You might be looking to add a new look to your overall personality. The Upper cartilage piercing, also known as helix piercing, has got immense popularity due to its sleek and voguish appearance. The upper cartilage which is located on the outer rim of the ear offers a variety of styling options, helping every individual to showcase their bold personality. Whether you’re new to piercings or looking to add to your piercing collection, knowing the process, aftercare, and overall aesthetic of an upper cartilage piercing is important.
What is Upper Cartilage Piercing?
Upper cartilage piercing is done on the ear’s upper part, called the Helix. It should be noted that, unlike the lobe, the fleshy part of the ear, the cartilage is much more complicated and rigid in composition. This difference in tissue means that the piercing process is slightly different, as cartilage is not amenable to needles, as are softer structures. The upper cartilage is unique because it can be located at every part of the rim, and individuals can opt for a single piercing or other varieties.
Cartilage piercings give a very smooth and classy appearance. Because of their placement, they can be adorned with rings, hoops, or other intricate designs of studs. These piercings are common among men and women and have evolved into a trendy accessory in modern society where anybody can show their personality.
The Piercing Process
As with other upper cartilage piercings, the process differs slightly from ear lobe piercings. Depending on the person and the piercing, visiting a professional studio such as Galima Piercing is suggested, where specialists use needles instead of a gun, and everything is very sterile. This is because using the piercing guns will have an adverse effect in the case of cartilage piercing and may lead to scarring or taking longer to heal. However, it is crucial to underline that all the work done at Galima Piercing is done carefully and with dedicated accuracy for both the safety and comfort of the piercing.
Before getting the procedure done, the piercer will discuss where precisely the piercing should be done. The area is washed and disinfected, and a new sterilized needle is used to cut the skin. The process is relatively fast; the needle penetrates through the cartilage within a few seconds, then jewelry is implanted. On the other hand, some pain is a typical response because the cartilage is more challenging than the ear lobe; nonetheless, the pain level is tolerable and ephemeral in most cases.
Types of Upper Cartilage Piercings
There are various styles of upper cartilage piercings, allowing you to choose the one that suits your aesthetic preferences.
The most common type is the standard helix piercing, which is positioned on the outer edge of the upper ear. This simple yet stylish placement can be adorned with a stud or hoop, depending on your preference.
For those looking for something more eye-catching, the double or triple helix piercing involves placing two or three piercings along the outer rim of the ear. This setup allows for creative combinations of jewelry, offering a stacked or layered look that stands out.
Another popular style is the forward helix piercing, located near the front of the ear where the upper cartilage meets the face. This piercing is perfect for those who want something a little more subtle yet unique.
Lastly, the industrial piercing is a bold option where two piercings are connected by a single piece of jewelry, typically a barbell. This piercing is perfect for those who prefer a more dramatic look.
Aftercare and Healing Time
Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth healing process. So, as we are dealing with cartilage piercings, healing is different compared to the earlobe, and the general time taken to recover is about 6-12 months. Once you get an upper cartilage piercing, frequently clean this section with a saline solution or some other aftercare solution like STUDEX® Advanced 2-IN-1 Piercing Cleanser. This product is meant to ensure that you avoid infections on your piercing as it is gentle on the skin. The aftercare lotion, namely STUDEX® Aftercare Lotion, is also reported as perfect for post-surgery recovery. It does not apply heat to the skin, making it close gently, thus promoting safer and faster healing processes.
Massage your aftercare product to the piercings 3 to 4 times daily, depending on the irritation level of an area. This helps because your piercing will not be in contact with bacteria and will not cause any form of irritation, improving the healing period. One should also not turn the jewelry as this would introduce bacteria on the surface of the piercing and also cause unnecessary trauma to the region. Also, it is recommended that one should not sleep with the newly pierced area in contact with the pillow; the best sleeping position is on the back or the side opposite to the piercing. Aftercare tips for ears will ensure that your ears are in safe hands and you can have the best experience with upper cartilage piercing.
Wrapping Up
Upper cartilage piercing is a versatile and stylish way to express your individuality. Whether you’re opting for a single helix piercing or a more intricate design, the result is a stunning and unique look. With proper aftercare and attention, you can enjoy your new piercing for years to come. For those considering an upper cartilage piercing, Galima Piercing provides expert services and high-quality jewelry, ensuring that you receive the best possible experience.