What is a Forward Helix Piercing?
A forward helix piercing is placed on the outer (usually upper) cartilage closest to your face, directly above the tragus. It’s a unique type of ear piercing that can be customized with different jewelry. While a single forward helix is common, you can also opt for double or even triple piercings for a truly unique and interesting ear look.
Key Points:
- Placement: Outer, upper cartilage directly above the tragus.
- Pricing: Typically ranges from $30 to $100, with additional costs for jewelry.
- Pain Level: Rated around 5 or 6 on a pain scale.
- Healing Time: Usually 3 to 9 months.
- Aftercare: Wash the piercing site 2-3 times a day with unscented, gentle soap or sterile saline solution until fully healed.
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The Procedure:
- Marking: Your piercer will clean the area and place a small mark on the agreed-upon placement.
- Piercing: A needle is pushed through the marked cartilage, followed by jewelry to finalize the piercing.
- Customization: The options for jewelry are endless, allowing for a personal and individual choice.
Pain and Healing:
Expect more pain than a normal lobe piercing due to cartilage involvement. Pain tolerance, piercer experience, and technique play a role. Healing time varies but can take several months.
Jewelry Options:
Choose from studs, hoops, or other decorative pieces. Get creative and make it your own!
Remember to consult a professional piercer for personalized advice and care instructions.
The risks of forward helix piercings
Certainly! While forward helix piercings can be stylish and unique, it’s essential to consider potential risks:
- Infection: Like any piercing, there’s a risk of infection. Proper aftercare (cleaning with saline solution) is crucial to prevent this.
- Keloids or Hypertrophic Scarring: Some individuals may develop raised scars around the piercing site.
- Pain and Swelling: The cartilage involved can make the piercing more painful than lobe piercings. Swelling is common initially.
- Migration or Rejection: The body may push out the jewelry over time, leading to migration or rejection.
- Damage to Cartilage: Incorrect placement or trauma during healing can damage the cartilage.
Remember to consult a professional piercer for personalized advice and care instructions.
Some tips to prevent infection
Certainly! Proper aftercare is essential to prevent infection after getting a forward helix piercing. Here are some tips:
- Cleanliness: Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the piercing site.
- Saline Solution: Use a sterile saline solution to clean the piercing 2-3 times a day. Avoid alcohol-based products.
- Avoid Touching: Refrain from touching the piercing unnecessarily.
- Avoid Swimming: Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or other bodies of water until the piercing heals.
- Avoid Makeup and Hair Products: Keep makeup, hair products, and other cosmetics away from the piercing area.
- Avoid Sleeping on It: Try not to sleep on the side of the piercing to prevent irritation.
Remember, everyone’s healing process is different, so consult a professional piercer for personalized advice.
What should you do if you notice any signs of infection?
If you notice any signs of infection around your forward helix piercing, act promptly to prevent complications. Here’s what you can do:
- Clean the Area: Use a sterile saline solution to clean the piercing site gently. Avoid alcohol-based products.
- Warm Saltwater Soaks: Prepare a warm saltwater solution (1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt in 8 ounces of water) and soak the piercing for a few minutes.
- Avoid Touching: Refrain from touching the piercing unnecessarily.
- Monitor Symptoms: Look out for redness, swelling, pain, discharge, or increased warmth around the piercing.
- Consult a Professional: If symptoms worsen or persist, seek advice from a professional piercer or a healthcare provider.
Remember, individual healing varies, so professional guidance is essential.
