Helix Piercing Guide: Everything About Cartilage Ear Piercings

Complete Guide to Helix & Cartilage Ear Piercings

Helix piercings are one of the most popular ear piercings, offering endless styling possibilities along the upper ear cartilage. Whether you're considering your first helix or planning a curated ear, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Types of Helix Piercings

Standard Helix - Single piercing on the upper outer rim of the ear cartilage. The most common cartilage piercing.

Double Helix - Two piercings stacked vertically on the upper ear cartilage for a bold, symmetrical look.

Triple Helix - Three piercings in a row along the helix for maximum impact and styling options.

Forward Helix - Pierced on the front-facing cartilage above the tragus. Perfect for small studs and delicate jewellery.

Before Your Appointment - Pre-Care Advice

Eat well 1-2 hours before (prevents dizziness, keeps blood sugar steady)

Stay hydrated before and after

Avoid alcohol/recreational drugs for 24 hours prior

Bring valid photo ID (passport or driving licence)

Under 16s must attend with a parent or legal guardian

What to Expect During Your Helix Piercing

At Origins Body Art, we use professional piercing needles and sterile technique for all cartilage piercings:

  1. Consultation and precise placement marking
  2. Sterilization of the ear
  3. Quick piercing with a hollow needle
  4. Insertion of implant-grade titanium flat-back labret
  5. Comprehensive aftercare instructions

Our Standards - Only the Best

Needles only - never guns, anywhere, ever

Implant-grade titanium as standard (hypoallergenic & biocompatible)

Lifetime-guaranteed jewellery for quality and safety

Strict aseptic technique & medical-grade sterilization

Helix Piercing Pain Level

Helix piercings typically rate 4-5 out of 10 on the pain scale. You'll feel pressure and a sharp pinch as the needle passes through the cartilage, but it's over in seconds.

Healing Time & Aftercare

Healing Time: 3-12 months for complete healing. Cartilage piercings take longer than lobe piercings.

Jewellery & Aftercare - Origins Standards

We stock NeilMed Sterile Saline Spray - in-store (our only recommended aftercare)

Use saline ONCE a day for 2 weeks, then 2-3 times a week until fully healed

Follow LITFA - Leave It The F*** Alone (no twisting, spinning, or over-cleaning)

Be mindful of clothing and moorings (most snags happen when it's time)

Downsize at 3-6 months once swelling settles - we'll advise when it's time

Free Two-Week Check-Up

Book your complimentary check-up so we can ensure a perfect heal.

Book Your Free Check-Up

Best Jewellery for Helix Piercings

Initial Piercing: Implant-grade F-136 titanium flat-back labret stud. Hypoallergenic, lightweight, and perfect for healing cartilage.

Healed Piercings: Upgrade to 14ct solid gold studs, seamless hoops, clickers, or huggie earrings. Mix and match for curated ear styling.

Book Your Helix Piercing

Ready for your helix piercing? Book your appointment at Origins Body Art in Loughborough. Expert cartilage piercings with implant-grade jewellery and lifetime warranty.

Book Your Helix Piercing Appointment

Back to blog