.
Remember, changing a cartilage piercing should not be rushed. Take your time and always prioritize cleanliness and safety to avoid any infection or complication. If you experience any severe pain or swelling, seek medical attention immediately.
Cartilage piercing jewelry options
When it comes to cartilage piercings, there are a variety of jewelry options available. From classic studs to unique hoops, the possibilities are endless. Here are seven types of cartilage piercing jewelry to consider:
- Studs: The most common option for cartilage piercings, studs range from simple and discreet to bold and sparkly. They can be made of materials like gold, silver, titanium, and cubic zirconia.
- Hoops: Another popular choice, hoops come in a variety of sizes and designs. They can be simple and classic or more ornate with charms or dangling chains.
- Captive bead rings: These rings feature a ball that is held in place by the ring’s tension. They can be a comfortable and stylish option for cartilage piercings.
- Barbells: A barbell consists of a straight bar and two beads or other decorative ends. They are a sleek and modern choice for cartilage piercings.
- Circular barbells: Also known as horseshoe rings, circular barbells are a popular option for helix piercings. They can come in a variety of gauges and materials to suit your personal style.
- Spirals: These unique pieces of cartilage jewelry feature a spiral design that twists through the cartilage. They can be a playful and eye-catching option for those looking for something different.
- Ear cuffs: Ear cuffs are a non-piercing option for those who want the look of a cartilage piercing without the commitment. They come in a variety of styles, from simple and subtle to bold and extravagant.
When choosing cartilage piercing jewelry, it’s important to consider both style and comfort. Make sure the jewelry is made of high-quality materials and fits properly to avoid irritation or discomfort. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find a piece of jewelry that shows off your unique sense of style.
FAQs: What is a Cartilage Piercing Called?
1. What is a cartilage piercing called?
A cartilage piercing is also known as a helix piercing.
2. What part of the ear is cartilage piercing on?
The cartilage piercing is located on the upper ear, specifically on the prominent ridge of cartilage that runs from the earlobe to the top of the ear.
3. Is getting a cartilage piercing painful?
Yes, getting a cartilage piercing can be painful as the cartilage is tougher than earlobe tissue and takes longer to heal.
4. How long does it take for a cartilage piercing to heal?
A cartilage piercing can take anywhere from 3 months to a year to heal completely, depending on your body and how well you take care of it.
5. Can I change my cartilage piercing jewelry during the healing process?
It is best to wait until your cartilage piercing is completely healed before changing the jewelry to avoid any complications or infections.
6. Is it safe to get a cartilage piercing?
Yes, it is safe to get a cartilage piercing as long as it is performed by a professional and sterile environment.
7. Can I swim with a cartilage piercing?
It is best to avoid swimming or soaking the piercing while it is healing to prevent infections and complications.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to read about what a cartilage piercing is called and the common questions surrounding it. Remember to always choose a professional for any piercings and take good care of the piercing during the healing process. Come back again soon for more informative articles!