Skip to content
What is Bar Piercing?
Bar piercing, often referred to as an industrial piercing, is a type of ear piercing where a straight barbell connects two separate holes in the upper cartilage of the ear. Instead of a single stud or hoop, this piercing uses a long bar to link two points, creating a bold and edgy look. The most common placement is through the helix and forward helix areas, but variations exist depending on the ear’s shape and the individual’s style preferences. It’s a standout piece that immediately catches the eye, making it a favorite for those who want something more noticeable than a standard earlobe piercing.
What makes bar piercings unique is not just their appearance, but also the way they’re done. Unlike typical ear piercings that involve one puncture, bar piercings require two aligned holes to be created with precision. A professional piercer will usually mark both entry and exit points first to ensure the barbell sits straight and comfortably across the ear. The jewelry used is usually a straight barbell, which comes in different materials like titanium or surgical steel to suit sensitive skin and personal taste. Because it’s a structural piercing, it gives the ear a more architectural and creative look, often becoming a central feature in a person’s ear jewelry setup.
Industrial Piercing Bar Length
The standard length for an industrial piercing bar is typically 1.5 inches (about 38 millimeters). This size is designed to comfortably span the distance between the two holes in the upper cartilage of the ear. However, the exact length needed can vary depending on the individual’s ear shape, size, and placement of the piercing holes.
Some people may require a slightly shorter or longer bar, usually ranging between 1.25 inches (32mm) to 1.75 inches (44mm). A professional piercer will measure your ear and determine the right length during the initial piercing to ensure the bar fits well without causing pressure or irritation. It’s important that the bar is long enough to allow for initial swelling and proper airflow, especially during the healing period. Once healed, you can experiment with different styles, but the right fit is key for comfort and health.
How Much Is an Industrial Bar Piercing?
The cost of an industrial bar piercing can vary depending on where you get it done, but on average, you can expect to pay between $40 to $80. This price usually includes the piercing service and basic jewelry, like a standard surgical steel barbell. However, if you choose higher-end materials such as titanium or opt for decorative or custom-designed barbells, the price can go up by an additional $10 to $50.
It’s also worth noting that some reputable piercing studios may charge a bit more because they prioritize safety, hygiene, and professional technique. That slightly higher price often reflects the quality of the piercer’s experience, the cleanliness of the studio, and the type of equipment and jewelry they use. While it might be tempting to go for a cheaper option, it’s always better to invest in a trusted studio to reduce the risk of complications and ensure a properly placed, well-healed piercing.
How Painful Is an Industrial Bar Piercing?
An industrial bar piercing is generally considered to be moderately to highly painful, especially compared to simpler piercings like the earlobe. On a pain scale of 1 to 10, most people rate it around a 6 to 8, depending on their individual pain tolerance. This is because the piercing goes through cartilage in two separate spots, which is thicker and more resistant than soft tissue.
The pain often feels like a sharp pinch or pressure during the initial piercing, followed by a dull ache or throbbing afterward. Some people also experience a warm or burning sensation in the area for a few minutes. The discomfort can linger for a few days as the piercing starts to settle, but it usually becomes more manageable with proper aftercare and by avoiding unnecessary movement of the jewelry.
How Long Does a Bar Piercing Take to Heal?
A bar piercing, also known as an industrial piercing, typically takes about 6 to 12 months to fully heal. While the outer part of the piercing might appear healed after a couple of months, the internal tissue takes much longer to recover completely. Since this piercing goes through two cartilage points, it has a more complex healing process compared to standard lobe piercings.
During the healing period, it’s important to be patient and consistent with aftercare. Cartilage heals slower than soft tissue, and since the bar connects two piercings, any movement can affect both holes at the same time. Even after the initial swelling goes down, the area can still be sensitive to pressure or touch for several months. It’s a good idea to wait until it’s fully healed before changing the jewelry or stopping your cleaning routine, to avoid setbacks in healing or potential irritation.
When Can You Change Your Industrial Piercing Bar?
You should wait at least 6 to 12 months before changing your industrial piercing bar, and only do so once it's fully healed. Even if the outside looks fine after a few months, the inner tissue often takes much longer to heal completely. Changing the jewelry too early can irritate the piercing, delay healing, or even lead to infection or rejection.
It’s a good idea to have a professional piercer check your piercing before making your first change. They can let you know if it’s truly healed and can also help with the swap to make sure it’s done safely and cleanly. If you're ever unsure, it's always better to wait a little longer than to risk disrupting the healing process. Once healed, you’ll be able to explore different styles and materials more freely without the same concerns.
How to Take Out a Bar Piercing?
Taking out an industrial bar piercing should be done carefully, especially if it’s your first time or if the piercing is still relatively new. If you're unsure or feel any resistance, it’s always safest to visit a professional piercer. But if you're confident it's time and you want to do it yourself, here’s how to remove it safely:
Steps to Take Out a Bar Piercing:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria.
- Clean the piercing area with saline solution or a piercing-safe cleanser to ensure it’s free from dirt or debris.
- Hold one ball end of the barbell firmly with clean fingers or rubber-tipped tweezers.
- Gently unscrew the other ball end by turning it counterclockwise. Most barbell ends are threaded and should come off with a few turns.
- Carefully slide the bar out through the holes in your ear. Do this slowly to avoid any irritation or snagging.
- Clean the area again after removal to prevent any bacteria from entering the open holes.
Once the jewelry is out, the holes may begin to close fairly quickly, especially if the piercing isn’t fully healed or hasn't been in place for long. If you plan to reinsert jewelry soon, make sure to keep the area clean and avoid letting it close. If the piercing becomes red, swollen, or painful after removal, consider consulting a piercer or healthcare professional.
How to Clean Industrial Bar Piercing?
Keeping your industrial bar piercing clean is essential for proper healing and to prevent infection. Since this piercing goes through two cartilage points, it’s more prone to irritation if not cared for consistently. Cleaning it regularly with the right method helps keep the area free of bacteria and allows your body to heal smoothly.
Steps to Clean an Industrial Bar Piercing:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your piercing to avoid introducing germs.
- Use a sterile saline solution (you can buy this at a pharmacy or make your own by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in 1 cup of warm distilled water).
- Soak a clean gauze pad or cotton ball in the saline solution.
- Gently press it against the piercing for a few minutes to soften any crust and cleanse the area.
- Wipe around both holes and the bar, being careful not to twist or move the jewelry too much.
- Dry the area gently with a clean paper towel. Avoid using cloth towels, which can carry bacteria.
Do this cleaning routine twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed until the piercing is fully healed. Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh soaps, as they can irritate the skin and slow down healing. Also, try not to touch or rotate the bar unnecessarily, as this can introduce bacteria or cause microtears in the tissue. Consistent, gentle care is key to keeping your industrial piercing healthy.
Industrial Bar Piercing Jewelry
Industrial bar piercing jewelry comes in a variety of styles, materials, and designs to suit both comfort and personal taste. While the classic straight barbell is the most common choice, there are many other options that allow you to customize your look once the piercing is fully healed. Here are some popular types of jewelry used for industrial piercings:
1. Straight Barbell
The straight barbell is the classic and most commonly used jewelry for industrial piercings. It consists of a long, straight metal bar with threaded balls on both ends to hold it in place. This style is often used during the initial piercing because it provides stability and allows room for swelling. It’s simple, secure, and perfect for keeping the piercing aligned as it heals. Once healed, you can also find straight barbells in different colors and finishes to match your style.
2. Twisted Barbell (Spiral Bar)
The twisted or spiral barbell adds a creative flair to the traditional industrial look. Instead of a straight design, this bar curves into a spiral shape, giving the piercing a unique, dynamic appearance across the top of the ear. It’s typically worn after the piercing has fully healed, as the twist can make cleaning and movement trickier during the early stages. It’s a fun way to change up your look without switching to a completely different type of jewelry.
3. Decorative Barbell
Decorative barbells come in endless designs, from simple embedded gems to themed charms like stars, moons, or skulls. These are meant to add personality and style to your industrial piercing once it has healed. Many decorative options still follow the straight bar format but feature adornments along the bar or on the ball ends. They’re perfect for making your piercing stand out or coordinating with your outfit or mood.
4. Arrow Barbell
The arrow barbell features a pointed arrowhead on one end and a fletching-style back on the other, mimicking the look of an arrow going through your ear. It’s a bold, edgy choice that adds visual interest and a slightly rugged feel to the piercing. Most arrow barbells are straight like the standard type but are more expressive and artistic, making them a favorite for those who want their industrial piercing to make a statement.
5. Flexible Barbell
Flexible barbells are made from materials like PTFE or bioplast, which are bendable and hypoallergenic. These are ideal for people with sensitive skin or for those who want more comfort while sleeping or wearing headphones. They’re also great during healing, as the flexibility reduces pressure and irritation from movement. Despite their soft texture, they still hold the piercing well and come in various colors and designs.
6. Segmented Barbell
A segmented barbell has a sleek, modern design where a portion of the bar detaches rather than the ends unscrewing like a typical barbell. This creates a seamless appearance with no visible threading, giving it a minimalist, clean look. These are usually worn once the piercing is fully healed, as the snug fit and hidden segment may be harder to manage during the healing process. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a refined and polished style.
Get 20% Off All Erica Jewels Earrings
At Erica Jewels, we offer a stunning and diverse collection of earrings crafted from high-quality, hypoallergenic materials. Our earrings are designed not only to be stylish but also safe for sensitive skin, ensuring a comfortable wear without causing any allergies.
Explore Our Earring Collection:
Whether you prefer classic studs or statement-making cuffs, our carefully curated range has something to suit every style and occasion.
Special Offer for Our Blog Readers:
Enjoy an exclusive 20% discount on your entire purchase! Simply use the code SHINE20 at checkout.
✨ Shop now and shine with Erica Jewels! ✨
