Thinking about acquiring a cartilage piercing and tinkling up your pinky jewelry game? Here’s everything you need to know, such as the various styles available, and what to expect while you wait for your piercing to heal.
You probably have seen an ear with a number of ear piercings while scrolling through the Internet and social media platforms such as Instagram and Pinterest. Fashionistas are generally fond of ear cartilage-piercings because their addition adds personality to their look.
Cartilage ear piercing is one of the most popular types of body modification. They’re very straightforward to get pierced, offering a whole new level of hipster-ness to your style. There are many different cartilage options, each with its own distinctive aesthetic. The most popular include tragus piercing, conch piercing, and helix piercing.
No matter your new piercing, you must read this instructional guide first! You’ll learn info on such as different kinds of piercings and aftercare.
What is a Cartilage Piercing?
Cartilage-piercing is the process of puncturing the ear cartilage and inserting a piece of jewelry. The ear cartilage is the firm, flexible tissue that makes up the ear’s outer rim and is located above the earlobe. Unlike earlobe piercing is more complex and requires a skilled piercer who knows the right techniques.
How Long Does a Cartilage-Piercing Take to Heal?
Healing time can vary from person to person. On average, it takes about 3 to 12 months for this piercing to fully heal. During the healing process, you may experience some discomfort, redness, and swelling around the piercing site. It’s essential to follow proper aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of infection.
Piercing Healing Stages
Cartilage-piercing healing happens in several stages. The first stage is the inflammatory stage, which lasts about a week. During this stage, you may experience swelling, redness, and tenderness around the piercing site. The second stage is the proliferative stage, which lasts about three weeks. During this stage, new cells form around the piercing site, and the wound begins to heal. The third and final stage is the maturation stage, which can last for several months. During this stage, the wound fully heals, and the tissue around the piercing site strengthens.
When Can I Change My Piercing?
It’s essential to wait until your piercing is fully healed before changing your jewelry. Otherwise, you risk causing irritation, infection, and delaying the healing process. The healing time can range from 3-12 months, depending on the individual and the type of piercing. Here’s a general timeline of the cartilage-piercing healing stages:
First few days:
The piercing site will be sore, red, and swollen. You may experience some bleeding and discharge. Follow your piercer’s aftercare instructions and clean the area regularly with a saline solution.
First few weeks:
The swelling and soreness should start to subside, but the piercing will still be healing internally. Avoid sleeping on the piercing, wearing tight clothing that can rub against it, or exposing it to dirty environments.
First few months:
The piercing should be healing well, but you may still experience some occasional discomfort or discharge. Continue to clean the area regularly and avoid changing the jewelry until the piercing is fully healed.
After 6-12 months:
Your cartilage should be fully healed, and you can consider changing the jewelry if you wish. However, if you experience any pain, swelling, or discharge after changing the jewelry, it may be a sign that the piercing is still healing, and you should switch back to the original jewelry.
Cartilage-Piercing Earrings
When it comes to earrings, many options are available to suit your style and preference. However, it’s essential to choose the right type of jewelry for your piercing to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. Here are some tips for selecting earrings:
Material:
Choose high-quality jewelry from hypoallergenic materials such as surgical steel, titanium, or gold. Avoid cheap or low-quality jewelry that can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Style:
Select a comfortable style for your piercing that won’t catch on clothing or hair. Studs, hoops, and barbells are all popular options for cartilage-piercings.
Size:
Choose a size that’s appropriate for your piercing and won’t put pressure on the surrounding tissue. Your piercer can recommend the best size for your particular piercing.
Design:
Have fun with your cartilage earrings, and choose a design that reflects your personality and style. From simple studs to intricate hoops and dangles, the possibilities are endless.
Cartilage-Piercing Price
The cost can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the experience of the piercer, and the type of jewelry used. On average, you can expect to pay between $30-$100. It’s essential to choose a reputable piercer who uses high-quality, sterile equipment to minimize the risk of complications.
Infected Cartilage Piercing
While piercings are generally safe and well-tolerated, they can sometimes become infected if proper aftercare is not followed. Signs of an infection include redness, swelling, pain, discharge, and a fever. If you suspect your cartilage is infected, it’s essential to seek medical attention right away to prevent further complications. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or recommend other treatments to help heal the infection.
Recommended Article: The Ultimate Guide to a Memorable Piercing Experience
FAQs
How long does it take for cartilage-piercing to heal?
Cartilage-piercing usually takes around 6-12 months to fully heal. However, the healing time can vary depending on the individual’s body and how well they care for the piercing.
Can I change my cartilage-piercing after getting it done?
It’s recommended to wait for at least 6 months before changing your piercing. This allows enough time for the piercing to heal and prevents damage or infection.
How much does a cartilage piercing cost?
The cost of a cartilage-piercing can vary depending on the location and the piercing studio you choose. On average, the cost can range from $30 to $100.
What are the signs of an infected cartilage-piercing?
The signs of an infected cartilage piercing include redness, swelling, pain, discharge, and fever. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
What types of earrings are suitable for cartilage piercings?
After the piercing fully recovers, you can choose from various earring types, including studs, hoops, and captive bead rings. However, it’s important to choose an earring made of hypoallergenic material to prevent any allergic reactions or infections.
Conclusion
Cartilage piercings are a beautiful and unique way to express your style and personality. However, it’s essential to take proper care of your piercing to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can enjoy your piercing safely and with confidence.
