Ear Piercings: The Complete Guide

Thinking about an ear piercing? Have a placement in mind but don't know what it's called? Looking for information about pain, prices and healing times?

At Solstice, we specialise in ear piercing jewellery for healed piercings. We're here to help answer your questions!

Ear piercing jewellery is back in the spotlight thanks to the ear stacking trend, which involves combining several pieces of jewellery. The helix, on the outer cartilage, is a popular choice for its appearance, and some people find it relatively manageable in terms of pain. Tragus and conch piercings are also much sought after. As an indication in French studios, ear piercing often costs between 20 and 70 euros, depending on the placement and the piercer's experience. 

In this article, you'll learn:

• Where each type of ear piercing sits and what it's called
• What the piercing procedure involves: prices, pain, healing and more
• How to look after your ear
• Tips for choosing your jewellery

You'll have a clearer understanding of ear piercings.

Let's go!

What is each ear piercing called?

Ear piercings are placed in either the lobe or the cartilage.

1. Helix and forward helix

A helix piercing sits in the upper cartilage, specifically along the rim of the upper part of the outer ear. Also known as a cartilage piercing, the helix can be an option for a first cartilage piercing, as some people find the pain manageable and the price relatively affordable. It still needs careful attention, as this part of the cartilage is particularly prone to snagging on clothing, hair and bedding, as well as knocks.

The helix piercing has several variations along the outer edge of the cartilage. It's common to see several hoops along the outer cartilage. Stacking delicate, simple pieces is a popular look! 

A forward helix piercing sits opposite the helix, on the outer cartilage. It's above the tragus and close to the face. Less common than a helix piercing, a forward helix can be a little more painful. It's also possible to wear several pieces here.

2. Tragus and anti-tragus

A tragus piercing sits just in front of the ear canal. This small flap of cartilage can be rounded or triangular. Understated, distinctive and delicate, it can add a bold touch to your style. Along with the helix and lobe, it's often one of the first piercings people choose. Despite appearances, some people find the pain manageable, although healing time varies.

A tragus piercing pairs well with a conch and/or helix piercing. It's even possible, though very rare, to have 2 piercings here! For a healed tragus piercing, we suggest a stud, although a small hoop can also create a stylish look.

An anti-tragus piercing sits opposite the tragus. This curved fold is in the cartilage just above the lobe. 

3. Conch

A conch piercing sits in the hollow of the outer ear, opposite the external ear canal. You can choose between an outer and an inner conch: the first is closer to the helix, while the second is closer to the ear canal.

Single, double and triple hoops, particularly thicker styles, are popular choices for a healed conch piercing. 

4. Daith

A daith piercing sits above the ear canal, through a small fold of cartilage. Between the forward helix and the tragus, the daith is an understated, stylish placement. It's often worn with a fairly thick hoop, with or without crystals.

The daith is sometimes promoted as a piercing for migraines, but its effectiveness as a treatment has not been demonstrated (see the American Migraine Foundation's advice).

5. Rook

A rook piercing passes through the small cartilage fold just above the daith. More precisely, it sits at the top of the inner horizontal ridge of cartilage. Distinctive but less common, the rook stands out in an ear stack. 

However, a rook piercing can be quite painful because it passes through a thick fold of cartilage. Once healed, you can wear a small hoop or a curved barbell.

6. Lobe

A lobe piercing sits in the soft area at the bottom of the ear. It's one of the most common ear piercings and is often less painful and quicker to settle than cartilage piercings, although experiences vary.

The earlobe can be pierced several times, often 3 times, but sometimes 5! This gives you lower lobe piercings and upper lobe piercings, closer to the cartilage. Once healed, you can wear hoop earrings, small studs and even larger earrings. Try building an ear stack!

7. Flat

Less widely known, a flat piercing sits in the flat part of the upper ear, just below the helix. Some people find the pain manageable, but healing varies from person to person.

For a healed flat piercing, we suggest star-shaped or moon-shaped studs, or a stud with a small crystal.

8. Snug

A snug piercing sits in the cartilage ridge facing the ear canal. It's therefore in the same cartilage ridge as the rook, but closer to the conch. 

Often quite painful and slow to heal, a snug piercing is commonly worn with a curved barbell with a ball at each end.

Which ear piercing is right for you?

Before booking an appointment with your piercer, choose the ear piercing that appeals to you most. If you already have a clear idea in mind, tell them the name of the piercing so they can assess the placement with you.

To recap, here are the different ear piercings by placement:

• Piercings in the middle of the ear: daith, rook and snug;
• Piercings in the upper cartilage: helix, flat and rook;
• Piercings along the outer ear: forward helix and helix;
• Piercings in the lower ear: lobe and anti-tragus;
• Piercings in the inner part of the outer ear: conch and daith;

If this is your first cartilage piercing, a helix or tragus may be worth discussing with your piercer: they're popular, can be relatively affordable and some people find the pain manageable. If you already have experience, you might consider placements that can be more challenging, such as the daith, rook or snug.

Also think about the types and sizes of jewellery you like wearing: hoops or studs? Delicate or thicker pieces? Each placement has its own jewellery requirements. Your lifestyle matters too: do you do physical work outdoors? Does your employer allow visible piercings?

Meaning, history and origins

Long associated with spiritual beliefs, piercings are worn for their appearance, as a form of self-expression and to show a connection with a group. But these aren't their only meanings.

The meaning of piercings throughout history

The modern word piercing is recent, but the practice itself is much older. Across periods and cultures, piercings have been worn as adornment and have also been linked to beliefs and social meanings.

Their meaning has changed over time, from adornment and status to identity, group belonging and personal style.

In contemporary fashion, ear piercings have become a lasting styling choice, with designers and piercers helping to popularise curated ear looks. 

Why do people get their ears pierced? 

Ear piercings are popular because they offer so many possibilities for ear stacks. So why do people get their ears pierced?

The meaning of an ear piercing varies. In many countries, piercings are worn for aesthetic reasons: stacking jewellery is a popular look, whether you prefer something bold or understated.

It can also be a symbol of shared causes, self-expression and self-acceptance. People may also choose a piercing to mark a personal moment or simply to feel more like themselves.

Ear piercings for men

Meanings attached to earrings can also vary for men: for some, the choice is simply aesthetic, while others see it as a personal symbol.

In Western societies, ear piercings have sometimes been regarded as feminine symbols, unfairly so. Attitudes are changing, and more male celebrities are wearing this type of jewellery.

Getting your ears pierced: prices, pain and choosing a piercer

Many of you want to know what getting your ears pierced involves. Does it hurt? How much does an ear piercing cost? How do you choose a piercer? How should you prepare? Here are answers to your questions!

How much does an ear piercing cost?

As an indication in French studios, lobe piercing can start at around 20 euros for 2 lobes. It's still worth looking beyond the price alone and choosing a clean studio, suitable equipment and a piercer you trust.

The cost of a piercing varies according to the equipment used, the piercer's experience, the placement and the studio's popularity. 

Here's an indicative overview from French studio prices for different ear piercings:

• Lobe:  30 euros for 1, 50 euros for 2, with lower prices per piercing for additional holes;
• Helix: 30 to 50 euros, with lower prices per piercing for 2 or 3 holes;
• Tragus, conch, rook, forward helix, flat, anti-tragus and snug: 40 to 60 euros;
• Daith: 50 to 100 euros;

Decorative initial piercing jewellery may cost an additional 10 euros. Some studios offer reduced prices or promotions for ear piercings, particularly for students or when booking several piercings.

Piercers' quoted prices may include the piercing procedure, initial jewellery, aftercare advice and follow-up. Confirm what is included with your chosen studio.

Where should you get your ears pierced?

Be cautious about ear piercing services that use a piercing gun, especially for cartilage. For cartilage piercings in particular, a professional piercer using sterile single-use needles and suitable initial jewellery is usually the better option.

For an ear piercing, particularly a cartilage piercing, visit a professional piercer. A trained piercer can assess your anatomy and choose an appropriate placement. They should use sterile single-use needles and suitable sterile initial jewellery, such as appropriate titanium jewellery. Professional piercers should follow the hygiene requirements and training rules applicable where they practise.

The procedure

We suggest visiting your piercer first to check that their prices suit your budget, that you feel comfortable with them and that the studio is clean. 

So what does getting your ear pierced involve? The procedure itself is usually fairly quick:

• You sit down, or sometimes lie down
• The piercer disinfects the skin around the chosen placement
• They mark the piercing placement with a pen
• They pierce the ear with a needle and insert the jewellery
• The piercing diameter is usually 1.2 mm
• The piercer cleans the new piercing and moves on to any others
• They give you aftercare instructions and let you leave once everything has gone well

It's possible to have several ear piercings done at the same appointment. If you're considering more than one, ask your piercer what is reasonable for you and think practically about sleeping, pressure and everyday snagging.

Not every piercing is suitable for every ear. For a daith, tragus or rook piercing, the cartilage may be too thin or too small. This is an anatomical limitation that cannot simply be changed.

Ear piercing pain

Pain intensity depends on the person, the placement and the circumstances. A single rating for everyone cannot predict your experience; see the IASP definition of pain.

The initial sensation can be sharp, intense and throbbing. It may feel like a sting and often fades quickly. This can be followed by a duller, more general ache lasting a few hours. The piercing may remain tender, red and swollen for a while afterwards, although this varies.

Daith, snug and rook piercings can be among the more painful ear piercings because they pass through fairly thick folds of cartilage. The needle passes through both sides of the fold, which can be painful. The piercing procedure is brief, but discomfort afterwards varies.

A lobe piercing is often one of the less painful ear piercings because it passes through soft tissue without cartilage. Similarly, some people find helix piercings relatively manageable. Some people also find tragus piercing pain manageable, although experiences differ.

Our tips for preparing 

Although some ear piercings can hurt, particularly cartilage piercings, preparing mentally and physically may help you manage the experience. Good preparation can help reduce stress as you approach the procedure and healing period.

Here are a few tips before visiting your piercer:

• Eat enough and stay hydrated
• Get a good night's sleep and avoid alcohol the day before
• Tie your hair back
• Help yourself relax: try breathing from your diaphragm, listening to music or bringing someone with you
• Do not take painkillers such as aspirin or paracetamol specifically to prepare for the piercing without advice from a healthcare professional. Do not stop prescribed medication without medical advice.

How old do you need to be to get your ears pierced?

If you're considering ear piercing for a child, make sure the child wants it and understands what it involves.

Choose an experienced piercer, think about day-to-day practicalities, and make sure the request comes from the child rather than from the parents. Consent matters at every age.

In all cases, children should see an experienced piercer rather than a jeweller whose initial piercing jewellery may not suit their everyday activities.

Age rules and consent requirements depend on local law and studio policy, so check them before booking. As with tattoos, a piercing should be considered carefully beforehand.

Piercing aftercare and healing advice

Before changing your initial jewellery yourself, wait until your ear piercing has fully healed. Follow an aftercare routine and appropriate hygiene measures. Solstice catalogue jewellery is intended for healed piercings, not initial piercing or healing.

Healing time for each ear piercing

The healing time for an ear piercing varies from one placement and person to another. Cartilage piercings often take longer to settle than lobes. 

Healing can take weeks or months depending on the placement and the person. A piercing is only ready for a jewellery change when a qualified piercer confirms it in person.

Ear piercing healing is gradual, and a piercing can look calm before it is fully healed. Appearance alone does not confirm complete healing.

How do you clean a piercing and support healing?

Piercing aftercare aims to keep the area clean while supporting normal healing. 

Follow the routine given by your piercer. A simple approach is usually best:

• Wash your hands with soap and dry them;
• Use a sterile saline solution intended for wound care;
• Gently clean the area without moving or rotating the jewellery;
• Rinse with lukewarm water if needed;
• Leave the jewellery in place unless a qualified piercer or a doctor tells you otherwise;

For aftercare, use a saline solution that is sterile, contains 0.9 % salt and is intended for wound care. It cleans without disinfecting; homemade salt mixtures are discouraged in the APP's aftercare recommendations.

Alongside your aftercare routine, keep these precautions in mind to help reduce the risk of infection:

• Avoid touching or playing with your piercing outside cleaning;
• Keep make-up, hair products and shampoo away from the piercing;
• Be careful with activities that create friction, pressure or knocks;
• Do not go swimming
• Look after your general wellbeing, including a balanced diet, hydration, sleep and stress management, and consider the effects of smoking and alcohol

When can you change your initial jewellery?

You should wait until your ear piercing has fully healed before changing the jewellery yourself. If you're unsure, ask your piercer for advice. Signs such as no bleeding, redness or swelling, and crusts falling away, may suggest progress in healing. A clean-looking piercing without an unpleasant smell is not, by itself, proof of complete healing.

Initial jewellery should therefore remain in place until healing is complete, unless a qualified piercer advises and performs a necessary adjustment. Readiness for a jewellery change should be assessed in person, not judged by time alone.

Changing your jewellery too early or neglecting aftercare can lead to complications such as irritation bumps, scarring or infection. Not every piercing bump is a keloid. 

Recognising and treating an ear piercing infection

An ear piercing infection can cause redness, swelling, pain, pus or fever. It must not be assumed to be harmless.

Irritation or snagging can sometimes cause similar symptoms, but do not try to diagnose the problem by counting symptoms. A recent piercing can also be red, swollen or tender, and that does not rule out infection.

If you suspect an infection, seek medical advice promptly. Your piercer can check the jewellery, but local aftercare alone is not a substitute for treatment.

Which jewellery should you choose for an ear piercing?

At Solstice, we believe ear piercing jewellery gives people a way to express their creativity and sense of style. Choosing your jewellery matters. Size, materials, shape and colour all play a part! Explore our tips for choosing jewellery for healed piercings.

Our selection · Ear Piercing Jewellery

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• SofieThin hoop
• AnahStud
• SceptreCurved barbell
• Stella chainChain
• Boucle EnvoléeEarring
• AvrilStone-set hoop

Explore the Ear Piercing Jewellery collection

Choosing hypoallergenic materials

Choosing the material for your ear piercing jewellery should be a priority. A suitable material can reduce risks, without guaranteeing freedom from allergies or irritation.

Check the exact material listed for any piece you buy. Titanium, 316L stainless steel and gold are different materials and should not be treated as equivalents.

• Titanium: often chosen when hypoallergenic jewellery is a priority;
• 316L stainless steel: a different material from titanium, with suitability depending on the individual;
• Gold: check the alloy details before buying;

For an initial piercing, let your professional piercer choose the jewellery. Solstice catalogue jewellery is for healed piercings.

Which jewellery sizes and types should you choose?

Piercing jewellery should suit your anatomy and personal preferences. You can choose shapes that complement your facial features and colours you enjoy against your skin tone.

Here are the different jewellery styles available:

• Hoops: large or small, thin or thick, hoops come in many styles and can suit several ear placements, depending on their size and your anatomy;
• Studs: these small, slender posts create an understated look. They often have a flat back and a screw-on decorative end in shapes such as a moon, star, crystal or ball. A screw-on end is threaded, not threadless; the threading type must be checked on the product listing;
• Curved barbells: these curved posts can have a screw-on ball at each end;
• Chains: a popular way to add movement to your ear stack. They generally connect jewellery at the lobe and outer cartilage, such as the helix;
• Earrings: graphic, geometric and distinctive designs, often with more volume;

Each ear piercing placement has its own characteristics and suitable jewellery styles. The following sizes are broad examples for healed piercings, not universal fitting recommendations; ask your piercer to check the fit:

• Helix: hoops measuring 8 to 10 mm, or studs;
• Tragus: studs are more common, but a 6 mm hoop may also suit;
• Conch: thicker hoops measuring 10 to 12 mm;
• Daith: hoops measuring 8 to 10 mm;
• Rook: thin 6mm hoops or a curved barbell measuring 8 to 10 mm;
• Lobe: a wide variety of styles, provided they fit comfortably;
• Snug: a curved barbell measuring 8 to 10 mm;
• Flat: small studs;
• Forward helix: a small stud or a 6 mm hoop;
• Anti-tragus: the same suggestions;

For colour, you might enjoy gold-tone jewellery against dark skin, or silver-tone and grey finishes against light or pale skin. Gold-tone and silver-tone finishes can both work beautifully against tanned or olive skin. These are styling ideas, not rules: choose the colours you love.

Ear piercing examples, ideas and styles

Ear piercings are also widely seen in fashion and celebrity styling, from understated studs to statement hoops.

Our ear stacks · gold-tone

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• Composition CléaGold-tone
• Composition CélénieGold-tone
• Composition AcanthaGold-tone
• Composition PalomaGold-tone
• Composition ZoéGold-tone
• Composition AgatheGold-tone

Explore the ear stack collection

Building an ear stack takes a little thought. If you're looking for ear piercing ideas or want to explore the possibilities, take a look at these combinations: