Everything you need to know about forward helix piercings

Forward helix piercings are increasingly becoming more popular so that piercing fans can maximise the jewellery they can wear.

This guide contains information about forward helix piercings including the jewellery you can wear and pain levels as well as aftercare tips and healing times.

What is a forward helix piercing?

A forward helix piercing is placed on the upper outer cartilage of your ear located above the tragus.

Some opt for a single forward helix piercing but double or even triple piercings are also popular for stacking to the max.

How painful is a forward helix piercing?

On the pain scale, the forward helix ranks at about a 4 out of 10 varying from person to person.

What jewellery can you wear in a forward helix piercing?

For optimum comfort due to the particularly small surface area of this placement, we would recommend wearing tiny studs or clicker hoops in a forward helix piercing. 

You will be pierced with a longer stud initially to allow space for swelling before sizing down for a snugger fit when healed.

Jewellery for healed forward helix piercings

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What is the aftercare for a forward helix piercing?

To ensure your forward helix piercing heals well, we would recommend the following tips:

  • Gently clean your new piercing twice daily with a sterile saline solution - we love Neilmed piercing mist. Moisture can lead to bacteria so make sure you dry the area afterwards - the cool setting on a hairdryer works well.
  • Take extra care when removing clothes and styling hair to avoid snagging the jewellery.
  • Sleep on the opposite side of your piercing or use a donut travel pillow.
  • Avoid swimming in lakes, pools or hot tubs for 2-3 weeks while the piercing is still fresh.
  • Visit your piercer for a routine check up consultation around 6 weeks after. They'll check if you need to downsize the post of your stud - downsizing can help the healing process once the initial swelling has subsided.
  • And lastly, leave it alone as much as possible and let the natural healing process occur.

How long does a forward helix piercing take to heal?

A forward helix piercing can take anywhere between 4-12 months to fully heal but this varies from person to person.

Laura says:

"Forward helix piercings look great with either a tiny gold hoop or tiny studs.

The cartilage area is typically small so it’s all about keeping the jewellery as tiny and dainty as possible."

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