Industrial Piercing FAQ

Close-up of an ear featuring a striking industrial piercing with a straight barbell adorned with a row of sparkling pink baguette-cut gemstones. Below, a gold stud shaped like a small duck and another gold key-shaped earring.
An industrial piercing consists of two cartilage piercings connected by a single straight barbell, typically placed diagonally across the upper ear. This piercing is customizable, with variations in placement depending on anatomy, and requires careful aftercare to prevent complications due to its complexity.
Industrial piercings are often associated with boldness, individuality, and alternative styles. They are commonly chosen by those who appreciate unique and edgy body modifications.
  • Most people rate industrial piercings as moderate to high in pain due to the double cartilage puncture.
  • The piercing process involves a sharp initial pinch, followed by lingering soreness.
  • Healing discomfort may persist for several weeks, and cartilage piercings are prone to flare-ups of tenderness.
  • Healing typically takes 6 to 12 months, but it may take longer depending on aftercare and individual healing factors.
  • Cartilage has limited blood flow, which results in a slower healing process than soft-tissue piercings.
  • Avoid pressure, snagging, and trauma to prevent prolonged healing.
Persistent pain after 2 years may be due to:
  • Low-quality jewelry (consider upgrading to titanium or gold).
  • Chronic irritation from sleeping on it or trauma.
  • Undiagnosed issues like an embedded piercing or hypertrophic scarring.
A professional piercer can assess the problem and recommend a solution.
  • Yes, industrial piercings are one of the more difficult ear piercings to heal due to their placement and the fact that two piercings must heal together.
  • Movement from hair, headphones, and sleeping positions can increase healing time and cause irritation.
  • Use sterile saline solution twice daily.
  • Avoid touching, twisting, or sleeping on the piercing.
  • Do not use soap, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or homemade saline, as they can cause irritation and delay healing.
  • Keep hair, hats, and headphones from irritating the jewelry.
  • Stick to consistent saline cleanings.
  • Avoid pressure and movement (don’t sleep on the piercing).
  • Use high-quality, implant-grade jewelry to minimize irritation.
  • Expect occasional flare-ups during the healing process.
  • 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.
  • Most industrial piercings are done at 14g (1.6mm), but some piercers may use 16g (1.2mm) depending on anatomy.
  • Thicker jewelry provides more stability, while thinner jewelry may be more comfortable for some people.
  • It is recommended to wait at least 6 to 12 months before changing industrial piercing jewelry.
  • Changing jewelry too early can cause irritation and prolong healing.
  • Once fully healed, carefully unscrew one ball end and slide the jewelry out.
  • If the jewelry is stuck or painful to remove, visit a professional piercer to avoid causing damage.
  • The cost generally falls between $50 to $100, depending on:
    • The studio’s location.
    • The piercer’s expertise.
    • The type of jewelry used (titanium and gold cost more).
  • Yes, when performed by a professional piercer using sterile techniques and high-quality jewelry.
  • Choosing a reputable piercer and following proper aftercare minimizes risks of infection, migration, or irritation.
  • Claire’s is NOT recommended for industrial piercings.
  • Piercing guns are unsuitable for cartilage piercings, as they can cause trauma, poor healing, and complications.
  • Always go to a professional studio where piercers use a sterile, single-use needle.
  • Mild itching is normal during healing but could indicate:
    • Healing tissue regeneration.
    • Jewelry irritation (nickel sensitivities).
    • Overcleaning or excessive dryness.
  • If itching persists or worsens, check jewelry material or consult a piercer.
  • Yes, industrial piercings can become infected if exposed to bacteria or excessive irritation.
  • Symptoms of infection include:
    • Persistent swelling, redness, or heat.
    • Yellow or green discharge with an unpleasant smell.
    • Pain that worsens instead of improving.
  • If infection symptoms appear, consult a professional piercer or healthcare provider.
  • 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.
  • While rejection is rare, industrial piercings can migrate due to:
    • Improper jewelry placement.
    • Chronic irritation or movement.
    • Low-quality jewelry or allergic reactions.
  • Wearing implant-grade titanium or gold jewelry and avoiding excessive trauma reduces the risk of migration or rejection.