Cartilage Piercing

There’s no doubt that piercings are one of the most time-honoured means of self-expression and body ornamentation. You’ve been wondering about the idea of cartilage piercing and what it entails. Here’s some basic information that will get you started.

What’s Meant by Cartilage Piercing?

Cartilage piercings have to do with any piercing that’s made into and through the thicker areas of cartilage found on the body. For most people, this means considering piercings that are done on the ears, specifically the area known as the cup. It can also refer to piercings that are done on or through the nose.

Whether you’re thinking about cartilage ear piercings or some type of nose piercing, it pays to understand that these can take longer to heal than simple piercings in the ear lobes. You’ll learn more about that a little later.

Who Gets Cartilage Piercings?

Everyone is a candidate for cartilage piercings. This is true for nose piercings as well as ear piercings. It’s not unusual for people of all genders to look into the idea of these piercings, including males.

Over the last couple of decades, guys with cartilage piercing have become more common. While the ears tend to be the most popular, some choose to go with simple piercings on one or both nostrils or at the base of the nose. An expert can provide some examples of cartilage piercing men tend to prefer, so it’s possible to get an idea of how things will look before any work is actually done.

What Are Some Jewellery Ideas?

There are definitely jewellery options when it comes to various types of cartilage piercings. One of the more popular is the hoop cartilage piercing. This one works especially well when the idea is to get piercings along the top rim of the ear. They can also work well on what’s known as the outer conch of the ear.

If hoop ear piercing cartilage is not your thing, consider the idea of a stud. This simple approach adds a little something extra to the nose as well as the ear. Make it as subtle or as elaborate as you like. You may consider options like birthstones, non-metal studs in different colours, and many other options. Technically, you can choose any type of hypoallergenic piercing jewellery in surgical steel, titanium, BioPlast or gold that suits your taste.

Don’t overlook the idea of a cartilage rod piercing. This type of ornamentation works well for a middle conch piercing as well as one along the base of the nose. As with the studs, you can go with a rod that is as simplistic in design as you want, or go with something that makes a bolder statement.

Single or Multiple Piercings?

The point of piercings is to add something that enhances your sense of self-expression. It’s also a time to have a bit of fun. You may find that a single piercing in the ear cartilage or on the nose is exactly what you want. There’s also other approaches you can consider.

For some, a double cartilage piercing provides the ideal look. This could involve pairing a piercing in the upper ear with one on the nose. Feel free to think about additional piercings, like a series of three in the upper ear along with one on each nostril. It’s up to you.

Preparing for Any Type of Cartilage Piercing

Given the fact that cartilage tends to be a little thicker, it’s important to prepare in advance. You may need to begin a few days before the actual piercing. Here are some essentials that will help.

One of the most important things you can do is ensure that nothing prevents the blood from coagulating properly. If you’re taking anything that thins the blood, it’s a good idea to discontinue use at least three days in advance. This is not limited to prescription medication. It can also involve herbs and a number of other products, including some spices.

In the days leading up to your helix cartilage piercing, refrain from drinking any type of alcoholic beverages. Along with potential blood-thinning properties, the alcohol won’t do anything to make you feel more comfortable. You can resume enjoying something a few days after the piercing is done.

It’s a good idea to invest in supplies that will aid the healing in the days and weeks after the

piercing cartilage is complete. A professional can provide a list of things that will come in handy.

What You Should Know About Aftercare

Unlike some piercings, it can take some time for mid cartilage piercing or any other form of cartilage piercing to completely heal. Any swelling or change in colourization will likely be gone in a few days. Even so, it could take up to six months for the healing to be complete.

You should be aware of the potential for keloid cartilage piercing to develop. This refers to the amount of scar tissue that’s found around the piercing. You may see evidence of the tissue based on skin that’s slightly different in colour. The difference ranges from a light pink to a deep brown. In many cases, there will be little scar tissue and the colour will return to your normal skin tone as the area heals.

We recommend an Antibacterial Skin Cleanser such as Trisan for these piercings. Thoroughly wash your hands before cleaning. Apply the cleanser to a cotton swab and gently clean both sides of the piercing. Rinse thoroughly. Apply gently on each side of the piercing a medical grade saline lotion like Dr. Piercing. For your convenience, you can consult one of our professional piercers in person or via email and you can purchase all recommended aftercare products at Black Line Studio or at Our Store.

Be sure to avoid:

• Soaking your piercing (baths, swimming etc)
• Chlorinated water
• Hydrogen Peroxide or Alcohol
• Oil-based ointments
• Frequent contact with unwashed hands
• Covering your piercing (bandaids, ointments)

Are you ready to consider some form of cartilage piercing? Call or visit our shop today and talk with an expert. Feel free to ask any questions that come to mind. Once you’re satisfied with the answers and want to move ahead, we’ll be happy to help.