Helix Piercing FAQ - Info by APP Certified Piercers in NYC

Clementine Piercing offers Helix Piercings in NYC. Johnny Pearce, one of the worlds 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.

Only remove the jewelry once your piercing is fully healed. For flat‑back studs, gently unscrew the top by twisting or, if it’s threadless jewelry, disengage the piece by pulling the flat‑back in the opposite direction from the top. Seek professional assistance if the jewelry feels stuck.

Healing typically takes 6‑12 months, depending on individual healing factors and aftercare.

These irritation bumps—sometimes called “piercing bumps” or “hypertrophic scar tissue”—are caused by irritation from touching, sleeping on the piercing, wearing a helmet, or repeated contact. They are usually temporary if addressed correctly, but prolonged irritation may cause them to persist or grow larger. Consult a professional if you suspect keloid formation.

A helix piercing is a cartilage piercing, most often located along the upper outer rim of the ear.

If you have a history of keloid scarring from cuts or injuries, you might be more prone to developing a keloid on your helix piercing. If you have never experienced keloid scarring, it is less likely. Consult your local APP member or dermatologist for professional advice.

The cost of a helix piercing ranges from $40‑$100 for the piercing service fee before adding the cost of jewelry. Prices vary depending on the studio, jewelry material (such as implant‑grade titanium or solid gold), and the piercer's expertise.

It is best to wait until your piercing is fully healed—or at least 6‑9 months—before changing jewelry to avoid irritation and complications.

Pain levels vary, but most describe it as a fast pinch followed by soreness. Cartilage piercings generally hurt more than earlobe piercings.

Ask your piercer for a "hidden" helix placement, specifying your preferred jewelry type and discreet positioning before the area is marked and pierced.

Not all studios offer hidden helix piercings with your preferred jewelry style. It’s best to check with reputable piercing studios in advance before booking.

Most helix piercings are done with a 16g, 14g, or sometimes 18g needle, depending on your anatomy and personal preference.

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

Only remove the jewelry once your piercing is fully healed. For flat‑back studs, gently unscrew the top by twisting; for threadless jewelry, disengage it by pulling the flat‑back in the opposite direction from the top. Seek professional assistance if necessary.

Companies like Claire’s, Studs, and Piercing Pagoda may offer helix piercings, but it is NEVER advised to use them. Professional studios with experienced, properly trained piercers using aseptic techniques and a sterile field are always recommended over minimally trained staff or piercing guns. Please use trusted resources like the “Find a Professional Piercer” search function on the Association of Professional Piercers website.

A helix piercing is located on the upper cartilage of the ear, most commonly along the outer rim.

Pain is person-dependent, but helix piercings are generally considered moderately painful—a fast pinch followed by soreness that may last for weeks.

Follow proper aftercare, avoid sleeping on the piercing, and minimize irritation. This means not touching or twisting the jewelry, rinsing gently with water and a sterile saline solution during showers, avoiding harsh cleansers, and staying well-hydrated.

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

Pain varies by individual, but most people describe helix piercings as moderately painful. Proper aftercare can help reduce prolonged discomfort.

It is best to wait at least 6‑9 months before switching to a hoop to prevent irritation or the development of irritation bumps.

Pain varies, but most people describe it as a moderate pinch that lasts briefly during the procedure.