Conch piercings are highly popular due to their delicate design and the striking way they adorn the ear. Additionally, they are versatile and can be paired with a customized ear setup or worn alone. These cartilage piercings get their name from the large spiral shape of the ears.
There are various placement and jewelry type options available for Conch piercings, such as inner or outer placement, and the use of studs or hoops. While Conch piercings can be beautiful and Instagram-worthy, they can be intimidating for some individuals.
It's important to know the pain, cost, aftercare, and the process of the Conch piercing before making the decision to get one. This article will provide comprehensive information on everything you need to know about Conch piercings so that you can make an informed decision.
What is a Conch Piercing?
Conch piercings are a highly versatile option as they can be combined with other piercings to create a unique style. They are also perfect for wearing on their own, making your ear the focus. Some tips to consider when choosing a conch piercing:
- Consider the shape of your ear. If you have a smaller ear, it may be better to opt for an inner conch piercing. On the other hand, if you have a larger ear, an outer conch piercing may be more suitable.
- Choose appropriate jewelry for your piercing. You can go for a stud or a hoop. Studs are ideal for inner conch piercings as they are easier to place. Hoops are better for outer conch piercings as they allow you to adjust the size and thickness of the jewelry.
- Keep in mind the pain and cost. Conch piercings are usually more painful than other types of piercings as they are placed in the cartilage, which is harder than skin. The cost can also vary depending on the type of jewelry and the professional doing the piercing.
- Be careful with the piercing during healing. Conch piercings may take longer to heal than other types of piercings. Make sure to follow your professional's instructions and clean them regularly to avoid infections.
Healing Time and Pain
It's difficult to determine the exact degree of pain a conch piercing may cause, as everyone has different pain tolerance. Any type of piercing can be painful to some extent. However, conch piercings are done in the ear cartilage, which has thicker flesh, making them generally more painful than lobe piercings. Although pain can vary from person to person, it is generally about the same as other parts of the ear and is not intense.
In general, cartilage piercings take longer to heal than lobe piercings, which usually take between two to four months.
The most effective way to ensure that any piercing heals naturally is to follow good post-operative care.
Conch Piercing Cost
Depending on where you get the piercing and the type of jewelry you choose, the cost of a conch piercing can vary. As a general rule, the cost of a conch piercing ranges between 35 and 50 euros.
Aftercare
There is always a risk of inflammation or infection when piercing cartilage. It is very important to follow the proper post-piercing care and to clean the piercing at least twice a day with a clean saline solution. Additionally, it's important to avoid tampering with or altering the piercing, even if you really like the new jewelry. It is also crucial to ensure that the piercing is done as sterilely as possible and to keep the area clean and free of infections.
If you sleep on your side, it's advisable to avoid lying on the side of the piercing until it is fully healed. Sleeping on the piercing can cause irritation and hinder the healing process. Moreover, it's recommended to apply an antimicrobial soap to the pierced area daily and to fully dry the area after cleaning it. If you notice swelling that does not improve or pus, it's important to visit a doctor to determine if there is an infection in the area.
How to Change a Conch Piercing
It's essential not to touch the new piercing until it's fully healed, which usually takes between six to nine months. When you decide to change the jewelry for the first time, it's recommended to go back to the person who did the initial piercing. This way, you can ensure the piercing is completely healed and ready for a jewelry change, and avoid any subsequent injuries. Additionally, the piercer can give you tips for at-home care, depending on the type of earring you're wearing.
What Type of Jewelry is Used for a Conch Piercing?
- Studs are excellent options for internal conch piercings because they are small and comfortable, and are easy to change at any time. Piercing artists use a stud for the initial piercing. However, once healed, it can be adorned with jewelry that could be a hoop or a bar, depending on the position and anatomy of the person receiving it.
- Hoops are a popular choice for conch piercings, especially outer rim ones, as they come in many varieties. They are not suitable for an initial piercing, as they can cause irritation and excessive movement.
What Type of Material Should I Choose for My Conch Piercing?
- Implant-Grade Stainless Steel: This is one of the safest metals for a new implant, as it is non-allergenic and specifically designed for safe use in the body. It's advised to avoid low-quality jewelry that could cause an allergic reaction. At Luna, we again strongly recommend waiting until your piercing is fully healed before changing it. If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to ask your piercer.
- Titanium for Implants: Another metal for implants. If you are allergic to nickel, titanium may not be the ideal solution, as it contains trace amounts of nickel. As a general rule, titanium should ALWAYS be preferred for the first piece of jewelry after piercing.
- Platinum, Gold, and Platinum: High-quality metals like platinum and gold are an extremely safe option. It's always worth paying more for a high-quality product. Avoid gold-plated jewelry, which can flake off and cause infections if not fully healed.
Conch Piercing and Acupuncture
There is anecdotal evidence suggesting that conch piercings help migraine sufferers, but the American Migraine Foundation wishes to underline that there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Additionally, anxiety sufferers have suggested that conch piercings may help them, and although no study has proven that piercings help reduce anxiety, there is a relationship between acupressure and acupuncture (i.e., the application of pressure on specific areas of the human body) and anxiety treatment.