Forward Helix Piercing FAQ By APP Certified Piercers in NYC

Clementine Piercing offers forward helix piercings in NYC. Johnny Pearce, one of the world's top rated and most trusted piercing professionals, holds tenure at Clementine Piercing in NYC—making it an excellent option for trusted piercing services.

Look for professional, APP-certified piercing studios with:

• Experienced piercers familiar with technical piercings
• Strict hygiene and sterilization protocols
• Positive client reviews and portfolio examples

Please feel free to use trusted resources like the “Find a Professional Piercer” search function on the Association of Professional Piercers website.

A forward helix piercing is a cartilage piercing located on the upper front part of the ear, near where the ear meets the head, directly across from the standard helix area. It is placed along the outer rim of the ear near the temple and is often adorned with small studs or labret-style jewelry.

A forward helix piercing is positioned on the outer rim of the ear, near the temple, where the cartilage meets the side of the face. It differs from a traditional helix piercing, which is placed further back along the ear's outer edge.

Forward helix piercings are safe when performed by an experienced piercer using sterile techniques and high-quality jewelry. However, they can become problematic if:

• Improper aftercare (excessive touching, harsh cleaning solutions, or sleeping on the piercing) is followed.
• Low-quality jewelry (containing nickel or poor-quality coatings) is used.
• Trauma or irritation (from masks, hair, or accessories) occurs frequently.

Following expert aftercare advice minimizes risks and promotes safe healing.

Yes, forward helix piercings can be moderately painful due to the dense cartilage in the area. Most people describe the sensation as a sharp pinch followed by soreness that can last for several days. Cartilage piercings tend to be more painful than earlobe piercings due to the firmer tissue structure.

• Most people describe an intense but brief sharp pain, followed by a dull ache that can last for a few days to weeks as the cartilage heals.
• Pain is typically rated as moderate compared to other cartilage piercings.
• Tenderness may persist throughout the healing period, especially if irritated.

Healing time for a forward helix piercing generally ranges between 6 to 12 months. Factors that influence healing include:

• Consistent aftercare (using sterile saline solution and avoiding irritation).
• Jewelry quality (implant-grade titanium, gold, or niobium is recommended).
• Lifestyle factors (avoiding sleeping on the piercing, minimizing pressure from masks, hats, or glasses).

Healing varies from person to person, but patience and proper care will support a successful healing process.

Yes, forward helix piercings can be challenging to heal due to:

• Limited blood supply to cartilage, making healing slower.
• Irritation from hair, glasses, or masks, which can cause bumps or prolonged healing.
• Potential for swelling, requiring proper jewelry selection and downsizing after initial healing.

Diligent aftercare and patience are necessary for a successful healing process.

The initial sharp pain from the piercing procedure subsides within a few days. However, mild soreness, sensitivity, and occasional irritation can persist for several weeks or even months due to the slow-healing nature of cartilage tissue.

• Avoid any touching, twisting, or playing with the piercing site or jewelry.
• Gently rinse with water while you shower. Use sterile saline solution/wound wash spray as needed.
• Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antiseptics.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Avoid any touching, twisting, or playing with the piercing site or jewelry.
• Gently rinse with water while you shower. Use sterile saline solution/wound wash spray as needed.
• Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antiseptics.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Swelling is normal in the first few weeks but can be worsened by:
  • Sleeping on the piercing.
  • Jewelry that is too tight or too loose.
  • Accidental trauma (snagging, bumping, twisting).
• Reducing pressure, avoiding irritation, and using proper jewelry can help minimize swelling.

• Identify the cause (irritation, jewelry material, pressure).
• Continue using sterile saline solution and avoid overcleaning or harsh chemicals.
• If bumps persist, consult a professional piercer for evaluation and solutions.

It is best to wait at least 6-12 months before changing jewelry. Changing jewelry too early can lead to:

• Irritation or prolonged healing
• Increased risk of bumps or hypertrophic scarring
• Potential migration or rejection

Always consult with a piercer before making changes if you are unsure.

Once fully healed, carefully unscrew the jewelry ends and replace them with high-quality, implant-grade jewelry. If you experience difficulty removing the jewelry or are unsure if the piercing is fully healed, visit a professional piercer to prevent trauma.

• The standard gauge for a forward helix piercing is 16g (1.2mm) or 18g (1.0mm).
• Initial jewelry: A flat-back stud or labret with a longer post is recommended to accommodate swelling.
• Downsizing: After 3-6 months, the jewelry post can be shortened for a snugger fit.
• Material: Choosing implant-grade materials (titanium, niobium, or solid gold) ensures better healing and reduces the risk of irritation.

The cost of a forward helix piercing ranges from $40-$100 per piercing for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. Your jewelry cost which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g. solid gold, implant-grade titanium) as well as piercer expertise.

• A double forward helix piercing typically ranges from $60 to $150.
• A triple forward helix piercing may cost between $90 to $200, depending on the studio.
• The price may include basic jewelry, but high-quality jewelry upgrades can increase the total.

Yes, it is possible to get multiple forward helix piercings in one session. However, be aware that:

• Healing may take longer with multiple piercings.
• Swelling can be more pronounced, requiring initial jewelry with extra length.
• Increased irritation risk from daily activities like sleeping, hair styling, and wearing headphones.

If opting for multiple piercings, a professional piercer can assess your anatomy and recommend the best placement and healing strategy.

Companies like Claire’s, Studs, Rowan and Piercing Pagoda may offer forward helix piercings, but it would NEVER be advised or considered a safe choice for piercing. Professional studios who have real piercers who are properly trained for YEARS using aseptic technique and sterile field are always recommended over boutique store employees who only train for a few weeks and/or use piercing guns. Beware of companies who claim their piercers are all RN.

Please feel free to use trusted resources like the “Find a Professional Piercer” search function on the Association of Professional Piercers website.