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What is Orbital Conch Piercing?
An orbital conch piercing is a unique type of ear piercing that involves two separate holes connected by a single piece of jewelry, usually a small hoop or ring. It’s done in the conch area of your ear, which is the inner part of the ear cartilage near the ear canal. Instead of just having one piercing like a standard conch, this style creates a “loop” effect by joining two holes with one continuous ring. This gives it a stylish, circular look that stands out from more common piercings.
What makes the orbital conch piercing special is its location and design. Since it’s placed in the cartilage, it requires more care and healing time than lobe piercings. The piercing artist will usually mark two spots in the conch area, pierce them with a needle, and then insert a ring to connect them. It’s important not to confuse this with a double conch piercing, which also has two holes but doesn’t connect them with a single ring. Orbital conch piercings are great for people looking for something bold, different, and eye-catching.
Orbital Piercing vs Conch
Orbital piercing and conch piercing may sound similar, but they are actually quite different in both style and placement. A conch piercing is a single hole placed in the cartilage of the inner ear, either in the inner or outer conch area. It is usually fitted with a stud or a hoop, depending on your preference. On the other hand, an orbital piercing involves two holes connected by a single ring, creating a loop that goes through both entry points. While an orbital piercing can technically be done in various parts of the ear, an orbital conch piercing specifically refers to an orbital placed in the conch area.
The main difference is that a conch piercing is a single piercing with one jewelry piece going through one hole, while an orbital piercing connects two piercings with one continuous ring. Because of this, orbital piercings often have a more eye-catching, circular design, while conch piercings are a bit simpler and more classic in appearance. Orbital piercings may also take slightly longer to heal since two piercings need to recover together. Both styles look great, so the choice really comes down to personal taste and how bold you want your ear jewelry to look.
Orbital Conch Piercing Pain
Getting an orbital conch piercing does involve some pain, mainly because it goes through the thick cartilage of your ear. Cartilage is tougher than soft tissue like your earlobe, so the piercing process can feel more intense. Most people describe the pain as a sharp pinch followed by a throbbing or pressure-like sensation. Since this piercing requires two holes instead of one, you will feel that pinch twice, which can make it a bit more uncomfortable than a single cartilage piercing.
On a pain scale of 1 to 10, many people rate an orbital conch piercing around a 6 or 7. Of course, everyone has a different pain tolerance, so your experience might feel more or less intense. The discomfort usually does not last long, but the area may feel sore or tender for a few days afterward. It is also normal to experience swelling, redness, or mild aching as the ear begins to heal. Keeping the area clean and avoiding pressure on the ear, such as sleeping on that side, can help reduce irritation and support faster healing.
Orbital Conch Piercing Healing Time
The healing time for an orbital conch piercing can take quite a while because it involves cartilage, which heals slower than soft tissue. On average, it takes about 6 to 12 months for this type of piercing to fully heal. Some people may feel like it is healed after a few weeks, but it is important to remember that the inner tissue is still recovering even if the outside looks fine. Since this piercing uses two holes connected by one ring, both spots need to heal evenly, which can slightly extend the overall healing process.
During the healing period, it is very important to follow proper aftercare to avoid infections or complications. This includes cleaning the area with a saline solution, not touching the jewelry with unwashed hands, and avoiding sleeping on the pierced ear. You should also avoid changing the jewelry too soon, as doing so can delay healing or cause irritation. Every ear is different, so some people may heal a little faster or slower, but staying consistent with care makes a big difference in how smoothly the healing goes.
Orbital Conch Piercing Cost
The cost of an orbital conch piercing can vary depending on a few factors, like the location of the studio, the experience of the piercer, and the type of jewelry you choose. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $40 to $100 for the piercing itself. Since this style involves two holes and a single piece of jewelry connecting them, it might cost a bit more than a standard single cartilage piercing.
Jewelry plays a big role in the total price. Basic surgical steel rings are usually included in the lower end of the price range, while titanium or gold options can increase the cost. Some high-end studios also include aftercare products in their pricing. While it may be tempting to go for a cheaper option, it is always best to choose a clean, professional studio with a good reputation to ensure safety and proper healing.
Orbital Conch Piercing Jewelry
Choosing the right jewelry for an orbital conch piercing is important for both style and healing. Since this piercing connects two holes with one ring, the jewelry must be smooth, comfortable, and made of high-quality material to prevent irritation. The most common choice is a hoop-style piece that fits well through the conch area and allows for movement during healing. Here are some popular types of jewelry used for orbital conch piercings:
1. Captive Bead Ring (CBR)
A captive bead ring is one of the most traditional choices for orbital conch piercings. It’s a circular ring that is held closed with a small removable bead, which “snaps” into place between the ends of the ring. The bead keeps the ring secure while still allowing it to rotate gently, which helps with cleaning during the healing process. CBRs come in different sizes and metals, making them versatile and easy to style.
2. Seamless Ring
Seamless rings are smooth, round hoops with no visible closure or bead, giving them a sleek, minimal look. They’re ideal for people who want a more subtle and polished appearance. Because they have no rough edges or parts that stick out, seamless rings are gentle on healing piercings. However, they can be a bit tricky to insert or remove, so they’re often better suited for healed piercings.
3. Segment Ring
A segment ring looks like a seamless hoop but includes a small removable section (the “segment”) that pops in and out to allow for insertion. Once in place, the segment blends in with the rest of the ring, giving it the clean appearance of a seamless ring while being easier to handle. This makes it a practical option if you want both style and convenience without sacrificing comfort.
4. Clicker Ring
Clicker rings have a built-in hinge that allows one part of the ring to open and “click” shut, making them super easy to put in and take out. They’re a favorite among both piercers and clients because of their ease of use and wide variety of decorative styles. From plain metal to intricate designs with gems or patterns, clicker rings offer both function and fashion, especially once the piercing is healed.
5. Hoops
Hoops made from high-quality materials like titanium or surgical stainless steel is highly recommended for orbital conch piercings. Titanium is lightweight, strong, and hypoallergenic, making it perfect for healing tissue. Gold (specifically 14k or 18k) is also a safe choice as long as it’s nickel-free. These metals reduce the risk of allergic reactions, infections, or delayed healing and are ideal for both initial and long-term wear.
6. Huggie Hoops
Huggie hoops are small, snug-fitting earrings that closely wrap around the ear. While they are commonly used in lobes and outer cartilage, they can also work in orbital conch piercings if they are the right diameter and made of safe material. However, huggies are generally better for healed piercings, as their tight fit and limited movement can cause discomfort or slow down healing in a fresh piercing.
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