WHAT EARRINGS ARE BEST FOR 

CARTILAGE PIERCINGS?


Best Cartilage Earrings

When it comes to cartilage piercings, there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to finding the best earrings. What works for one person might not be the best for another! That said, there are definitely a few things you should look out for when choosing the perfect pair of earrings for your cartilage piercing.


Read on for a few tips to help you make the best choice for your earrings!



First, What Is A Cartilage Piercing?


Cartilage earrings are a catchall term for an earring worn on any part of the ear that isn't the ear lobe. Cartilage earrings pierce the connective tissue on the upper sections of your ears. The ear cartilage is thicker and more durable than the skin, but it's softer than bone and considerably thicker than your earlobes, making it unique in numerous ways to a typical ear piercing.


What the best cartilage earrings are for the cartilage area is debatable. Some people think Cartilage earrings with flat backs are the best cartilage earrings for sensitive ears because they are easy to wear and don't stick out as much as other types of earrings. However, we say cartilage earrings with flat backs can be uncomfortable for this area.


Cartilage earrings with flat backs can be uncomfortable for this area because the flat back can press against the skin and cause irritation or even an infection. Cartilage is a sensitive area that requires careful and gentle treatment. Flat-back earrings can be especially problematic if they are improperly sized or move around too much. Additionally, cartilage piercings take longer to heal than earlobe piercings, so any irritation or infection can lead to an extended healing time and potentially even scarring.


Others say the best cartilage earrings for sensitive ears are cartilage studs because they are a little more versatile, so you can wear them in different ways. We agree that cartilage studs are the best cartilage earrings because they also work for people with sensitive skin, as they don't rub against this sensitive area too much.



1. HELIX PIERCING


Q: WHAT IS A HELIX?


A: A helix piercing is a type of cartilage piercing located on the upper outer rim of the ear cartilage. It is named after the helix, which is the curved ridge of cartilage that surrounds the outer edge of the ear. A piercer can create a helix piercing at various points along the rim of the ear and can be either a single piercing or multiple piercings arranged in a row.


Q: WHAT IS THE BEST JEWELRY FOR A HELIX PIERCING?


A: When it comes to choosing the best helix earrings, the best options are those made of high-quality materials like titanium or 14-karat gold. These metals  are less likely to cause allergic reactions or irritation, making them ideal for sensitive areas like the ear.


In terms of style, high-quality stud earrings and thin gold cartilage hoops are popular choices for helix piercings. These two simple earring styles are comfortable and versatile, making them a great choice for everyday wear.


It's worth noting that the most popular earring size for helix piercings is 18 gauge, but some individuals feel that the best helix earrings are a slightly larger size than the average 18 gauge width and measure around 16 gauge. 


Q: WHEN CAN I CHANGE MY HELIX EARRINGS 


A: Helix piercings take anywhere from 6 months-1 year to fully heal. However, the healing time is affected by many different factors, such as:


1. Aftercare: Proper aftercare is essential for any piercing, particularly helix piercings, because of their vulnerable location on the ear. This includes cleaning the area with a saline solution twice daily, avoiding any kind of contact with the piercing (such as when sleeping), and abstaining from swimming or hot tubs.


2. Body chemistry: Everyone’s body is different, meaning healing times will vary from person to person. Factors such as age, lifestyle, overall health, and metabolism can all affect the length of time it takes for a piercing to heal.


3. Jewelry: The best helix earrings are made of implant-grade metals like titanium or gold at least 14-karat. These metals are less likely to cause any kind of allergic reaction, making them ideal for sensitive areas like the ear. Wearing incorrect jewelry can cause irritation and additional healing time, so make sure to select comfortable helix earrings.


4. Stress and diet: Stress can slow down healing, as can an unhealthy diet, eating healthy and taking care of yourself is essential for any kind of body modification to heal properly.


By following proper aftercare instructions and being mindful of these factors, you can ensure that your helix piercing will heal quickly.


Q: WHAT GAUGE IS A HELIX PIERCING?


A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as the piercing size can vary depending on the individual's piercer. However, many piercers typically use a 14g or 16g needle for this type of piercing.


Q: HOW MUCH DO HELIX PIERCINGS COST?


A: The cost of a helix piercing varies greatly depending on where the piercing studio is located, how experienced your piercer is, and what jewelry you choose. It will cost anywhere from $30 to $75. There is also usually an additional fee for helix jewelry if not provided.



2. TRAGUS PIERCING 


Q: WHAT IS A TRAGUS PIERCING?


Tragus piercing is another common cartilage piercing. The tragus is the cartilage in front of the ear canal.

A: In most cases, the tragus is perforated in the middle. Depending on their chosen technique, your piercer will use a low-gauge, straight or curved needle.


Q: WHAT IS THE BEST JEWELRY FOR A TRAGUS PIERCING?


A cartilage stud with a flat disc backing is typical in the tragus, but thin gold cartilage hoops are also popular. A cartilage stud with a flat disc backing is common for a tragus piercing because it provides a secure and comfortable fit. The flat disc backing helps to distribute the weight of the jewelry, reducing the risk of irritation or pressure on the delicate cartilage tissue of the tragus. The stud design also keeps the jewelry in place and prevents it from getting caught on clothing or hair.


Look for high-quality tragus jewelry with implant-grade metals like titanium or gold at least 14-karat. You'll want high-quality tragus jewelry that is both comfortable and durable for this sensitive area.


Q: WHAT IS THE HEALING TIME FOR A TRAGUS PIERCING?


The healing time for a tragus piercing varies depending on how well you take care of it. Healing time is usually four weeks-6 months.


Q: HOW MUCH DOES A TRAGUS PIERCING HURT?


A: The ear-piercing pain level for the tragus is low. A fine-gauge hollow piercing needle is standard to make the puncture, which is usually not painful due to the tragus's minimal amount of nerve endings.



3. INDUSTRIAL PIERCING


WHAT IS AN INDUSTRIAL PIERCING?


A scaffold piercing, also known as an industrial piercing in the United States, is the connection of two piercings performed with a hollow piercing needle to form a single straight piece of jewelry.


Q: WHAT IS THE BEST JEWELRY FOR AN INDUSTRIAL PIERCING?


A 14G 1-inch cartilage bar is commonly used for industrial piercing jewelry, while a 16 gauge earring is also possible. It's not uncommon to start with cartilage studs and then switch to a cartilage bar after complete healing. Cartilage studs, commonly used for industrial piercings, generally result in speedier recovery, although they also make it more challenging to align the piercings.


Q: WHAT IS THE HEALING TIME FOR AN INDUSTRIAL PIERCING?


The healing time for an industrial piercing typically takes six months to 1 year to heal, depending on the individual and aftercare practices.



4. SNUG PIERCING


WHAT IS A SNUG PIERCING?


A snug piercing is a horizontal piercing that sits right above the anti-tragus location (or the cartilage's inner ridge).


Q: WHAT IS THE BEST JEWELRY FOR A SNUG PIERCING?


The best jewelry for a snug piercing is typically tiny gold studs or seamless cartilage hoop earrings because they are made of high-quality materials less likely to cause irritation or an allergic reaction. Snug piercings are located in the inner cartilage of the ear and can be sensitive to pressure, friction, or movement.


Tiny gold studs and seamless cartilage hoop earrings are both lightweight options with a smooth surface, which reduces the risk of snagging or pulling on the piercing site. They also provide a comfortable and secure fit without adding unnecessary weight or pressure to the area.


Because this piercing's location, it is susceptible to infection. Consider purchasing high-quality piercing jewelry for this piercing to avoid complications. Surgical steel, titanium, and high-karat gold (at least 14-karat) are all good materials for ear piercings.


Q: WHAT IS THE HEALING TIME FOR A SNUG PIERCING?


The piercing healing process for the snug area typically takes four months to six months to heal, depending on the individual and aftercare practices.



5. DAITH PIERCING 


WHAT IS A DAITH PIERCING?


The daith is the cartilage fold right above the ear canal.


The daith piercing involves the perforation of the crux of the helix (the flap of cartilage right above your ear canal) using a curved needle so as not to puncture or damage the surrounding cartilage. A receiving tube assists in the procedure to ensure that the needle is caught on the other side. 


Q: WHAT IS THE BEST JEWELRY FOR A DAITH PIERCING?


The best jewelry for a daith piercing is tiny gold studs or seamless hoops earrings. Tiny gold studs and seamless hoop earrings are both popular choices for daith piercings because they are comfortable to wear and easy to clean. The small size of the studs or hoops makes them less likely to get caught on clothing or hair, which can be painful and potentially cause damage to the piercing.


Make sure to choose high-quality daith jewelry for this area to avoid possible infection. High-quality daith jewelry includes surgical steel, titanium, and high karat gold.


Q: WHAT GAUGE IS A DAITH PIERCING?


There is no definitive answer to this question as the piercing size of a daith piercing can vary depending on the individual's piercer. However, most piercers typically use a 14g or 16g needle for this type of piercing.


Q: WHAT IS THE HEALING TIME FOR A DAITH PIERCING?


The healing time for a daith piercing can vary depending on several factors, such as individual healing rate, aftercare, and the type of jewelry used. Generally, it takes about four months up to a year for a daith piercing to fully heal.


6. ANTI-TRAGUS PIERCING


Q: WHAT IS A ANTI-TRAGUS PIERCING?


A: Anti-tragus piercings are located on the opposing side of the tragus piercing and are compatible with similar jewelry.


For those who want something new or have a tragus that is too small for piercing, the anti-tragus is a unique alternative to the tragus piercing within the cartilage section opposite the ear canal.


Make sure you choose high-quality ear jewelry with implant-grade metals like titanium or gold at least 14-karat. You'll want high-quality ear jewelry that is both comfortable and durable for this sensitive area.


Q: WHAT IS THE BEST JEWELRY FOR AN ANTI-TRAGUS PIERCING?


A: The perfect jewelry for an anti-tragus piercing is usually seamless hoops earrings in small gauges, or barbells, etc.


Q: WHAT IS THE HEALING TIME FOR A ROOK PIERCING?


A: Anti-tragus piercings can take 6 to 12 months to heal, depending on care.



7. ROOK PIERCING


Q: WHAT IS A ROOK PIERCING?


A: A rook piercing is located around the ear's anti-helix section. Your ear's anatomy will most likely determine the exact location of a rook piercing and if the piercer can reach the spot safely for a clean, healthy piercing.


Q: WHAT IS THE BEST JEWELRY FOR A ROOK PIERCING?


A: A 14G or 16G needle with a CBR or curved barbell is standard as initial jewelry for rook piercings; however, once your piercing has healed, there are many fantastic gold jewelry options for rook piercings, such as seamless cartilage hoop earrings, or solid silver stud earrings.


Make sure to choose high-quality piercing jewelry for the rook piercing to prevent possible infection. High-quality piercing jewelry includes surgical steel, titanium, and high karat gold ( at least 14-karat).


Q: WHAT IS THE HEALING TIME FOR A ROOK PIERCING?


A: Like other cartilage piercings, the rook piercing takes approximately 12 - 18 months to recover fully.


Q: HOW PAINFUL IS A ROOK PIERCING?


A: The ear-piercing pain level for a rook is very high. The rook piercing is a relatively challenging process that is widely considered one of the more painful piercings.



8. FORWARD HELIX PIERCING


Q: WHAT IS A FORWARD HELIX PIERCING?


A: The forward helix piercing is a version of the helix piercing that involves piercing the section of the upper ear cartilage closest to the head. When producing a forward helix piercing, a piercer will most likely use a free-hand method to puncture the ear. For a double- or triple-forward helix, it's also customary to puncture the forward helix many times.


Q: WHAT IS THE BEST JEWELRY FOR A FORWARD HELIX PIERCING?


A: The best helix jewelry for a forward helix are small high-quality stud earrings such as solid silver stud earrings and eternity hoop earrings with flat disc backing. 18 gauge earrings are usually ideal for forward helix earrings when it comes to thickness.


Choose high-end piercing jewelry with implant-grade metals such as titanium or gold (at least 14 karat). For this sensitive region, high-end piercing jewelry that is comfortable & durable is ideal.


Q: WHAT IS THE HEALING TIME FOR A FORWARD HELIX PIERCING?


Depending on the specific aftercare procedures, forward helix piercings might take six months to a year to heal.



HOW TO CLEAN PIERCINGS?


Clean the piercing with a saline solution, a fragrance-free antimicrobial soap, or both once or twice daily. Rinse the piercing thoroughly with clean water. Using a clean, disposable paper towel or tissue, gently dry the piercing.



CAN YOU USE STERILE SALINE FOR PIERCINGS?


A good way to clean your piercing is with saline spray. Saline spray will help to keep the area clean and free of bacteria. Spray the saline solution onto a cotton ball or Q-tip and gently wipe the area around your piercing. Repeat this process several times daily, especially after you shower or swim. You should also avoid touching your piercing with dirty hands. If you must touch your piercing, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly first.



HOW TO CLEAN PIERCINGS WITH SALT WATER?


To clean your piercings with salt water, you will need:


-1/2 teaspoon of salt
-8 ounces of warm water
-Cotton balls or gauze squares
-Clean, dry towel


Directions:


1. Mix the salt and warm water in a small bowl until the salt dissolves.


2. Soak a cotton ball or gauze square in the solution, then gently clean the piercing.


3. Repeat this process until the piercing is clean.


4. Dry the area with a clean, dry towel.


5. Repeat this process twice a day.



TOP 10 TIPS FOR CLEANING AN EAR PIERCING:


  • Clean your piercing when you do other regular hygiene habits. Clean it when you brush your teeth or take a shower to give yourself a gentle reminder every day.


  • Wash your hands with warm water and gentle soap before touching your piercing to avoid introducing bacteria to the area.


  • Clean with a salt solution-soaked cotton pad or swab. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water to make this solution. Use this a couple of times a day to eliminate any bacteria from the piercing region.


  • Dab (don't wipe) the piercing. Dab dry with a clean, soft towel or tissue so you don't harm the tissue while healing.


  • You should avoid perfumed soaps. Instead, clean the surrounding skin with mild antiseptic soap and water.


  • When you remove a piercing, clean the pierced region. Bacteria in the air can quickly accumulate on jewelry when placed on a surface like a counter or a table.


  • Don't clean your piercing in the bathroom. Even the most hygienic household bathrooms usually contain a high degree of bacteria.


  • Sleeping on a piercing for too long can irritate a fresh piercing. Sleeping or resting on your piercing allows moisture and germs to accumulate, increasing infection risk.


  • In the piercing region, don't use any hair or body products. Be cautious when utilizing shampoo, soap, gel, pomade, hairspray, or other chemicals near a piercing that can irritate the tissue.


  • Also, be on the lookout for any odd or discolored discharge. If you notice any unusual discharge, go to your piercer or doctor right away, as it might indicate an infection.


FAQ:



WHAT SIZE HOOP IS BEST FOR CARTILAGE PIERCINGS?


There is no definitive answer when it comes to the best size hoop for cartilage, as it depends on personal preference. Some people prefer a smaller hoop for a more discreet look, while others opt for a larger hoop to make a statement. But, ultimately, it is up to you to decide what size hoop works best for you and your unique style.


We recommend starting with a 20 gauge or 18 gauge hoop for a fresh piercing. This will give your piercing the chance to heal properly and avoid any unwanted irritation. Once your piercing has healed, you can experiment with different sizes and styles of hoops to find what you like best.

 



HOW DO FLAT BACK EARRINGS WORK?


Flat-backed earrings are exactly what they sound like: tiny gold or silver posts with flat backs. With traditional earrings, you slide them on front to back, and put a backing on to secure them. With flat back stud earrings, it's the opposite. You place flat-backed earrings on by sliding the threadless posts into your ear from the rear. Then you push the front part of the flat back stud earrings into the threadless posts to secure them.




HOW TO REMOVE FLAT BACK EARRINGS?


To remove flat-back earrings, follow these steps:


  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to ensure they are clean and free of germs.
  2. Gently hold the earring post with one hand, and use the other hand to twist the flat back in the opposite direction. Most flat-back earrings are threaded, which means that you need to twist the flat back counterclockwise to unscrew it.
  3. Continue to twist the flat back until it comes loose. Be careful not to pull on the earring post or apply too much pressure, as this may cause discomfort or pain.
  4. Once the flat back is loose, carefully remove it from the earring post and set it aside.
  5. Gently pull the earring post out of your earlobe or piercing. If you experience any pain or resistance, stop immediately and seek professional help.
  6. After removing the earrings, clean the piercing site with a saline solution.


WHAT DOES 18G MEAN FOR EARRINGS?


The term 18G refers to the gauge size of an earring. Gauge size is a measure of the thickness of the metal wire used for the jewelry. The higher the gauge number, the thinner the wire. In the case of 18-gauge earrings, the wire thickness is 1.0 millimeters or 0.040 inches. 18G is a common gauge size for earrings and is often used for earlobe piercings or cartilage piercings.


HOW DOES GAUGE SIZING WORK?


The piercing size is usually described in terms of gauge. The smaller the number, the thicker the wire (or needle). For example, a 20 gauge needle is thicker than a 22 gauge needle.


The larger the gauge, the longer it will take for the piercing to heal. It is best to start with a smaller gauge and then move up to a larger gauge as the piercing heals.



WRAPPING UP


Cartilage piercings are a great way to add a unique look to your look! Cleaning, protecting, and choosing the right jewelry for your piercing is key to ensuring your piercing heals properly. From selecting a piercing size to removing flat-back earrings, there are many things you need to keep in mind when taking care of cartilage piercings. By following the advice provided, you'll be able to keep your piercing looking great while staying safe! Best of luck!