Everything You Need to Know About Ear Piercings
Learn more about the different types of ear piercings and caring for your ears after they have been pierced.
Discover the World of Ear Piercings
Ear piercing is a simple, generally safe body modification that has been around for centuries and has become a part of cultures worldwide. For many people, getting their ears pierced for the first time is a rite of passage, whether they have it done as children or as adults.
However, if it is yours or your child's first time or you want to add a new piercing, you might be anxious about what to expect. That's why we created our guide to ear piercings.
At Body Pierce Jewelry, we want to ensure you have everything you need to feel confident before your piercing. This includes the different types of piercings, the process of getting an ear piercing, and the aftercare required.
Keep reading to learn more about this simple procedure, or check out our selection of high-quality earrings today.
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A Brief History of Ear Piercing
Archaeologists believe that earrings were first worn by men and women in ancient Egypt, around 3000 BCE. The Egyptians believed wearing earrings would bring good luck and protect them from evil spirits.
Earrings were also popular in ancient Greece and Rome, worn by men and women. While priests discouraged earrings during the Middle Ages, they made a resurgence during the Renaissance and have been popular ever since.
Types of Ear Piercings
There are several different types of ear piercings, depending on what part of your ear you're getting done. Keep reading to learn more about the different types.
Lobe Piercing
The lobe piercing is the most common type of ear piercing, where the earlobe is punctured with a sterile needle. This piercing is generally the least painful and has a relatively short healing time.
Upper Lobe Piercing
The upper lobe piercing is a variation of the standard lobe piercing, where the hole is placed higher on the earlobe. This piercing can add a bit of edge to one's look.
Cartilage Piercings
Cartilage piercings involve puncturing the cartilage on the upper part of the ear. This type of piercing is more painful and has a longer healing time than lobe piercings. There are several cartilage piercings, including the helix, forward helix, rook, and daith.
Tragus Piercing
The tragus piercing is a cartilage piercing located on the small flap of cartilage just in front of the ear canal. This type of piercing is trendy and can be an excellent addition to any ear-piercing collection.
Conch Piercing
The conch piercing is a cartilage piercing located in the middle of the ear. It is generally one of the more painful ear piercings but is a bold and unique addition to any ear.
Industrial Piercing
An industrial piercing involves two piercings connected by a single piece of jewelry. The piercings are usually located in the helix and forward helix, and the jewelry is placed to create a barbell effect. This type of piercing requires proper care to avoid irritation or infection.
Orbital Piercing
The orbital piercing is a double piercing connected by a single piece of hoop jewelry. It can be located on any part of the ear or body.
The Process of Getting a Piercing
Step 1: Find a Piercer
Before getting your ears pierced, it is essential to research the piercer before scheduling an appointment to ensure that they are licensed and experienced. Many people choose to go to a tattoo and piercing shop.
Step 2: The Piercing Process
The piercer will first clean the ear and mark the piercing location with a pen. Then, they will use a sterilized needle to create a hole in the ear before inserting jewelry into the piercing.
Step 3: Aftercare for Ear Piercings
Aftercare instructions may vary slightly depending on the type of piercing but generally include cleaning the piercing regularly with saline or a saltwater solution. You should also avoid touching the piercing and changing the jewelry too early.
Step 4: The Healing Process
The healing time for ear piercings varies, depending on the location of the piercing. Generally, lobe piercings heal within 6-8 weeks, while cartilage piercings can take up to 12 months. You might notice some pain, redness, or swelling around the piercing. If those symptoms get worse, be sure to contact your doctor.
Want New Jewelry for Your Piercing?
At Body Pierce Jewelry, we carry a wide selection of earrings for any ear piercing, including your lobe, middle ear, upper ear, and more. Our earrings are made from high-quality materials and come with a 90-day warranty. Order yours today.
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