Mid Helix Piercing FAQ Info by APP Certified Piercers in NYC

Clementine Piercing offers mid 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.

A mid helix piercing is a cartilage piercing located in the middle section of the ear's outer rim. It is positioned between a standard helix piercing (higher on the ear) and the lower lobe area, making it a versatile and stylish option for ear curation.

A mid helix piercing is placed along the curved outer edge of the ear cartilage, roughly midway between the upper helix and lower lobe. The exact placement may vary depending on individual ear anatomy and piercer recommendations.

Yes, when performed by a professional piercer using sterile techniques and high-quality, implant-grade jewelry, mid helix piercings are generally safe. However, cartilage piercings heal more slowly than lobe piercings and require careful aftercare to prevent irritation bumps or infections.

A mid helix piercing is considered moderately painful due to the density of cartilage.

• Most people describe the sensation as a sharp pinch, followed by throbbing or tenderness for several hours to days.
• On a pain scale of 1 to 10, it is typically rated between 4 and 6.
• Healing soreness can persist for several weeks, but discomfort is manageable with proper aftercare.

Healing time for a mid helix piercing ranges from 6 to 9 months, though full healing may take up to a year for some individuals. Factors influencing healing include:

• Aftercare consistency (using sterile saline and avoiding unnecessary contact).
• Jewelry quality (implant-grade titanium, niobium, or gold reduces irritation).
• Lifestyle habits (avoiding pressure from sleeping, hair brushing, masks, or headphones).

Yes, mild swelling is normal in the first few weeks.

• Swelling can worsen due to pressure from sleeping, accidental bumps, or improper jewelry.
• If swelling persists beyond a few weeks or becomes excessive, consult a professional piercer.

• 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.

Common causes of piercing bumps include:

• Irritation from movement, such as sleeping on the piercing.
• Low-quality jewelry, which may cause allergic reactions.
• Over-cleaning or touching the piercing.
• Trapped bacteria or trauma, such as getting the jewelry caught on hair or clothing.

Switching to high-quality jewelry and maintaining gentle, consistent aftercare can help reduce irritation bumps.

• Flat-back studs or small barbells are recommended for initial healing.
• Once healed, you can switch to hoops or rings, but they should be properly fitted to avoid unnecessary movement.
• Jewelry should always be implant-grade titanium, niobium, or solid gold to minimize irritation and allergic reactions.

• Hoops should only be worn after the piercing is fully healed to avoid excess movement that can cause irritation or piercing bumps.
• Flat-back labrets or barbells are better for initial healing, as they are more stable.

• The most common gauge for a mid helix piercing is 16g, but some piercers may use 14g or 18g depending on anatomy.

• Wait at least 6-9 months before changing jewelry to avoid irritation and prolonged healing.
• Changing jewelry too soon can cause swelling, pain, or piercing bumps.
• If you’re unsure, visit a professional piercer for guidance.

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

• Yes, multiple helix piercings can be done in a single session, but:
• Healing time may be longer due to increased swelling and irritation.
• More aftercare is required to avoid over-cleaning or stressing the piercings.
• Placement should be discussed with your piercer to ensure enough space for future jewelry.

Companies like Claire’s, Studs, Rowan and Piercing Pagoda may offer mid 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.