Tragus Piercing FAQ

A close-up of a Tragus piercing with a kite-cut amethyst gemstone set in gold, accompanied by a gold feather-shaped earring in the background.

A tragus piercing is a cartilage piercing placed on the small, firm flap of cartilage in front of the ear canal. It has gained popularity for its distinctive placement and aesthetic appeal. Many individuals choose curved barbells, labret studs, or small hoops to enhance their overall ear styling.

A tragus and daith piercing combination involves adorning both the tragus and the daith—the innermost fold of the ear cartilage. This curated ear styling creates a balanced and stylish look, allowing for personalized jewelry choices that complement each other.

A surface tragus piercing is a variation where the jewelry passes through the skin adjacent to the tragus, rather than through the cartilage itself. This type of piercing often uses surface bars to minimize the risk of rejection or migration. Proper placement and aftercare are crucial for successful healing.

A tragus piercing typically takes 6 to 12 months to fully heal. Healing time depends on factors such as individual healing ability, immune response, and adherence to aftercare.

  • The healing process includes initial swelling, possible bruising, and gradual tissue regeneration.
  • Avoid unnecessary movement, pressure, or trauma, which can delay healing.
  • Using sterile saline solution and avoiding irritants such as earbuds, unwashed hands, or sleeping on the piercing significantly contribute to a smooth recovery.
  • Pain is generally moderate, as cartilage is denser than soft tissue.
  • Most people describe it as a sharp pinch followed by pressure.
  • Pain perception varies, but tragus piercings are slightly more painful than lobe piercings and less painful than industrial or snug piercings.
  • Proper aftercare, avoiding pressure, and using high-quality jewelry can reduce discomfort.

Swelling is a normal response after getting pierced. However, excessive or prolonged swelling may be caused by:

  • Improper aftercare
  • Allergic reactions to jewelry materials
  • Trauma to the piercing (e.g., sleeping on it or wearing tight earbuds)
  • Infection (signs include warmth, redness, or unusual discharge)
  • Use a sterile saline solution (pre-packaged, not homemade) twice daily.
  • Gently rinse around the piercing and allow it to air dry or use a clean, disposable paper towel.
  • Avoid touching, twisting, or rotating the jewelry to prevent irritation.
  • Do not use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, ointments, or harsh soaps, as these disrupt healing.
  • Keep pressure off the piercing by avoiding earbuds, tight headphones, or sleeping on the pierced ear.
  • Stick to high-quality jewelry made from implant-grade titanium, niobium, or solid gold to minimize irritation.
  • Maintain good hygiene and avoid introducing bacteria by washing hands before touching the piercing.
  • Expect occasional flare-ups of sensitivity, as cartilage piercings heal slowly.
  • The standard gauge for a tragus piercing is typically 16g (1.2mm) or 18g (1.0mm).
  • Some piercers may use a 14g for those preferring a thicker jewelry size.
  • Always consult your piercer before downsizing or upsizing jewelry.

If your tragus piercing is fully healed (at least 6-12 months), you can remove the jewelry by:

  • Gently unscrewing the top or back of the jewelry.
  • Using clean, dry hands to prevent introducing bacteria.

If the jewelry feels stuck or painful to remove, seek assistance from a professional piercer rather than forcing it out, which can cause irritation or injury.

Only change your tragus jewelry after full healing (6-12 months).

Follow these steps:

  • Wash hands thoroughly.
  • Ensure the new jewelry is implant-grade and free of sharp edges.
  • Gently unscrew and remove the existing jewelry. If it doesn’t come off easily, do not force it.
  • Insert the new jewelry carefully and secure it properly.

If you struggle to remove or insert jewelry, visit a professional piercer for safe assistance.

Rejection is rare for tragus piercings but can occur if:

  • The piercing is placed incorrectly.
  • The jewelry is too large or heavy.
  • There is consistent irritation or trauma to the piercing.

Choosing implant-grade jewelry and ensuring proper aftercare reduces rejection risks.

  • There is no scientific evidence supporting the claim that tragus piercings help with migraines or headaches.
  • Some individuals report anecdotal relief, possibly due to placebo effect or stimulation of pressure points.
  • Medical professionals do not consider tragus piercings an effective treatment for migraines.
  • Wait at least 6-12 months before changing your jewelry.
  • Changing jewelry too soon can lead to irritation, swelling, or prolonged healing.
  • It depends on ear anatomy and jewelry choice.
  • Some people experience discomfort with in-ear headphones during healing, especially if the jewelry is large or protruding.
  • Over-ear headphones are a better alternative while healing.
  • Earbuds can cause pressure and irritation on a healing tragus piercing.
  • If you must use them, opt for smaller, flexible earbuds and clean them regularly.
  • A tragus piercing typically ranges from $40 to $100, depending on:
    • Studio reputation
    • Piercer experience
    • Jewelry selection (implant-grade materials may cost more)
  • Aesthetic appeal—It adds a unique touch to curated ear styling.
  • Versatile jewelry options, from studs to hoops.
  • Low risk of migration compared to surface piercings.
  • Some individuals believe it helps with pressure points, but scientific support is lacking.