Forward Helix Piercing
- Expression and Style

Like any other cartilage piercing, a helix piercing should be a well-considered choice and taken seriously.

The Forward Helix is a type of piercing performed on the cartilage section of the ear, along the upper rim. It’s important to note that the helix refers to a relatively large area of cartilage at the top of the ear, while a forward helix piercing is positioned just before a standard helix piercing. This type of piercing can look stylish and aesthetically pleasing, with design variations achievable through different jewelry options, such as rings or bars with various decorative ends.

The very first question often asked by people who have decided to get a cartilage piercing is how painful it is.

In reality, cartilage tissue is free from nerve endings, which generally means there is no particularly intense pain. However, as always, it’s an individual experience, and everyone has a different pain threshold. For this reason, a piercer can use local anesthesia if needed.

Another frequently asked question concerns the healing time of the piercing. There is no definitive answer here, as the timeline can vary for each person. The most important thing is to take proper care of the piercing, following all recommendations from the piercer (we will discuss these in detail later). Healing can take several months or even up to a year, so it’s essential to choose a qualified piercer whom you can consult for follow-ups and advice during the healing process.

Another common question is about choosing the perfect jewelry, especially the first piece right after piercing.

While it’s impossible to recommend specific jewelry styles, a few tips are helpful. Ensure that the jewelry is small and as comfortable as possible, without additional decorative elements. After piercing cartilage, it’s crucial to have jewelry that minimizes movement to avoid tissue damage.

Which jewelry is suitable for this type of piercing is also a frequently asked question, but the answer is straightforward. Jewelry options for a forward helix piercing include rings, barbells, studs, and labrets—it all depends on the wearer’s preference. Men often opt for simple rings without added elements, while women’s jewelry varies more in style and design. It’s generally best to choose minimalist options as the initial piece, such as plug-style studs, to minimize irritation and help the ear heal.

It’s essential to remember that ongoing and thorough care of the piercing is required to make the healing process as quick and comfortable as possible.

Immediately after the piercing, avoid getting it wet, so try not to wash your head for the first 2–3 days. Additionally, try to avoid physical activities that could cause excessive sweating. Minimize contact of the piercing with hair, clothing, and headwear, and if possible, avoid sleeping on the side with the piercing.

The first month is the most challenging, as you’ll need to keep a close eye on the piercing, avoid swimming in open water, and refrain from visiting public places such as pools and saunas. Try to limit water contact to the minimum necessary, care for the piercing consistently and correctly with specialized products, and avoid twisting or turning the earring. If you notice any changes to the tissue around the piercing—such as swelling, redness, or signs of infection—contact a specialist immediately.

After two to three months post-piercing, if no complications arise, you can breathe a bit easier as this marks the beginning of the healing phase.

During this period and until full healing, it’s crucial to follow simple rules: treat the piercing carefully with specialized products, avoid contamination and injury, avoid pressing on the piercing area, and don’t change the jewelry (unless under the piercer’s supervision, if they approve).

With any piercing, it's essential to choose a qualified specialist, both for the procedure itself and for ongoing guidance until full healing. A reliable piercer is key to a successful result.