What Is a Helix Piercing? Everything You Need to Know Before Getting One

Body piercings have been around for centuries, but in recent years, helix piercings have become one of the most popular choices for people who love ear styling. Whether it’s a subtle single stud or a stacked row of hoops, a helix piercing adds personality and style to your look.
But what exactly is a helix piercing, and what should you know before getting one? Let’s break it down.
What Is a Helix Piercing?
A helix piercing is any piercing that goes through the upper cartilage of your ear, along the outer rim. This area is versatile and can be pierced in multiple spots, making it a favorite for those who want to create curated ear looks.

Types of Helix Piercings
One reason helix piercings are so popular is the variety of placements you can choose:
- Standard Helix Piercing: Placed on the upper outer cartilage.
- Double or Triple Helix Piercing: Two or three piercings stacked along the rim.
- Forward Helix Piercing: Located on the cartilage closest to your face, near the root of the helix.
Industrial Piercing: A barbell that connects two helix piercings across the ear.

How Is a Helix Piercing Done?
At professional studios, a helix piercing is always done with a sterile hollow needle, never a piercing gun. The piercer marks the spot, uses the needle to create a precise hole, and then inserts the jewelry.
✨ Pro Tip: At Ali Weiss Jewelry, our piercers have 10+ years of experience and are masters of their craft, ensuring every piercing is done safely and beautifully.
👉 Learn more about piercing safety standards from the Association of Professional Piercers

Does a Helix Piercing Hurt?
Pain tolerance is different for everyone, but helix piercings generally feel like a quick pinch. Since the cartilage is denser than the earlobe, you may feel a little more pressure, but most people find it very tolerable.
Healing Time for Helix Piercings
Cartilage piercings heal slower than lobe piercings. On average, a helix piercing takes 6 to 12 months to fully heal.
Healing tips include:
- Clean with saline solution or a gentle cleanser twice daily.
- Avoid sleeping directly on your new piercing.
- Don’t twist or play with the jewelry.
- Always wash your hands before touching it.
👉 For a detailed step-by-step guide, see our piercing aftercare tips.
Best Jewelry for Helix Piercings
Helix piercings allow for endless jewelry options:
- Studs: Minimal and classic.
- Hoops: Stylish and versatile.
- Clickers & Huggies: Easy to wear and swap out.
- Statement Pieces: Decorative cuffs and chains for a bold look.
At Ali Weiss Jewelry, we carry a curated collection of 14k gold jewelry designed for long-lasting beauty and safe wear.
Why Choose a Professional Studio for Your Helix Piercing?
A helix piercing may look simple, but cartilage piercings require skill and experience. At Ali Weiss Jewelry:
- Our piercers have 10+ years of expertise.
- We use only sterile, single-use needles.
- We offer a wide selection of 14k gold jewelry for safe, hypoallergenic wear.
- Our team prioritizes comfort, safety, and precision.
👉 Don’t just take our word for it, see what our clients say on our customer reviews page.

Book Your Helix Piercing
Ready to upgrade your ear game? Book your helix piercing with one of our master piercers and experience the difference of professional care and stunning jewelry.
Final Thoughts
Helix piercings are stylish, versatile, and timeless. Whether you go for a single stud or a bold stack, they’re a beautiful way to personalize your ear styling. With the right studio, jewelry, and aftercare, your helix piercing will look incredible for years to come.