Forward helix piercings are a distinctive style of ear piercing that can be customized and done in multiples. This particular piercing is more intricate and has a long-lasting appeal than a standard forward helix piercing, which loops around the cartilage on the upper ear.
You can get many piercings simultaneously for a distinctive, eye-catching look with double or even triple forward helix piercings. Even though they are unusual, the piercings require very little care once the first healing phase is over.
Here’s a brief guide to the forward helix piercing, healing times, and what to expect.
How Long Does a Forward Helix Piercing Take to Heal
When you get a forward helix piercing, it goes through cartilage, which means you will likely experience more pain than a regular lobe piercing. The pain level you experience can vary depending on several factors, such as the experience level of your piercer, whether they use a needle or a machine, and your personal pain tolerance.
Your forward helix piercing should heal completely in three to nine months, but it’s always advisable to avoid caution when following up with aftercare. If you don’t follow the recommended aftercare instructions, it may take longer for your piercing to heal and become infected.
Side Effects of Piercing
First and foremost, if you experience any troubling symptoms, consult a physician, such as a dermatologist, right away for examination and treatment.
1. Infection
If you experience severe discomfort, redness, heat, or swelling after piercing, get medical treatment, as these are usually indicators of an infection (1).
2. Yellow-green Discharge
An off-white liquid will likely leak after a piercing for the first few days. However, if you see any discharge after this time range, it may raise worry. You should pay attention to the color of the discharge, as yellow-green indicates an infection. The contaminated discharge will not dry into a crust, as the typical discharge does.
3. Keloid
A keloid (2) is a raised, often round scar that may form during healing. Caring for keloids once they are created can be difficult. While they are typically not harmful, they can be unattractive and bothersome.
Aftercare of Forward Helix Piercing
To ensure proper aftercare for your new forward helix piercing, it is essential to wash your hands thoroughly beforehand to avoid transferring bacteria to the open wound.
After washing your hands, gently clean the piercing site with a gentle, unscented soap or a sterile saline solution twice to thrice daily. Finally, use a paper towel to dry the piercing gently instead of fabric.
When to Change Forward Helix Piercing?
If you have a forward helix piercing and wish to change the jewelry, waiting until the piercing is fully healed is essential. Attempting to change the jewelry before the site has healed can lead to irritation and potential infection, as the piercing is still an open wound.
Wait until your helix piercing heals fully before changing the jewelry. The studs can be stiff and difficult to remove, irritating the piercing site. Remember, the longer you leave a piercing alone to heal, the more confident you can be that swapping out the jewelry is safe.
If you’re unsure about the healing status of your piercing or worried about causing harm, it’s best to visit your piercer for a change-out.
What Is the Best Jewelry Option for a Forward Helix Piercing?
- Ring
- Stud
What Material Is Used for a Forward Helix Piercing?
1. Titanium
Titanium (3) is likely the most secure choice for anyone’s jewelry because it does not contain nickel. Even if you are not sensitive to nickel, it can cause significant skin irritation. As a result, this is an excellent alternative for individuals with sensitive skin.
2. Gold
If you prefer gold to silver, it is an excellent choice for body jewelry. Ensure that the gold jewelry is at least 14 carats. Gold above 18k is soft and may exhibit bacterial growth (4).
Conclusion
Although forward helix piercings are fashionable; you should know they are exposed wounds. Appropriate care is required to guarantee a quicker and more seamless healing process, just like with any other piercing.
Always prioritize safety, hygiene, and aftercare to promote a beautiful, healthy, forward helix piercing.
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