You've taken a big step and decided to get a helix piercing, a modern and discreet choice. It's an excellent option for a first-time cartilage piercing experience. However, the jewelry you currently wear might not be entirely to your liking. Perhaps you aspire to wear a hoop or a small earring. No problem, we're here to help. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of changing your helix piercing, sharing helpful tips and tricks.
Understanding the helix: a quick anatomical review
Before discussing the process of changing your helix piercing, it's important to understand what the helix is. It's the part of the ear located on the outer edge of the cartilage, a thin and curved region that extends from the top of the lobe to the base of the skull. To locate it more easily, here's an image for you to download.
When to change your helix piercing?
The question that often arises after getting a helix piercing is: "When can I change my jewelry?" Generally, piercers advise waiting until the end of the healing period, which can last up to six months.
However, if you're eager to change it earlier, you can do so after about 2 to 3 months, as long as the change is performed by a professional. Just make sure your new jewelry is made of gold, titanium, or stainless steel to avoid any allergic reaction and promote good healing.
Tip:
To check if your cartilage has healed properly before removing your piercing, make sure you meet these 4 criteria:
- The color of your ear hole should be normal.
- You shouldn't feel any pain or sensitivity.
- Your ear shouldn't be swollen.
- There should be no clear or yellowish fluid when you clean.
How to change your helix piercing?
It might seem intimidating to change your helix piercing for the first time, but don't worry. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you.
Step 1: Adhere to hygiene standards
Before touching your piercing, make sure to disinfect it well and wash your hands thoroughly.
Step 2: Remove the old jewelry
It might be helpful to have someone assist you with this. Don't hesitate to use tweezers if the jewelry is too tight.
Step 3: Insert the new jewelry
Open your new piercing and place it in the hole of your ear.
Step 4: Close properly
Ensure that the jewelry is securely closed. And that's it!
If you run into any issues, don't hesitate to ask your piercer for help. It's always a good idea to seek assistance from a professional if you're unsure about what you're doing.
Choosing the Right Jewelry for Your Helix
Now that you know how to change your helix piercing, it's time to discuss the fun part: choosing your new piece of jewelry. The hoop is a timeless, go-to choice. It allows for layering, with 6mm and 8mm diameters being particularly popular. If you prefer something more subtle, why not opt for a small stud?
The Importance of Choosing Quality Jewelry for Your Helix
When it comes to switching out your helix piercing, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the type of jewelry you're going to choose. The quality of the jewelry can greatly impact not just the appearance of your piercing, but also the health of your ear.
Preferred Materials
Hypoallergenic jewelry is the top recommendation for a helix piercing. Gold, titanium, and stainless steel are excellent choices due to their low risk of causing an allergic reaction.
Gold is a precious and durable metal that's generally well-tolerated by the skin. Titanium is also a top choice due to its corrosion resistance, making it ideal for piercings. Plus, it's lightweight, making it comfortable to wear. Stainless steel is also a good choice as it's durable and rust-resistant.
Materials to Avoid
It's advised to steer clear of jewelry made from cheap materials like nickel or certain types of plastics. These materials can cause irritations or infections. Some may even trigger an allergic reaction, especially in sensitive individuals.
Maintaining Your Helix Piercing: Tips and Tricks
Once you've switched out your jewelry, it's crucial to maintain good hygiene to foster ongoing healing and prevent infections. Here are some tips and tricks for looking after your helix piercing:
Regular Cleaning
It's essential to clean your piercing regularly, even after the healing period has passed. Use a saline solution to gently cleanse the area daily. This will help to get rid of bacteria and keep your piercing clean.
Avoid Touching Your Piercing
It might be tempting to play with your new jewelry or touch it frequently, but try to resist this urge. Touching your piercing can introduce bacteria to the area, leading to an infection.
Pay Attention to Your Piercing's Appearance
Closely monitor the look of your piercing. If you observe redness, swelling, pain, or unusual discharge, it could be an infection. In such cases, it's advised to see a healthcare professional or experienced piercer.
By following these tips, you can ensure your helix piercing remains healthy and continues to look great.
In Conclusion
We've reached the end of our comprehensive guide on how to change your helix piercing. I hope you found this information helpful and now feel more at ease with the idea of switching out your jewelry.
Now that you're ready to change your piercing, feel free to browse our collection of helix jewelry. Our pieces suit all ears and add a touch of sparkle once worn.
Remember, the key is to take care of your piercing, respect the healing stages, and opt for hypoallergenic materials for your jewelry. This way, you can ensure a pleasant and trouble-free helix piercing experience.