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What is a Top Ear Piercing Called?
A top ear piercing is most commonly called a helix piercing. It’s placed on the upper outer part of the ear, right along the curved cartilage. This area is a popular spot for people who want something stylish but not too bold. Because it sits on the edge of the ear, a helix piercing can be easily shown off with hoops, studs, or small barbells. Many people also get multiple helix piercings stacked in a row, which is known as a double or triple helix. It's a flexible spot that lets you play with different looks depending on your jewelry choice.
While “helix” is the most common name, some people may refer to it more casually as a “top ear piercing” or just a “cartilage piercing.” You might also hear terms like forward helix, double helix, or triple helix — these just refer to the number or placement of piercings in the same area. A forward helix, for example, is still on the upper ear, but closer to the side of your face. A double or triple helix means having two or three piercings in a row along the upper curve. These combinations allow for a more personalized look. People love top ear piercings because they add character without taking up a lot of space, making them a favorite choice in ear-styling trends.
Types and Names of Top Ear Piercings
Here are the following main types of top ear piercings
1: Standard Helix Piercing
The standard helix piercing is the most classic type of top ear piercing. It’s placed along the upper outer rim of the ear cartilage. This area gives a clean, stylish look that works well with all types of jewelry—from tiny studs to small hoops. Many people choose it because it’s simple, elegant, and easy to style with other piercings.
It’s a flexible option for customizing your ear. Whether you want just one or plan to add more piercings later, the standard helix gives you a solid base to start with. You can wear it alone for a subtle touch or pair it with other ear piercings for a more layered design.
2: Forward Helix Piercing
The forward helix piercing sits at the front part of the upper ear, right where the ear connects to the side of your face. This spot is smaller and more tucked-in compared to the standard helix, giving it a delicate and neat look. It’s perfect for a single stud or a tiny gem that adds a subtle sparkle when you tuck your hair behind your ear.
Some people choose to get two or three forward helix piercings in a row, which creates a clean, vertical line of jewelry. This stacked style looks organized and modern, especially with matching studs. It’s a great option if you want something elegant and a bit different from the usual helix placement.
3: Double Helix Piercing
A double helix piercing includes two piercings along the outer upper rim of the ear, placed close together. This creates a cool stacked effect that’s more noticeable than a single helix but still sleek and not too crowded. You can match the jewelry for a uniform look or mix it up with different styles for a bit more personality.
It’s a fun option if you’re ready to add more flair to your ear without going for something too dramatic. A double helix can also be a step toward a fuller ear design, especially if you plan to build up your cartilage piercings over time. It adds balance and makes your ear look more styled.
4: Triple Helix Piercing
The triple helix piercing builds on the double by adding a third piercing along the top outer edge. It usually forms a tidy vertical or slightly curved row, depending on your ear shape. This setup creates a striking design with minimal effort—just three simple piercings in a row can make your ear look styled and complete.
You can go for identical jewelry to keep it uniform or mix different pieces for a playful, artistic feel. The triple helix is ideal if you want a full look without having to pierce multiple areas of your ear. It fills out the top part nicely and looks intentional and stylish.
5: Orbital Helix Piercing
An orbital helix piercing uses two holes in the helix area that are connected by a single hoop. This gives the illusion of the ring floating around part of the ear. Unlike having two separate earrings, the orbital links them together in one continuous loop, which adds a creative and modern twist.
It’s a unique look that stands out without being too flashy. Orbital piercings are perfect if you want something more than a basic stud or hoop but aren’t ready for a more dramatic style like the industrial. The round motion of the hoop gives your ear a bit of movement and design flair.
6: Industrial Piercing
The industrial piercing is one of the boldest styles. It involves two holes—usually one near the forward helix and the other on the upper helix—connected by a straight barbell. This bar runs diagonally across the top of your ear, making it a strong visual statement.
It’s often chosen by those who like alternative or edgy aesthetics. The bar can be plain or decorated with accents in the center, like charms or shapes. Since it crosses the ear, it immediately catches the eye and gives your ear a very structured, standout appearance.
How much is a Top Ear Piercing?
The cost of a top ear piercing is usually ranges between $30 to $70 depending on where you go. This price often includes the piercing service itself and basic jewelry, like a simple stud or hoop. However, if you choose higher-end jewelry made from titanium, gold, or other premium materials, the price can go up to $100 or more. Prices may also vary depending on the experience level of the piercer and the reputation of the studio.
It’s important to remember that cheaper isn’t always better when it comes to piercings. A reputable piercing studio will use sterilized equipment, high-quality jewelry, and have trained professionals to ensure your safety. Some studios charge separately for jewelry and aftercare products, so always ask what’s included in the total price. Spending a little extra for quality and hygiene is worth it to avoid problems later.
Does Getting the Top of Your Ear Pierced Hurt?
Top ear piercings are done through cartilage rather than soft tissue, which means they usually feel sharper than a regular earlobe piercing. On a pain scale from 1 to 10, most people rate a helix piercing around 4 to 6. The actual piercing only takes a second, and while it might feel like a quick pinch or pressure, the discomfort doesn’t last long. Some describe it as a strong squeeze followed by a warm or throbbing sensation for a few minutes.
Everyone experiences pain differently, so your personal tolerance plays a big role. If you've had other cartilage piercings or tattoos before, you might find the top ear piercing pretty manageable. The key is to stay relaxed and go to a professional piercer who works quickly and carefully. The slight discomfort is usually worth it for the stylish look that a top ear piercing gives.
How Long Does a Top Ear Piercing Take to Heal?
A top ear piercing, such as a helix, usually takes about 3 to 6 months to fully heal. In some cases, it may take up to 9 months, depending on your body’s healing speed and how well you care for it. Since it goes through cartilage (not soft tissue like the earlobe), it heals more slowly and can be sensitive for a while. During this time, it’s important to avoid sleeping on it, touching it with unclean hands, or changing the jewelry too early.
Good aftercare makes a big difference. Cleaning the piercing regularly with a saline solution, avoiding harsh products like alcohol or peroxide, and not twisting the jewelry can help prevent irritation or infection. Even if it looks healed on the outside, the inside may still be healing, so always follow your piercer’s advice and wait the full healing period before switching jewelry or skipping aftercare. Patience and proper care are key for a smooth healing process.
Top Ear Piercing Earrings
1. Stud Earrings
Stud earrings are one of the most common and beginner-friendly options for top ear piercings. They sit flat against the ear and are often small, simple, and elegant. Many people choose studs during the healing phase because they don’t move around much, which helps reduce irritation. You can find them in many styles – from tiny crystals and pearls to minimalist metal balls or cute shapes like stars and hearts. They're perfect if you want a clean and subtle look.
2. Hoop Earrings
Hoop earrings add a bit more flair to your top ear piercings. These are circular earrings that loop through the piercing hole and can range from tiny loops to bold statement sizes. For cartilage piercings like the helix, small hoops are more comfortable and stylish. They give your ear a sleek, edgy look and work well whether you're going for something casual or dressed up. Just make sure your piercing is fully healed before wearing large or heavy hoops.
3. Huggie Hoops
Huggie hoops are like tiny versions of regular hoops – they “hug” the earlobe or cartilage closely. These are especially popular for top ear piercings because they’re lightweight, secure, and super comfortable to sleep in. Huggies often come with small charms or stones, adding a bit of sparkle without being too flashy. If you want something simple but elegant, huggie hoops are a great choice.
3. Flat-back Labret Studs
Flat-back labret studs are specially designed for comfort in cartilage piercings. Instead of a traditional butterfly back, they have a flat disc that sits behind your ear. This prevents poking, irritation, or getting caught in hair or clothes. They're ideal for helix, forward helix, and conch piercings. You’ll often see these in piercing studios as the preferred jewelry during healing. Plus, they come in all sorts of tops—gemstones, opals, geometric shapes, and more.
4. Clicker Rings
Clicker rings are stylish and super easy to use. They have a hinge that “clicks” open and shut, so you don’t have to struggle with tiny beads or closures. These rings are great for healed helix, daith, and conch piercings. Clickers come in many designs, from simple metal finishes to ones decorated with crystals or patterns. If you love changing your look often, clicker rings make it quick and fuss-free.
5. Drop Earrings
Drop earrings add movement and elegance to your top ear. They hang slightly below the piercing and come in various styles – chains, beads, or tiny charms. Drop earrings are best worn in fully healed piercings because they can move around more than studs or hoops. They’re a beautiful way to dress up your ear for special occasions or to add a unique touch to your everyday style. Pair them with simple studs or huggies for a trendy layered look.
6. Chain Earrings
Chain earrings are one of the most eye-catching and modern styles for top ear piercings. These can hang from a single piercing or connect two piercings with a delicate chain. They add texture, dimension, and a bold fashion statement. You’ll find chain earrings with crystals, charms, or minimalist designs. Just like drop earrings, they work best in healed piercings. If you love creative, edgy looks, chain earrings are a must-try.
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How to Pierce the Top of Your Ear?
Getting a top ear piercing is an exciting way to upgrade your style, but it’s not something you should do at home. Cartilage is tougher than the earlobe and more prone to complications if pierced incorrectly. That’s why it’s always best to visit a professional piercer at a clean, reputable studio. However, if you're curious about what the process involves, here’s a simple breakdown of how it's typically done by a trained expert.
Steps to Pierce the Top of Your Ear:
- Consultation: The piercer discusses your desired placement, checks your ear shape, and helps you choose the right jewelry.
- Cleaning the Area: Your ear is thoroughly cleaned with an antiseptic solution to remove any bacteria and reduce infection risk.
- Marking the Spot: The piercer marks the exact point where the needle will go, and you’ll be asked to confirm the position.
- Sterilizing Equipment: A sterile, single-use hollow needle is prepared (never a piercing gun, which can damage cartilage).
- The Piercing: The needle is pushed through the cartilage, followed immediately by the jewelry being inserted.
- Final Clean-Up: The area is cleaned again, and you’ll be given aftercare instructions to follow at home.
A professional piercing is quick, clean, and much safer than doing it yourself. Trying to pierce the top of your ear at home can lead to infections, uneven placement, or long-term damage. For the best experience and proper healing, always trust a certified piercer who follows hygiene and safety standards.
How to Clean Your Top Ear Piercing?
Cleaning your top ear piercing properly is one of the most important steps to ensure it heals well and stays free from infection. Since cartilage piercings take longer to heal than earlobe piercings, regular and gentle cleaning is key. You don’t need fancy products—just a simple, consistent routine with the right tools will do the job.
Steps to Clean Your Top Ear Piercing:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your piercing.
- Use a sterile saline solution (you can buy it or make your own with 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in 1 cup of warm distilled water).
- Soak a clean cotton pad or gauze with the solution and gently press it against the piercing for 2–3 minutes.
- Gently remove any crust or debris around the area using a fresh pad soaked in saline.
- Let it air dry—don’t use towels or tissues, as they can carry bacteria or leave fibers behind.
- Clean it twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed.
Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or ointments, as these can dry out the skin and slow down healing. Try not to twist or move the jewelry, and avoid sleeping on that side. With proper cleaning and a little patience, your top ear piercing will stay healthy and heal smoothly.
