Ear Cartilage Care Information

Healing rates:

~6-8 months:

Single Conch, Rook, Outer Conch, Tragus, Forward Helix

~8-12 months:

Double Conch, Rook, Outer Conch, Tragus, Forward Helix

~12 months:

Single Helix, Industrial Helix

~12-18 months:

Double+ Helix, Single Snug

DO:

  • Flushing rinse to area; showers are best for this

  • Wait to change the starter jewelry until the piercings are fully healed. (How to tell?)

  • *Hot water compress daily for the first 4-6 weeks, then as needed for discomfort and following any damage

 

DON’T:

  • Turn the jewelry (not necessary for the surgical steel jewelry used for healing)

  • *Touch, turn or flip the ear when monitoring the piercing

  • Remove the healing jewelry before they’re fully healed, no matter what!

Do not use any of the following:

Rubbing alcohol:  Too drying, can harm new forming skin cells

Hydrogen peroxide:  Can cause infection by adding oxygen into the deeper tissues

Saline:  While saline doesn’t really cause harm, it is mostly just a waste of time. The spray delivery only contacts the surface which can be done with warm water in the shower to the same effect. Alternatively, saline needs to be heated and used to soak the piercing site for ~20-minutes. Shower is easier!

Soaps:  Drying and can get stuck inside the piercing where it can grow bacteria

Antibiotic gel or lotion:  Only safe for topical use so there is a risk of it going into the piercing where it can grow bacteria

*Failure to perform hot water compressing coupled with touching or other damage to the piercing(s) while healing is the primary cause of “piercing bubbles” on ear cartilage piercings. If you’re seeing these, begin hot water compress right away. If not improving after the first week, schedule a care appointment.

common healing issues

Here are some links to more detailed information on some of the most common issues healing body piercings.

Fluid Discharge & “Crusties” - Know what you’re seeing

Piercing Bubbles

Migration or Rejection

Swelling & Fluid Congestion

getting help

Use these tips before attempting first changeout.

Begin hot water compressing as detailed in this link.

Have someone else take a clear picture of the piercing - this is a much better way to monitor it than mirrors or trying to selfie. And you can text it to us for evaluation.

Schedule a care appointment if there is no improvement after the 3rd day of hot water compressing. Do not remove or manipulate the piercing jewelry.

Text us: 724-745-9415