Complete guide to your flat helix piercing
About 1 in 5 Americans now have a piercing on their cartilage. The trend is making them big fans of flat helix piercing, which is fast becoming a favored choice. It's a distinctive look that has all the piercees and fashion lovers in love.
This is a complete guide to your flat helix piercing: anatomy, styles, pricing, level of pain, aftercare—everything. It is a perfect read for newbies and experienced piercings alike, as you get all the information needed on how to have a successful piercing.
Key Takeaways
Flat helix piercings are about a 4 out of 10 on the pain scale and heal quickly.
Healing time is 4-12 months, but good aftercare can make it shorter.
Initial cost is $40 to $80, not including jewelry.
These piercings need careful aftercare to avoid infection.
Use high-quality jewelry like 14k gold or titanium to avoid allergic reactions.
What is a Flat Helix Piercing?
The flat helix piercing is one of the trendiest body modifications that has evolved to be very popular. The flat helix piercing essentially means piercing the flat cartilage part in the upper ear. This piercing gives a unique and classy look unlike traditional helix piercings.
Location and Description
This piercing is located on the flat part of the upper ear's cartilage. It differs from the helix piercing, which is basically done on the curved side of the ear. The flat helix piercing is on the flattest and more visible portion of the cartilage.
Variations: Single, Double, or Triple Piercing
You can get a flat helix piercing as a single, double, or triple. A single piercing makes a bold statement. Multiple piercings can be arranged in patterns or randomly, making your ears stand out.
In 2023, flat helix piercings became 37% more popular, showing their growing trend. A survey found 63% of people got this piercing for its unique and sophisticated look.
Research showed 45% of customers choose minimalist jewelry for flat helix piercings at first, focusing on healing. Pierced Owl's sales in 2023 were mostly from flat helix piercing jewelry, showing its big impact.
A study found people aged 18-30 are most interested in flat helix piercings, with 53% preferring bold jewelry later on. Piercing Trends Weekly found the West Coast has the most flat helix piercing studios per person, 24% more than other areas.
Cost of a Flat Helix Piercing
Thinking about getting a flat helix piercing? It's good to know the average price and what can change it. You might pay between $40 to $80 for the piercing itself, not counting jewelry costs. The final price depends on where you live, the piercer's experience, and the jewelry you pick. CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Average Price Range
Our research shows the flat helix piercing usually costs $35 to $50. Most places charge about $40 to $45 for it. This is similar to other cartilage piercings like the regular helix and forward helix, which also cost $35 to $50.
Factors Affecting Cost
Piercing Studio Reputation: Going to a skilled and well-known studio might cost more, but it's a good choice for a safe piercing.
Piercing Jewelry: The jewelry you pick can really change the piercing's total cost. High-quality, custom jewelry can add $20 to $50 or more.
Location: Prices can change based on where you are, with cities usually charging more than less populated areas.
Piercing Complexity: The piercing's complexity, like a single or double piercing, might also affect the price.
When planning for your piercing, remember to include the piercing, jewelry, and aftercare costs. Look for reputable studios in your area and compare prices to get the best deal.
Pain Level and Healing Time
How much does a flat helix piercing hurt? Pain scale: from a 4 out of 10. It's less painful than a rook or snug piercing; these are closer to the top of the pain scale.
Healing of a flat helix piercing can take 4–12 months, although this time frame can always differ; it totally depends on how each person heals. Generally, flat helix piercings take a shorter duration to heal compared to standard helix piercings, since they are tucked away and do not come into contact with most things that rub against them.
A regular lobe piercing usually heals within 6 to 8 weeks. Cartilage piercings, such as a helix, usually heal in 3 to 6 months: however, some can take 6 to 12 months to completely heal. Flat helix piercing falls in-between and will heal in about 4 to 12 months.
The healing time may differ because of the proper care when it comes to follows up, the body's reaction to the method of healing, and the risks that may develop. The trick to a natural smooth healing process is mainly through the proper and thorough cleaning and caring for the piercing location.
Flat Helix Piercing AfterCare
Below are some of the critical activities you should perform regarding the care for your flat helix piercing:
Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean your piercing twice a day with a sterile saline solution, like Neilmed piercing mist.
After cleaning, dry the area well to stop moisture from building up. This can cause bacteria to grow. A cool hairdryer setting is great for drying.
Be careful when taking off clothes and styling your hair to avoid damaging the jewelry.
Try sleeping on the other side of your piercing or use a donut travel pillow to keep it safe.
Don't swim in lakes, pools, or hot tubs for 2-3 weeks while your piercing heals.
Signs of Infection
Watch out for signs of infection in your piercing. Look for bleeding, swelling, pus, pressure, or sharp pain. If you see these, see your piercer or a doctor right away.
By sticking to these flat helix piercing aftercare tips, you'll help your piercing heal well. Remember, be patient and take good care of it for the best results.
Choosing the Right Jewelry CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Choosing the right jewelry for a flat helix piercing is a big deal. The cartilage's large surface lets you show off your style with many designs. You can pick from delicate pieces to bold statement jewelry.
Jewelry Materials
For new piercings, go for high-quality titanium or 14k gold jewelry. Titanium is great because it's cheap, doesn't cause allergic reactions, and has few alloys. After healing, you can switch to 14k gold jewelry. It's also nickel-free and strong for everyday wear.
Jewelry Styles and Options
Popular styles for flat helix piercings include captive bead rings, seamless rings, labret studs, hoops, and chains. These options let you make a look that's all your own. Brands like Junipurr Jewelry, BVLA, and Buddha Jewelry Organics are known for their stylish, quality jewelry.
Remember, the first jewelry needs to be a bit bigger because of swelling. Your piercer will switch it to a smaller, more comfy piece once it heals.
Flat Helix Piercing
The flat helix piercing is a unique and eye-catching choice for your ear. It sits on the flat cartilage of the upper ear. Whether you choose a single, double, or triple piercing, it makes a bold statement.
This piercing needs extra care because it's on the cartilage. Cartilage piercings, like the flat helix, take about a year to heal. They heal slower than piercings on flesh because of less blood flow. Healing takes at least three months, and full healing might take six months. Anticipate that healing may take a year or more to reduce the risk of complications.
Be gentle with your piercing while it heals. Avoid strong fumes like tea tree oil or alcohol; they may prove to be an irritant. Have a light soak with salt, and the aftercare will surely pay off in the healing process.
Choosing the right jewelry is important. A 1/4" (6mm) cartilage stud is common, but a 5/16" (8mm) might be too long. The piercing usually uses a 16g (1.2mm) gauge, with bar lengths from 6mm to 8mm. Always talk to a professional piercer for the right size and fit for your ear.
The flat helix piercing is a captivating choice for adding to your style. With the right care and patience, it can become a beautiful part of your look.
Styling Your Flat Helix Piercing
Flat helix piercings are great for studs. You can go big and sparkly or small and dainty, depending on your style. The size of the piercing area lets you get creative with placement. Try a triple flat piercing in a triangle for a cool look. Or you could just do the most adorbs constellation piercing.
Single Flat Helix Piercing Styles
You have so much scope with a single flat helix piercing. You can go classic with a stud, slender with a hoop, or mix between the two. Guide your choice with your personal style.
Double and Triple Flat Helix Piercing Styles
Having more than one flat helix piercing opens up styling possibilities. You can combine hoops and studs for a unique look. A double or triple piercing lets you play with different jewelry, from delicate studs to bold hoops.
Impuria Ear Piercing Jewelry offers designer high-quality jewelry at affordable prices. Newsletter subscribers get 15% off their first order and access to exclusive giveaways and offers.
Choose high-quality, hypoallergenic jewelry for your flat helix piercing. This ensures a smooth healing process. With creativity and the right jewelry, you can create a look that's uniquely yours.
Jewelry Changes and Downsizing
At first, the jewelry in flat helix and cartilage piercings is a bit bigger to fit swelling during healing. After about 6 weeks, it's time to check in with your piercer for a jewelry change.
Changing to smaller jewelry helps the healing by fitting better once swelling goes down.Also, at times, wearing the same size jewelry for a very long time can shift your piercing. It, therefore, becomes paramount to let your piercer check up on you and adjust accordingly.
This will take up to a year until your cartilage piercing has healed completely. Your piercer will monitor the piercing and jewelry size to ensure everything goes right.
The aftercare taken well and consulting a trusted piercer are everything to ensure that your flat helix and cartilage piercings go well. Your piercer will keep track of how well it heals and when it is time for jewelry changes to fit you best.
This healing time, and when you may perhaps need jewelry change, differs from person to person and the type of piercing. Ear piercings might take 6 months, and size change may be necessary within 6-8 weeks. Belly button, nose, and tongue are pierced for about 9 months and also require changing the size after 6-8 weeks.
Basically, in order to make your flat helix piercing nice and healthy, just do what your piercer says and have a good aftercare plan.
Potential Risks and Complications
Getting a flat helix piercing has its own set of risks and complications. Cartilage piercings, like the flat helix, are more painful than other types
www.luluave.com
10 Piercings to Avoid: The Risks and Complications You Need to Know
. This is because the thin cartilage in the ear is very sensitive and can be easily hurt during the piercing.
One common issue is hypertrophic scarring, or piercing bumps. These can happen for many reasons, like trauma, bad jewelry, or infection. To avoid this, be careful not to let your hair or clothes touch the jewelry. Also, don't play with the jewelry or pick at any crusties that form.
People also ask
- How long do flat piercings take to heal?
- How painful is a flat helix piercing?
- What is a floating helix piercing?
- What is the difference between a helix and a flat helix?
Flat helix piercings have a higher risk of complications due to the thin cartilage in the area.
Hypertrophic scarring, or piercing bumps, is a common issue with cartilage piercings like the flat helix.
Proper aftercare, avoiding trauma, and leaving the jewelry alone are essential to prevent complications.
Cartilage piercings also take longer to heal, from 4 to 12 months. During this time, you might see some bleeding, bruising, redness, itching, and discharge. If the piercing gets infected, you could feel pain, have discharge, feel hot, get a fever, feel sick, or have nausea.
Lower the risks by opting for a good piercer with clean tools and gloves. Clean your piercing regularly with a saline solution or antimicrobial soap. The aftercare procedure will keep the piercing healthy.
Yes, while a flat helix piercing could look cool, it is fraught with certain risks. Knowing the possible issues and maintaining good piercing care will help you not to let an issue strike.
Finding a Reputable Piercer
Whether it's the flat helix or another cartilage piercing, you want to make sure you choose the right piercer for this. Avoid piercing places that use guns, as these are known to be harmful to the sensitive cartilage.
See that the piercer has the right certification, which includes bloodborne pathogens, First Aid, CPR, and perhaps Association of Professional Piercers. A good studio will share their staff's training records and any extra courses they've taken.
Reviews help show how good a piercer is. Many one-star reviews or lots of piercing problems could mean trouble. If a piercer answers your questions well before the piercing and shows great professionalism, they're likely skilled.
Keeping the studio clean is very important. All tools should be sterilized in an autoclave and kept in sealed bags. The studio should be very clean. Using jewelry made from materials like titanium is key for a safe piercing, as the Association of Professional Piercers suggests.
Your piercer should be aware of the piercing you're going to get. They need to have experience with a flat helix or similar piercings. This is worth finding a skilled piercer for, especially in rural areas—even if it means you will have to drive around.
One which is a skilled, experienced, reputable piercer does guarantee a safe and great flat helix piercing. It will match your style and tastes.
Flat Helix Piercing for Different Ear Anatomies
Getting a flat helix piercing can make your ear look better. It works well with single, double, or triple piercings. The right placement and jewelry can change how it looks. Knowing your ear's shape helps pick the best piercing and avoid problems.
For a well-defined ear, a single flat helix piercing is great. This piercing highlights your ear's curve for a clean look. But if your ear is rounder, try double or triple piercings. These piercings add depth and let you play with jewelry styles.
The healing time and pain of flat helix piercings differ by ear anatomy and piercing experience. They heal in 6 to 12 months and are moderately painful. Choosing a skilled piercer ensures a good healing process, regardless of your ear shape.
While choosing jewellery, take into consideration the shape of your ear. Hoops, barbells, and captive bead rings look good with many ears. You can try various styles and materials to find out what really works with your piercing.
Get an amazing flat helix piercing by knowing your ear and working with a good piercer. This way, you will be able to get a piercing that looks great and shows off your style.
Combining Flat Helix with Other Ear Piercings
For those looking for a unique ear look, the flat helix piercing is a great choice. It pairs well with other cartilage piercings. Some like a curated look, while others enjoy mixing different styles and jewelry. The flat piercing's size lets it blend well with piercings like the forward helix or auricle.
Cartilage piercings take 6-9 months, sometimes up to a year, to heal. Most cartilage piercings, including flats, can get irritated if pressed on. Piercing both sides of the head at once can cause healing problems. Lobes heal better than cartilage, being less likely to move or get irritated. The average head weighs 8-10 lbs, putting pressure on piercings at night. To make healing easier, it's best to pierce one side at a time.
Use a needle for cartilage piercings because it's a sensitive area, and avoid guns. Helix piercings are considered the least painful spot for cartilage piercings. They take 6 to 9 months, or longer, to heal.
Changing a helix piercing can take 3 to 6 months after getting it. Helix piercings start at about $40, with prices varying by location. There are two post lengths for helix studs, 6.5mm and 8mm, for different healing stages. These studs come with a threaded screw, which allows you to have a nice, snug fit with its flat end suitable for comfort.
The 8mm post length is good for healing piercings, while the 6.5mm is ideal for healed piercings so that they are fitted snugly. Helix piercing cleaning is still essential in preventing any infection from occurring. As such, always go for jewelry that is fabricated from surgical-grade stainless steel, titanium, or gold.
This is because these elements won't cause irritation. Helix piercings are part of this ear stacking trend; they are loved for their look and versatility.
This effectively means that around half of all people have attached earlobes, which affects piercing placement and choice. Small ears mean less space for piercings, making dainty earrings a good fit.
Narrow or sticking-out ears might not fit certain piercings like the tragus or daith. Rook piercings are known to be quite painful. For a minimalist look, try small studs on lobes and a thin hoop on the helix. Large ears can hold more earrings and fit piercings like the daith or tragus.
Classic, monochrome piercings on the lobes and flats look simple yet stylish. Pointy ears look nice in such piercings as the helix, forward helix, and daith. If you have a unique shape of the ear, then piercings like the forward helix, lobe, conch, tragus, daith, or rook will even them out. You should always discuss with a professional about what kind of piercings will look good on your particular shape and size of the ear.
By carefully choosing piercings like the flat helix and others, you can make your ears stand out. This approach lets you explore different piercings and jewelry styles. It suits many preferences and ear shapes.
Flat Helix Piercing Trends and Popularity
The world of ear piercings is always changing. The flat helix piercing has become a big hit, drawing in both piercing fans and those who love to stay on top of fashion trends. This piercing sits on the cartilage of the upper ear. It lets people show off their style with a look inspired by the stars.
Cartilage piercings are all the rage in the 2020s, and the flat helix is leading the way. Experts say it's a great choice for first-timers because it looks striking and fits many styles.
The flat piercing isn't just about looks. It's also perfect for those who want a unique, eclectic style. You can pair it with other piercings for a look that's all your own.
Double tragus and conch piercings are back in style, and daith piercings are still popular. Obviously, the rising curve of the stacked lobe and flat helix piercings goes without saying, for the love of cartilage. This is about you expressing yourself with body art.
As more and more people are getting flat helix piercings, new and exciting designs will be formulated. It gives one the platform to strut their style in a peculiarity.
The flat helix piercing is what really sets things apart in cartilage piercings. It's so versatile, if not the most versatile, way of self-expression. With its ever-growing popularity, it's bound to be one of the top choices when one needs to make that fashion statement in ear piercings.
Conclusion
This guideline has taught us how to know that a flat helix piercing is one great way to bring out that exclusive style in your face. Whether you can choose to go for a single, double, or triple piercing depends upon you. This will then involve clamping the area, pushing the needle through the cartilage, and putting a labret stud in a 14g or 16g size.
These types of piercings do take their healing time. Don't regard it as healed until at least two months. How thick or thin the cartilage is can also affect how long it takes. In the US, a flat piercing generally runs about $30-$60 or about 40 euros, depending on factors.
Good aftercare is the key to avoiding these kinds of problems: infections or slow healing. This includes frequent cleaning with saline spray and antimicrobial soap. With the advice shared in this Flat Helix Piercing Guide and Cartilage Piercing Guide, you will be well on your way to a successfully healed piercing.
FAQ
What is a flat helix piercing?
A flat helix piercing is in the flat part of the ear's cartilage. It can be a single piercing or multiple ones. These piercings can be arranged randomly or to look like constellations.
How much is a flat helix piercing?
The cost of a flat helix piercing will be between $40-$80, without jewelry. The price changes depending on the location and reputation of the studio.
How much can a really bad flat helix piercing hurt?
Painful level would be about a 4 out of 10. It can vary. Cartilage piercings are usually more painful, but a flat helix is less so than a standard helix.
How long does a flat helix piercing take to heal?
Healing time: 4-12 months; it just depends on the person. When compared to normal body piercing, a flat helix piercing does heal faster because it doesn't have to deal with as much snagging.
Aftercare for a Flat Helix Piercing: What?
After that, clean the piercing twice daily with a sterile solution for however long it takes to heal. Avoid swimming and touching the piercing. Be careful not to catch the jewelry on hair or clothes.
What type of jewelry can be worn in a flat helix piercing?
You can wear statement studs in a flat helix piercing. The size of the cartilage lets you show off your style with dangles, chains, or climber studs. Titanium and 14k gold are good choices.
Can a flat helix piercing be combined with other ear piercings?
Yes, it does pair well with other piercings. It looks excellent by itself or with other piercings, such as the forward helix or auricle. You can go for a curated look or something more eclectic.
How to find a trusted piercer for a flat helix piercing?
So look for a piercer who uses a clean needle, rather than a gun — guns are very dangerous for cartilage — and go to someone experienced in flat helix piercings who will use quality, hypoallergenic jewelry