Everything You Need to Know About Helix Piercing (Including Hidden Helix)
If you’re looking to elevate your ear game with a bold yet elegant piercing, the helix piercing is a top choice. Popular among jewelry lovers and trendsetters alike, helix piercings offer a versatile canvas for self-expression using hoops, studs, and cuffs. From standard placements to the lesser-known hidden helix piercing, this guide covers everything you need to know before getting pierced.
What Is a Helix Piercing?
A helix piercing is a type of cartilage piercing located on the outer rim of your ear. The helix begins just above the lobe and curves around the top edge of the ear. Due to its position and shape, this area can be pierced in multiple ways—allowing for single, double, or even triple helix piercings.
It’s one of the most requested cartilage piercings because it:
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Heals relatively quickly compared to other cartilage placements
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Is suitable for a variety of jewelry types
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Works well for both minimalist and curated ear styles
Helix piercings are typically performed using a hollow needle for precision, cleanliness, and faster healing compared to piercing guns.
Types of Helix Piercings
There’s more than one way to pierce the helix. Here are the most common options:
1. Standard Helix Piercing
Placed along the upper outer ear cartilage. Ideal for hoops or studs and commonly paired with other ear piercings for a layered look.
2. Double or Triple Helix
Multiple piercings stacked vertically along the helix. This setup allows for creative jewelry combinations and is popular in curated ear designs.
3. Forward Helix Piercing
Located on the front side of the ear where the cartilage meets the face, just above the tragus. This piercing is stylish on its own or in multiples.
4. Hidden Helix Piercing
As the name suggests, the hidden helix is a discreet variation located behind the upper cartilage rim, making it visible mainly from the back or side angle. It’s an elegant surprise element and great for people who want something subtle or unique.
Why Get a Hidden Helix Piercing?
The hidden helix is gaining popularity among professionals or minimalists who want a piercing that doesn’t dominate their look. Here’s why it might be the right choice for you:
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Low visibility makes it perfect for conservative settings
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A unique option for those seeking non-traditional placements
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Can be styled with flat-back studs or micro hoops
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Pairs beautifully with daith, rook, or conch piercings for a layered aesthetic
Healing time and care are similar to standard helix piercings, though because of its more tucked-away position, cleaning might require a bit more attention.
Jewelry Options for Helix & Hidden Helix Piercings
Helix piercings are incredibly customizable. Popular jewelry styles include:
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Flat back studs – Great for initial healing and daily wear
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Seamless hoops or clickers – For a clean, elegant loop
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Gemstone clusters – Add sparkle and dimension
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Chains or cuffs – For stacking or connecting multiple piercings
We recommend high-quality materials such as implant-grade titanium, 14k gold, or gold-filled for reduced irritation and long-term wear.
Healing & Aftercare Tips
Healing time for helix piercings is typically 6 to 12 months, depending on your body and how well you care for it. The hidden helix may take closer to the full 12 months due to lower airflow and contact with hair.
Follow these aftercare steps:
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Clean twice daily with sterile saline or a wound wash
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Avoid sleeping on the pierced side
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Don’t twist or touch the jewelry
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Avoid headphones or hats that put pressure on the piercing
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Watch for signs of infection like redness, swelling, or discharge
Always follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your professional piercer.
Where to Get a Helix Piercing Near You
Look for studios that use needle piercing rather than a piercing gun, as this is safer and causes less trauma to cartilage. A good studio should offer:
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Sterile equipment and single-use needles
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Professional, licensed piercers
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Implant-grade jewelry options
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Private, clean environments
At Nina Wynn Piercing Studio, our expert piercers specialize in safe, luxury cartilage piercing experiences. We offer curated ear styling, high-quality jewelry, and healing support throughout your journey.
FAQ: Helix Piercing Questions Answered
1. Does a helix piercing hurt?
It involves a bit more pressure than a lobe piercing but is generally tolerable. Most describe it as a sharp pinch followed by slight soreness.
2. What’s the difference between helix and hidden helix?
Standard helix is more visible on the ear’s rim; the hidden helix is tucked behind the ridge and more discreet.
3. Can I wear hoops right away?
We recommend starting with a stud for healing. Hoops can put pressure on the area and increase the risk of complications.
4. How long does it take for a helix piercing to heal?
Anywhere from 6 to 12 months. Cartilage takes longer to heal than soft tissue.
5. Can I get multiple helix piercings at once?
Yes, many people opt for double or triple helix piercings in one sitting, depending on your pain tolerance and healing strategy.
6. Is it safe to get a helix piercing with a gun?
No. Cartilage should always be pierced with a needle. Piercing guns can shatter the cartilage and increase infection risk.
7. Can I sleep on my helix piercing?
Avoid sleeping on it until it’s fully healed to prevent pressure, irritation, or jewelry migration.
8. What’s the best jewelry for a hidden helix piercing?
Flat-back studs are ideal. Choose low-profile styles in titanium or 14k gold for comfort and healing.
9. How do I clean my helix piercing?
Use sterile saline solution. Avoid alcohol, peroxide, or harsh soaps.
10. Where can I get a curated ear with helix and other piercings?
At Nina Wynn Piercing Studio, we specialize in custom ear curation—whether it’s a hidden helix, double conch, or daith piercing. We’ll help you design your dream ear.
