All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through links in this article.
Think of your ear as an empty canvas.
Getty Images
With the help of the right piercer, it’s a work of art waiting to be created.
Want to go preppy?
Stick with a big diamond stud.
Getty Images
More into the punk-rock look?
A heavy-metal industrial piercing might be more your deal.
Prefer to stick with something that feels entirely your own?
But unlike makeup and fashion, the possibilities aren’t exactly endless.
Jump ahead by clicking on a link above or keep scrolling to read about all your facial-piercing options.
“But definitely feel free to ask your piercers for their license.
Some of them are hanging on a wall; others are in a binder.
They’re waiting for you to ask.”
Two more pro tips: Avoid sleeping on your newly pierced ears and wash your sheets and pillowcases regularly.
With those basics out of the way, let’s talk inspiration and ear curation.
you’re free to experiment with the placement of this classic to create an unconventional look.
So why stop at just one?
(It’s important to note, however, that pain levels are highly subjective.)
The forward-helix is literally a forward-facing piercing, says Kelly.
If you’re looking at someone straight-on, you’ll see it.
Like most cartilage piercings, it’ll take between three and six months to heal, he says.
“Ear cartilage piercings, in general, are more painful than a lobe piercing,” says Kelly.
“But when it comes to cartilage piercings, helixes are pretty mild.”
Conch Piercing
The piercing in the inner ear is the conch, Lopez’s all-time favorite ear piercing.
“They’re just really beautiful.
Also pictured: Three helix piercings.
“In all of the years that Ive been piercing, they are very consistent.”
Daith Piercing
A daith piercing passes through the ear’s inner cartilage fold.
But Lopez also adds that not every single person’s ear can handle this pop in of piercing.
That’s why it’s important to go into your piercing studio with an open mind.
“This one hurts a little more, because it’s a slightly bigger gauge,” Kelly says.
Maybe that’s one reason industrial piercings have earned their punk-rock reputation.
