The popular Helix Piercing
Aside from standard earrings, the helix piercing is likely the most beloved ear piercing. There are countless types of helix piercings to choose from. In recent years, this piercing has gained significant popularity, thanks in part to the many styles and options it offers. In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the trendy helix piercing!
WHAT IS A HELIX PIERCING?
A helix piercing is a popular ear piercing that goes through the cartilage along the outer rim of the ear. The term "helix" comes from Greek, meaning "spiral" or "spiral-shaped structure." In anatomy, it refers to the raised, spiral-shaped cartilage on the outer edge of the ear. Thus, a piercing in this specific part of the ear is called a "helix piercing."
A helix piercing can be placed in various locations on the ear. The options range from the top of the outer ear helix to further forward towards the face. The exact placement of your ear jewelry entirely depends on your personal preference and creativity.
TYPES OF HELIX PIERCINGS
There are several variations of the helix piercing, each with its own unique look:
Single Helix: this is the most common form, where a single piercing is placed through the cartilage.
Double or Triple Helix: here, two or three piercings are placed next to each other, creating a more noticeable effect.
Forward Helix: this piercing is placed at the front of the ear, close to the head.
What Types of Jewelry Can You Use for Your Helix Piercing?
- Hoops: Small rings that go through the piercing for a subtle and classic look. These hoops often feature a hinged closure, making them easy to put in and take out.
- Studs: Straight bars, often adorned with diamonds or other embellishments. The piercing studs are secured by a flat threaded screwback of the jewelry onto the pin or bar.
WHAT SIZE HELIX PIERCING?
Helix piercings typically have a thickness of 1.2 mm. However, this can vary depending on individual needs, and your piercer might recommend a larger or smaller gauge for your ear. Generally, studs and hoops of this thickness fit most helix piercings.
For the length of the bar, it is crucial that it fits perfectly. A bar that is too long can shift and cause irritation. The standard length is 6.5 mm.
HEALING TIME FOR A HELIX PIERCING
The healing time for a helix piercing can vary, but it generally takes about 6 to 12 months to fully heal. This timeframe can depend on several factors, including your overall health, how well you care for the piercing, and your personal healing speed.
CARE AND AFTERCARE
As with any piercing, proper care is essential to prevent complications. After getting a helix piercing, it is important to:
- Clean regularly: Use a saline solution or a special piercing cleaner to keep the area clean.
- Avoid touching: Try to touch the piercing as little as possible to prevent infections.
- Avoid water: Minimize contact with water during the healing process. Avoid pools, hot tubs, and even prolonged showers, as bacteria in water can cause infections.
- Be cautious with hair products: Ensure that hair products like shampoo, conditioner, and hairspray do not come into contact with the piercing, as they can cause irritation.
For more information on piercing aftercare, check out our blog on ‘Piercing Aftercare’.
