Triple Forward Helix Piercing FAQ
APP Certified Piercers NYC

Clementine Piercing offers triple forward 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 triple forward helix piercing consists of three individual cartilage piercings placed in a vertical row along the upper front part of the ear, near where the ear meets the head. This curated piercing style allows for creative jewelry choices, such as stacked studs, decorative gems, or a minimalist set of matching jewelry.

Yes, a triple forward helix piercing is considered moderately to highly painful due to three separate punctures through dense cartilage.

• Each piercing causes a sharp pinch, followed by soreness that may intensify when multiple piercings are performed in one session.
• Swelling and tenderness may be more pronounced than with a single forward helix piercing.

Healing time is 6 to 12 months, but may take longer since multiple piercings must heal simultaneously.

• Cartilage has limited blood supply, making healing slower than soft tissue piercings.
• Proper aftercare, high-quality jewelry, and avoiding pressure will support a smoother healing process.

A triple forward helix piercing is positioned on the outer front rim of the ear, near the temple, where the cartilage meets the side of the face.

• The piercings are stacked vertically in the forward helix area, creating a symmetrical and stylish look.

The cost of a triple forward helix piercing ranges from $40-$100 per piercing for just the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. (You can then multiply this by the number of forward helix piercings you want). Jewelry cost will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g. solid gold, implant-grade titanium) as well as piercer expertise.

Yes, you can get all three piercings in a single session, but some piercers may suggest spacing them out to:

• Reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Make the healing process more manageable.
• Minimize the risk of irritation or prolonged healing.

A triple forward helix piercing is generally more painful than a single forward helix piercing due to the cumulative stress on the cartilage.

• Many people report that each piercing feels slightly more intense due to localized swelling and sensitivity.

• The area is prepped thoroughly via alcohol or povidone iodine.
• A professional piercer marks the appropriate entry and exit points with a single-use sterile surgical marker.
• The area is pierced using a sterile, single-use, disposable needle, sometimes braced by a NRT or other various instruments.
• The piercer will then install sterile, implant-certified titanium or solid gold barbell through the newly created piercing channel and threads on the bead.
• Extreme precision is required.

• The initial sharp pain fades within a few days.
• Soreness and tenderness may persist for weeks or months.
• Occasional irritation may occur if pressure is applied (e.g., from masks, glasses, or sleeping positions).

Yes, they are more challenging to heal than single cartilage piercings due to:

• Three healing sites in close proximity.
• Cartilage's slow healing process due to limited blood supply.
• Higher likelihood of irritation from hair, glasses, or sleeping positions.

Diligent aftercare, patience, and avoiding trauma are crucial for a successful healing process.

A triple forward helix piercing is safe when performed by a professional using sterile techniques and high-quality jewelry. However, risks include:

• Improper aftercare (excessive touching, harsh cleaning solutions, or sleeping on the piercing).
• Low-quality jewelry (which may cause irritation or allergic reactions).
• Accidental trauma (snagging on hair, masks, or clothing).

Following expert aftercare guidelines will help prevent complications.

Wait at least 6 to 12 months before changing jewelry. Changing too early can lead to:

• Irritation or swelling.
• Prolonged healing or migration.
• Risk of hypertrophic scarring or keloids.

If in doubt, consult a professional piercer before changing jewelry.

The standard gauge for a triple forward helix piercing is 16g (1.2mm) or 18g (1.0mm).

• Initial jewelry: A flat-back labret stud with a longer post to accommodate swelling.
• Downsizing: After 3-6 months, the jewelry post can be shortened for a snugger fit.
• Material recommendation: Titanium, niobium, or solid gold to minimize irritation.