Model wearing a full ear stack featuring cartilage piercing jewellery

A Guide to Cartilage Piercings and Helix Earrings

Q: Q. What age can you get a cartilage piercing?

A. Most studios offer cartilage piercings from age 16 with parental consent. Requirements can vary, so always check the studio’s policy.

By Kayleigh Marsden

When it comes to curating the ultimate ear stack, nothing makes a statement quite like a perfectly placed cartilage piercing. From dainty helix earrings that glimmer under soft light to bold clicker hoops that catch the eye, cartilage piercings have become the ultimate way to express individuality - luxe, effortless, and endlessly customizable.

Below, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about cartilage piercings and helix earrings, from materials and styling to aftercare and the art of the ear stack.

What is a Cartilage Piercing?

Your ear isn’t just a lobe - it’s a canvas. Cartilage piercings are done in the firmer areas of your ear (unlike the soft lower lobe), offering endless possibilities for placement and style.

Here are the most popular types of cartilage piercings:

Helix piercing: The outer upper rim of the ear - the perfect spot for helix earrings, minimalist hoops, or sparkling studs.
Forward helix piercing: Just above the tragus, framing the face with delicate shine. Pop in a helix earring for a unique look.
Tragus piercing: The small flap that partially covers your ear canal - subtle yet striking.
Conch piercing: The inner cup of the ear, perfect for statement helix earrings or labret studs.
Daith and rook piercings: For the bold at heart, these inner cartilage piercings create a sculptural, fashion-forward look.

Helix earrings and cartilage earring position map

Choosing the Right Material for Your Cartilage Piercings

When it comes to earrings for cartilage ear piercings, the material matters as much as the design. High-quality piercing jewellery ensures comfort, longevity, and a luxurious finish that stays beautiful over time.

The Best Material for Cartilage Piercing Earrings:

Surgical steel: Hypoallergenic and highly durable - a classic choice for both new and healed cartilage piercings.
Sterling silver: Chic and versatile, ideal once your cartilage piercing has fully healed.
Gold and gold-plated: Nothing says luxury like gold. Opt for 14k or 18k gold to avoid irritation and add a touch of timeless glamour to your helix earrings.
Titanium: Lightweight and ultra-safe for sensitive skin - perfect for fresh cartilage piercings.

Types of Cartilage Piercing Jewellery:

The beauty of cartilage piercings lies in their versatility. Explore different types of helix earrings and styles to build your dream ear stack:

Helix earrings: Sleek hoops or minimal studs that wrap the ear’s curve in effortless elegance.
Labret studs: Flat-backed and comfortable, perfect for conch or tragus cartilage piercings.
Clicker hoops: The stylish choice for cartilage piercings - easy to secure and endlessly chic.
Barbells: Ideal for industrial or double helix piercings, adding a cool, contemporary edge.

All of Orelia’s cartilage and helix earrings are made from high-quality surgical steel or 925 sterling silver, making them safe for sensitive cartilage while maintaining a luxe, polished finish.

How to Properly Care for Your Cartilage Piercings and Helix Earrings

Cartilage piercings are beautiful - but they need a little TLC.

Here’s how to keep your helix earrings and cartilage piercings looking and feeling their best:

Clean daily: Use a sterile saline solution to gently cleanse around the cartilage piercing.
Avoid twisting: Let the helix earrings sit still during healing to prevent irritation.
Keep it dry: Pat dry after showering and avoid swimming pools until healed.
Choose quality: Stick to hypoallergenic metals for both helix earrings and other cartilage piercings.

Ear Stacks: How to Layer and Style Your Helix Earrings and Cartilage Piercings

Welcome to the era of the curated ear. Layering helix earrings and other cartilage piercings lets you play with texture, shine, and shape - from minimal to maximal.

Style tips for a balanced stack:

Mix helix earrings and studs for contrast.
Vary metal tones (think gold, rose gold, and silver) for dimension.
Use clicker hoops as anchor pieces and layer smaller helix earrings around them.
Add a touch of sparkle with gemstone or diamond helix earrings for an elevated finish.

Whether you’re creating a dainty, celestial look or an edgy ear constellation, your cartilage piercings are your palette.

Gif showing different ear stacks with helix and cartilage earrings

FAQs about Cartilage Piercings

Q. How long does a cartilage piercing take to heal?

A. It typically takes about 3–6 months for a cartilage piercing to heal, depending on placement and aftercare.

Q. Does a helix piercing hurt?

A. A helix piercing can feel like a quick pinch - it will hurt slightly more than a lobe, but manageable (and worth it).

Q. What age can you get a cartilage piercing?

A. Most studios offer cartilage piercings from age 16 with parental consent. Requirements can vary, so always check the studio’s policy.

Q. How do I clean my helix earrings and cartilage piercings?

A. To clean your helix and cartilage piercings, use sterile saline solution twice daily and avoid harsh soaps or alcohol.

Shop the Perfect Cartilage Piercings and Helix Earrings

Ready to start your ear story? Explore our curated collection of helix earrings, clicker hoops, and cartilage piercing jewellery - designed for modern luxury and effortless everyday wear.

From minimalist staples to statement sparkle, find the perfect helix earrings and cartilage piercings to complete your look and elevate your ear stack.