What you need to know before getting a double helix piercing

Double helix piercing is becoming an increasingly popular type of piercing among all age groups. 

It's easy to see why. They are fashionable, with attractive designs and have a wide range of affordable jewelry options to choose from. They also look great with any piercing you already have. 

But before you rush out for your own, it's a good idea to do a little research first. You'll want to understand exactly what you're getting into and what to expect.

So let's take a look at what you need to know before deciding to get a double helix piercing.

Types of double helix piercing 

There are two types of helical piercings. One is a standard helix and the other is a straight helix. The only real difference is the location of the piercing itself in relation to the structure of the ear. The double helix refers to the number of punctures you have made. If you get a double, you will have a pair of piercings done vertically. Usually one piercing will be directly above the other. 

double helix

The standard double helix passes through the cartilage at the top of the ear and is positioned towards the back/rear of the ear. If you take your finger and run it from the earlobe to the tip, this is where the helix piercing usually takes place. 

Double helix forward 

The double anterior helix is ​​located opposite the double helix in the anteriorly facing cartilage. It is located in the cartilage just above the tragus. This is known as the front or front of your ear.

What to Expect After a Piercing

If you've had your ears pierced before, you already have a good idea of ​​what to expect. The double helix procedure isn't all that different from other piercings you may have had in the past. 

Piercing Studio 

Step one is to find a reputable piercing parlor you can trust. Our team at Pierced.co is made up of talented, experienced and caring piercers. Proper piercing can lead to a reduced risk of infection, less pain, and a properly positioned and positioned piercing that lasts longer. 

Experience with cartilage

Another important aspect is to make sure that the piercer has experience in cartilage piercing. Meet with them before you do so and ask as many questions as you can think of. Before proceeding with the procedure, you must get comfortable with it. It's also a good idea to make sure the wizard is using the right tools and working in a clean environment.

Needles, not a piercing gun

Double check and make sure they are using needles and not a piercing gun. Needles will become faster, cleaner and safer. Piercing guns cause cartilage injury and spread of infection. There are only some parts of a piercing gun that cannot be sterilized. At Pierced, we only use needles. Your piercer should also use multiple pairs of gloves throughout the piercing process to avoid cross contamination before touching the ear.

Preparation 

When you're ready, they'll prep the area on your ear by cleaning it first. Then they mark the place where the piercing will be done. Your piercer should give you a chance to see where he is piercing before he does. If they don't, make sure you ask them so you can be sure you like the placement.

piercing

The piercing itself will be done quickly, the preparation takes longer than the piercing itself. The piercer will give you care products and cleaning instructions. Make sure you have their contact information. This way you will be able to contact them if you have any difficulties or questions after you check out.

The pain will change

One question everyone asks before doing a double helix: will it hurt? A final yes or no would be nice, but it's really hard to tell. Everyone has a different pain tolerance. The general answer given by those who have had a double helix is ​​that the pain drops to an average level. It hurts more than just getting your earlobe pierced, but less than any other body piercing. Whichever way you look at it, the sharp pain from the actual piercing will only last a few seconds. Then the pain will turn into a dull pulsation and become manageable. 

Caring for your double helix piercing

Follow the care instructions to ensure your new piercing heals properly. You will be asked to start cleaning the piercing either the evening you get it or the next day. Make sure you have a solution, mostly saline. Peroxide, antibacterial soap, and other cleaners can be too harsh.

What to avoid:

• twisting/piercing play
• Touch the piercing at any cost without washing your hands
• Sleep on the side you pierced
• Removal of the piercing before the full healing process is complete
• Any of these actions can lead to irritation, pain, and infection.  

Healing time

As with pain, the amount of time it takes to heal depends on the individual. If you clean and care for your piercing as instructed, you may be able to heal in about 4 to 6 months. Keep in mind that healing can take up to six months even with constant care. If you happen to get an irritated piercing, the healing time will be affected. Some irritations can become so severe that you may need to remove the piercing for it to heal. If you notice:

• severe inflammation
• Yellow or green pus with an unpleasant odor
• Pain that gets worse
• Throbbing pain

Coming from a piercing, you want to get help right away. With prompt treatment, the piercing can sometimes be saved. Do not ignore any warning signs of infection.

Final thoughts 

The popularity of double helix piercings continues to grow, and rightly so. They are trendy and allow you to make a statement without going overboard. This piercing flatters you no matter your age or gender.  

When you're ready to take the next step and get your own double helix, stop by one of our trusted piercing parlors in any of Newmarket or Mississauga.