The Real Talk FAQ, Helix Piercing Jewellery 101
If you have any interest in piercings, you already know helix piercings are everywhere right now. From stylish celebrities to your flatmate, it feels like everyone is rocking one. But whether you're interested in a forward helix piercing, a double helix piercing, or just want to understand the hype around helix piercing jewellery, there’s a lot to unpack.
This blog is your one-stop guide with honest answers, solid tips, and zero fluff.
What is a Helix Piercing?
A helix piercing is a type of cartilage piercing done on the upper outer part of the ear. It’s called “helix” because it’s located on the ear’s helix rim.
This piercing is super customisable and can be worn with everything from studs to hoops.
People often confuse it with other types like the flat helix piercing or the mid helix piercing. Those are slightly different placements along the cartilage. But they all fall under the helix family.
Types of Helix Piercings You Can Get
You’re not just limited to one spot. There’s more than one way to rock the helix:
- Forward helix piercing: Sits closer to your face, right above the tragus.
- Double helix piercing: Two piercings stacked vertically or diagonally.
- Flat helix piercing: Done on the flatter surface inside the upper ear.
- Mid helix piercing: Sits between the upper and lower part of the helix.
- Classic helix ear piercing: The most common placement along the ear rim.
Each style allows you to switch up your helix earrings depending on your mood or outfit.
How Long Does a Helix Piercing Take to Heal?
This is one of the most asked questions. How long does a helix piercing take to heal? On average, healing takes 6 to 12 months. That’s because cartilage piercings don’t heal as quickly as soft tissue ones.
The trick is patience. Don’t rush into changing your helix piercing jewellery just because it “looks” healed. Internal healing takes time, even if the outside looks fine.
When Can I Change My Helix Piercing?
Changing your jewellery too early can cause trauma or infection. So when can I change my helix piercing? It is recommended to wait at least 6 months, or better yet, wait until a professional gives you the green light.
If you’re dying to wear a hoop, it’s a good idea to ask your piercer first.
If you're wondering, when can I change my helix piercing to a hoop, the answer is: only when it’s fully healed. Hoops move more and can slow the healing process if used too early.
Does a Helix Piercing Hurt?
Pain is subjective. The cartilage area is tougher than your earlobe, so expect a more noticeable sensation. Still, the pain comes and goes quickly, and it is generally tolerable.
How Much Is a Helix Piercing in the UK?
Let’s talk about price.
Typically, the price ranges from £25 to £45, depending on the studio, location, and type of jewellery you pick.
If you're searching how much a helix piercing costs globally, it varies. It's best to prioritise quality and hygiene over cheap deals.
What Gauge Is a Helix Piercing?
Most helix piercings use a 16-gauge (1.2mm) barbell or stud. If you're wondering what gauge is a helix piercing, just know it’s thicker than a lobe piercing but perfect for long-term durability and jewellery variety.
Healing Tips for a Helix Piercing
One of the most common queries is how to heal helix piercing fast.
While there's no cheat code, you can speed things up with smart care:
- Clean twice daily using saline solution or sterile wound wash.
- Avoid sleeping on the piercing side (more on that soon).
- Don’t touch it with dirty hands.
- Avoid swimming in pools during the first few months.
And yes, how to clean helix piercing is as simple as using sterile saline and a clean tissue or gauze pad. No fancy products needed.
Sleeping with a Helix Piercing
We know the struggle.
Pressure and friction from pillows can irritate the area and lead to bumps so you will need to be really careful until it is completely healed.
Try using a travel pillow or sleeping on your other side. It's a small lifestyle tweak that can save you months of discomfort.
What If I Want to Take It Out?
If you're considering removal, It usually involves unscrewing the flat back or bead from the bar.
This is not always easy to do yourself, especially with fresh piercings. It’s always recommended to ask a piercer to do it for you.
Can a Helix Piercing Close Up?
The answer is yes. Especially if it’s new. People often ask how long does it take for a helix piercing to close, and the answer depends on how healed it is.
If it’s fully healed, it may never close completely but can shrink.
Will my helix piercing close overnight? Not likely if it’s a year old, but if it’s under 3 months, you could lose it faster than you think. Always insert a placeholder if you must remove the jewellery.
What Does an Infected Helix Piercing Look Like?
It’s important to know the signs. So what does an infected helix piercing look like? Look out for:
- Redness and swelling that worsens
- Yellow or green discharge
- Throbbing pain or warmth
If you're seeing any of this, don’t ignore it. Clean with saline and see a piercer or doctor if it doesn't improve.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Helix Piercing?
UK regulations vary, but generally, most reputable studios require you to be 16 or over, sometimes with parental consent for minors. Always check your local laws and the studio's rules before booking.
Choosing Helix Piercing Jewellery
Picking the right helix jewellery is half the fun! From simple studs to gemstone hoops, the options are endless. Always choose hypoallergenic materials like titanium or surgical steel during healing.
Trendy styles to try:
- Flat-back studs for everyday comfort
- Seam rings or segment clickers after healing
- Dainty chains connecting double helix piercings
Explore your vibe, but don’t forget that quality matters more than looks during the healing stage.
A helix piercing is more than just a trend. It’s a form of self-expression. Whether you’re getting a cartilage piercing for the first time or levelling up with a double helix piercing, the key is good care, patience, and the right jewellery choices. From understanding helix piercing healing time to knowing how to clean helix piercing and when to change your jewellery, being informed makes all the difference.