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What is a Surface Tragus Piercing?
A surface tragus piercing is a type of body piercing that goes through the surface of the skin near the tragus area of your ear, but not through the actual cartilage. Unlike the traditional tragus piercing which goes through the small thick piece of cartilage in front of your ear canal, the surface tragus piercing is placed just above it on the flat skin between your cheek and ear. It is called a surface piercing because it goes under a small area of skin instead of passing through from one side to the other like regular ear piercings.
This piercing uses special jewelry known as a surface bar which is shaped to fit comfortably under the skin without causing too much pressure. Since it lies just below the skin and not through cartilage, it can be more delicate and may have a higher chance of being rejected by the body if not cared for properly. Many people choose the surface tragus piercing for its eye catching and modern look. It is a stylish choice for those who want something different from the usual ear piercings and want to highlight the side of the face in a unique way.
How Long Does a Surface Tragus Piercing Take to Heal?
A surface tragus piercing typically takes anywhere from 3 to 9 months to fully heal, but healing time can vary depending on your body, aftercare routine, and the skill of your piercer. Since this is a surface piercing and not one that goes through cartilage or flesh entirely, it is more sensitive and can take longer to settle. In the early weeks, it might look healed on the outside, but deeper layers of skin are still going through the healing process underneath.
It’s important to keep the area clean and avoid touching or moving the jewelry during this time. Using a gentle saline solution and avoiding pressure from headphones, sleeping on that side, or hair getting caught in the jewelry can help speed up healing. Even though some people may see faster progress, patience is key, as rushing the healing process or changing the jewelry too soon can lead to irritation, migration, or rejection. Always follow your piercer’s aftercare instructions closely for the best results.
How Much Is a Surface Tragus Piercing?
The cost of a surface tragus piercing usually ranges from $40 to $100, depending on the piercing studio, the experience of the piercer, and the type of jewelry you choose. Some high-end studios may charge more, especially if they use premium materials like implant-grade titanium or gold. The price often includes the piercing procedure itself, basic jewelry, and sometimes an aftercare solution, but it's always good to ask what’s included before booking your appointment.
While it might be tempting to go for a cheaper option, it's important to remember that quality matters a lot with this type of piercing. Surface piercings are more prone to complications like rejection or infection if not done properly, so paying a little more for a skilled professional and safe materials is worth it. Choosing a reputable studio that follows proper hygiene and safety practices can help ensure a smoother healing process and a better long-term result.
Do Surface Tragus Piercings Hurt?
Yes, surface tragus piercings can hurt, but the pain is usually short and manageable. Most people describe the pain as a sharp pinch followed by some pressure, lasting only a few seconds during the actual piercing. On a pain scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being the most painful, many rate the surface tragus piercing around a 4 to 6. The skin in this area is not as thick as cartilage, but it still has nerve endings, so some discomfort is expected.
After the piercing, it's normal to feel a bit of soreness, swelling, or tenderness for a few days. This can feel more uncomfortable if the area gets bumped or irritated. Everyone’s pain tolerance is different, but having a calm mindset and going to an experienced piercer can make a big difference. Proper aftercare also helps reduce irritation and makes the healing process more comfortable overall.
How Is a Surface Tragus Piercing Done?
Getting a surface tragus piercing is a quick but careful process that should always be done by a professional piercer in a clean, sterile environment. Before starting, the piercer will examine the area to make sure your skin is suitable for this type of piercing. Then, they will clean the skin thoroughly and mark the exact entry and exit points where the jewelry will sit just under the surface.
Here’s what usually happens during the procedure:
- The piercer sterilizes the area around the tragus.
- They mark the two points where the barbell will go under the skin.
- A special needle or piercing tool is used to create a channel just beneath the surface.
- A surface bar (a type of jewelry designed to sit flat under the skin) is inserted.
- The area is cleaned again and you’ll be given aftercare instructions.
Once the jewelry is in place, the piercer will check that it's sitting correctly and comfortably. The entire process takes only a few minutes, but precision is key to avoid complications. After it’s done, proper care is essential to help the piercing heal well and reduce the risk of rejection or irritation.
What Gauge Is a Surface Tragus Piercing?
The most common gauge size for a surface tragus piercing is 16 gauge, which measures about 1.2 millimeters in thickness. This size is widely used because it's thick enough to support the jewelry securely while still being comfortable and less likely to cause damage to the surrounding skin. Some piercers may also use a 14 gauge (about 1.6 millimeters) depending on your skin type and the kind of jewelry being used, but 16 gauge is the standard starting point for most people.
Using the correct gauge is important because it affects how the piercing heals and how stable the jewelry sits under the skin. Jewelry that’s too thin can move too much and lead to rejection, while jewelry that’s too thick may cause unnecessary pressure and irritation. A professional piercer will choose the best gauge for your anatomy and make sure the surface bar fits snugly and safely beneath the skin for a smooth healing process.
Surface Tragus Piercing Jewelry
Here are the following main types of jewelry suitable for a surface tragus piercing.
1. Surface Barbell (Staple Barbell):
A surface barbell, also known as a staple barbell, is specifically designed for surface piercings like the surface tragus. It features a flat, U-shaped bar with perpendicular bends at each end, allowing it to lie flush against the skin surface. This design reduces pressure on the piercing, minimizes the risk of migration or rejection, and enhances the healing process. Surface barbells are typically crafted from implant-grade materials such as surgical stainless steel or titanium, known for their hypoallergenic properties, durability, and safety. Ends can be customized with decorative balls or gems, combining aesthetics with functionality.
2. Curved Barbell:
Curved barbells, sometimes called banana barbells, feature a gentle arc and are commonly used in surface piercings due to their versatility. While not specifically designed for surface piercings, curved barbells can still be effective in surface tragus piercings when properly fitted. They typically have removable balls or decorative ends, making it easy to change the jewelry after healing. However, their curvature can slightly increase the risk of piercing migration and rejection compared to surface-specific jewelry, so choosing the right length and curvature is crucial. High-quality materials like titanium or sterling silver are recommended to promote optimal healing.
3. Flat-back Labret Stud:
Flat-back labret studs can occasionally be used in surface tragus piercings, especially if the piercing is shallow or specifically placed to accommodate this jewelry type. They feature a flat disc on one end and a decorative ball or gem on the other. Labret studs sit comfortably against the skin, reducing the chance of irritation caused by external friction, making them suitable for daily wear. However, their design isn't inherently intended for deep surface piercings, and their use in a surface tragus piercing should be carefully evaluated by a professional piercer to avoid potential complications like migration or rejection. Labret studs are commonly crafted from titanium or surgical steel to prevent irritation and support the healing process.
4. Dermal Anchor (Microdermal):
Dermal anchors, also known as microdermals, are single-point piercings embedded into the skin surface, making them a unique alternative to traditional surface piercing jewelry. A dermal anchor consists of a small anchor embedded under the skin with a decorative top that sits flush against the surface. This type of jewelry is suitable for areas around the tragus because it has minimal impact and a low profile. Dermal anchors are typically made from titanium, ensuring compatibility with the body and reducing the risk of rejection. However, dermal piercings require specialized placement and careful aftercare to ensure long-term viability, making professional piercing and proper maintenance crucial.
How to Change a Surface Tragus Piercing?
Changing a surface tragus piercing should only be done after it has fully healed. Trying to change it too soon can lead to irritation, infection, or even cause the piercing to reject. It’s always a good idea to have the jewelry changed by a professional piercer, especially the first time, since surface piercings can be tricky to handle without the right tools and experience.
If you choose to change it yourself after full healing, here are some steps to follow carefully:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Clean the piercing area and new jewelry with a saline solution.
- Gently unscrew the top balls or ends of the current surface bar.
- Slowly and carefully slide out the old jewelry without forcing it.
- Insert the new, sterilized surface bar along the same angle as the original.
- Secure the ends and check that the jewelry is sitting flat and comfortably.
Always use high-quality jewelry made of titanium or surgical steel to avoid irritation. If you experience pain, redness, or swelling while changing it, stop and consult a piercer. Being patient and gentle helps protect your piercing and ensures it stays healthy and looking great.
How to Clean a Surface Tragus Piercing?
Cleaning a surface tragus piercing properly is very important for healing and preventing infection. You should begin cleaning it from the very first day and continue throughout the healing period. The best way to care for it is to use a gentle saline solution, which can either be bought from a pharmacy or made at home by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt with 1 cup of warm distilled water.
Follow these simple steps to clean your surface tragus piercing:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the area.
- Soak a clean cotton pad or gauze in the saline solution.
- Gently press it against the piercing for a few minutes to loosen any debris.
- Wipe away any crust that forms around the jewelry using a clean pad.
- Pat the area dry with a fresh paper towel—never use cloth towels, as they can carry bacteria.
Avoid twisting or moving the jewelry, using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, and keep hair, makeup, and dirty hands away from the area. Clean it twice a day until it's fully healed, and always follow your piercer’s aftercare advice. Consistency and gentle care will help your piercing heal faster and stay healthy.
Buy Earrings Online for All Types of Piercings
If you're looking to buy earrings online for your piercing, shop with confidence at Erica Jewels. We specialize in high-quality, hypoallergenic earrings that are safe, stylish, and suitable for all types of ear piercings, from earlobe and cartilage. Our collection features a wide variety of designs, including minimalist studs, elegant hoops, and bold statement pieces, all crafted to ensure comfort and long-lasting wear. Whether you're new to piercings or looking to upgrade your current jewelry, you'll find pieces that not only suit your style but also care for your skin. At Erica Jewels, we combine fashion with function to give you earrings that feel as good as they look.
Our collection includes:
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