Are you wondering what size hoop to get for a helix piercing? You’re not alone! Many people are curious about the ideal helix piercing sizes for their upper ear cartilage. Luckily, measuring your helix piercing at home is simple with just a few basic tools.
To measure your helix earrings, you’ll need a piece of paper and a ruler. If you have a caliper, that’s even better. It’s also crucial to know the gauge size you’re currently wearing, as it can’t be easily measured without the right tools. Remember, a helix piercing refers to the upper ear cartilage piercing, a popular choice for those looking to add a stylish edge to their ear.
What Helix Piercing Sizes Should You Start With?
Most helix piercings are typically done at a 16G size, though some might be pierced at a 14G. If your piercing was done with a piercing gun instead of by a professional piercer, the gauge might be smaller—often 20G or 18G. This is common for piercings done in places like the mall.
For easier aftercare and quicker healing, studs are often the initial jewelry used in helix piercings. Keep in mind that the first jewelry piece is usually longer (or has a larger inner diameter for hoops) to accommodate any swelling that might occur during the healing process.
What Helix Piercing Sizes Are Considered Standard?
When it comes to helix piercing sizes, there is no universal standard that fits everyone. The truth is, cartilage piercings, including helix piercings, can vary greatly from person to person, depending on factors such as ear shape, cartilage thickness, and personal style preferences. Because of this variability, it’s crucial to avoid assuming that a “standard” size will work for your helix piercing.
The best practice for determining your helix piercing size is to measure your piercing yourself or, if you already have a hoop that fits comfortably, to measure its inner diameter. This way, you can be confident that you’re selecting the correct size when purchasing jewelry online. Many people make the mistake of choosing a size based on what they believe is “normal” or “standard,” only to find that the jewelry is either too tight or too loose, causing discomfort or prolonged healing times.
When buying helix jewelry, it’s always better to take a few extra moments to measure your existing hoop or barbell to ensure that you’re buying a size that will not only fit comfortably but will also look great. A well-fitting piece of jewelry enhances the aesthetic of your piercing and ensures a smoother healing process.
How Do I Measure My Helix Piercing?
If you’re uncertain about the helix piercing sizes you need, don’t worry! Measuring your helix piercing at home is straightforward and requires only a few simple tools. To get started, you’ll need a small piece of paper, a fine-tipped marker, and a ruler. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you measure your helix piercing accurately:
- Prepare the Paper: Take a small piece of paper and ensure it’s clean and straight. Align the edge of the paper with the outer part of your ear where your helix piercing is located.
- Mark the Piercing: Using the fine-tipped marker, make a small line on the paper where your piercing is situated. Be precise with this step, as accuracy here will directly impact the accuracy of your measurement.
- Measure the Mark: After marking, place the paper against a ruler and measure the distance between the edge of the paper and the mark you made. This measurement, in millimeters, represents the inner diameter that would fit your ear comfortably.
- Consider the Angle: When taking your measurement, be mindful of the angle at which you hold the paper strip. A straight, horizontal line will give you the smallest inner diameter, which is typically the most accurate for a snug fit. However, if you prefer a looser fit, you can adjust the angle slightly to increase the measurement.
By following these steps, you can confidently determine the right helix piercing size for your ear, ensuring that your jewelry fits comfortably and looks great. This simple process helps avoid the common mistake of purchasing ill-fitting jewelry, which can lead to discomfort, irritation, or extended healing times.eter you can wear comfortably and will fit your piercing. Alternately, if you take your measurements along a diagonal line, the result will be a hoop that fits loosely.
What Gauge Is My Helix Piercing?
Understanding the gauge of your helix piercing is crucial for choosing the right jewelry. The gauge refers to the thickness of the metal used in your piercing jewelry. If you’re unsure about the gauge used to pierce your ear, it’s always best to consult your piercer. They can provide the most accurate information and guide you toward the appropriate jewelry size.
While it’s relatively simple to measure the inner diameter of your existing jewelry at home using a ruler, determining the gauge is a bit more complex. Unfortunately, a ruler won’t suffice for measuring gauge size. To accurately measure the gauge of your helix piercing jewelry, you’ll need a caliper or micrometer.
Measuring Gauge at Home
If you have access to a caliper, you can measure the thickness of your existing jewelry accurately. The caliper’s bottom jaws, designed for measuring external dimensions, are ideal for this task. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare Your Caliper: Ensure that your caliper is clean and set to zero before starting.
- Place the Jewelry: Carefully place the jewelry between the bottom jaws of the caliper.
- Read the Measurement: Gently close the jaws around the jewelry to get an accurate reading. The measurement will be displayed in millimeters.
The most common helix piercing gauges are:
- 20 Gauge (0.81mm): Often used for initial piercings done with a gun, though not recommended for cartilage due to the higher risk of complications.
- 18 Gauge (1.0mm): A thinner option commonly used for nostrils but occasionally found in helix piercings.
- 16 Gauge (1.2mm): The standard size for most helix piercings, offering a balance between durability and comfort.
- 14 Gauge (1.6mm): Thicker than usual for a helix piercing but used for those who prefer more substantial jewelry or plan to stretch their piercing.
It’s important to remember that forcing a thicker gauge into a piercing not designed for it can cause significant damage. Always ensure you’re using the correct gauge for your helix piercing.
What Is a Helix Piercing?
A helix piercing is located along the curving outer rim of the ear cartilage. It can be placed anywhere from the top curve of the ear down to where the earlobe begins. Helix piercings are popular due to their versatility and the aesthetic appeal they add to the ear.
There are several types of helix piercings:
- Standard Helix Piercing: Positioned anywhere along the upper ear’s outer cartilage.
- Forward Helix Piercing: Located between the top curve and the tragus, close to the face. Forward helix piercings are often done in multiples, such as double or triple forward helix piercings.
- Double/Triple Helix Piercing: These involve multiple helix piercings placed closely together, allowing for creative and intricate jewelry arrangements.
My Helix Piercing is Tight – What Should I Do?
A tight helix piercing can cause discomfort and even hinder the healing process. While snug jewelry might seem appealing for a neat appearance, it’s essential that your jewelry does not apply excessive pressure on the piercing. Both hoops and studs should sit comfortably without straining the piercing.
If your helix jewelry feels too tight, particularly if you have a hoop with an inner diameter of around 6mm, it’s time to take action. A 6mm hoop is often considered quite tight for a helix piercing and can cause issues if the fit is too snug.
Here’s what you should do:
- Remove the Jewelry: If your piercing is new, consult your piercer before removing the jewelry. For healed piercings, gently remove the tight jewelry.
- Replace with a Larger Size: Opt for jewelry with a slightly larger inner diameter or longer post. This will alleviate pressure and reduce the risk of complications.
- Consult Your Piercer: If you’re unsure about the best size to switch to, visit your piercer. They can measure your piercing and recommend the appropriate size.
In summary, knowing your helix piercing gauge and ensuring your jewelry fits comfortably are key factors in maintaining a healthy and stylish piercing. Always prioritize comfort and safety when selecting or replacing your helix jewelry.
What is the Best Metal for Helix Piercings?
When it comes to choosing the best metal for your helix piercing, titanium and niobium are top contenders. These metals are particularly well-suited for sensitive ears and piercings due to their exceptional qualities.
Titanium is widely recognized for its biocompatibility, meaning it is highly unlikely to cause any adverse reactions when used as body jewelry. It’s also corrosion-resistant, ensuring that it won’t tarnish or degrade over time, even when exposed to moisture. Most importantly, titanium is nickel-free, which makes it an excellent choice for those prone to metal allergies.
Similarly, niobium is another excellent option for helix piercings. Like titanium, niobium is biocompatible and hypoallergenic, making it safe for most wearers. It is also resistant to corrosion and completely free of nickel, further reducing the risk of allergic reactions. These properties make niobium a great alternative for individuals with sensitive skin or those looking for a reliable and long-lasting metal for their piercings.
In summary, if you’re looking for the best metal for your helix piercing, both titanium and niobium offer superior safety, comfort, and durability, making them ideal choices for anyone with sensitive ears or concerns about allergies.
More useful related helix piercing sizes articles:
How to Clean Septum Piercing Throughout the Healing Process
How Much Does a Septum Piercing Cost? Everything You Need to Know
How Long Does It Take for a Septum Piercing to Heal?
Do Septum Piercings Hurt? Everything You Should Know about Them
When Can I Change My Nose Piercing
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