4 Eye-Catching Jewelry Styles for Your Helix Piercing
The helix piercing is probably one of the most popular ear piercings out there. It’s a versatile piercing, making it the perfect candidate to show off your unique flare. But just because it’s a common piercing doesn’t mean the jewelry has to be common, too.
In fact, there are hundreds of styles to choose from when it comes time to swap out your starter jewelry. These range from labret studs, captive rings, hoops, barbells, and more, each with their own distinct colors, designs, and gemstones. It’s no wonder folks are so excited about getting their helix pierced—endless body jewelry options await you!
More than versatility, the helix in particular can help you enhance your own sense of style because it’s more visible than other piercings may be. They’re great for “earscaping,” or the process of making all of your earrings match in some cohesive way, creating a statement piece of self expression.
But what is a helix piercing, and how can you choose a style that suits you? In this blog, we’ll define the helix, talk about the healing process and aftercare, discuss jewelry materials, and go over trendy helix jewelry options.
Understanding Helix Piercings
There are several helix piercing types. It is generally located on the outer cartilage of either ear. The placement is totally up to the desires and needs of the piercee. Some prefer the helix at the top of their ear, while some prefer it lower and closer to the earlobe. Regardless, they’re all technically helix piercings.
Even though the helix is a common piercing, that doesn’t mean the healing is a breeze. Cartilage piercings actually take awhile to completely heal—anywhere from 4 months to a full year. If you’re unsure if your helix is fully healed, consult your local piercing professional.
Types of Eye-Catching Jewelry for Helix Piercings
Stud Earrings
The three most popular categories of stud earrings for helix piercings include: diamond (or clear CZ) studs, colored gemstone studs, and geometric studs. Stud earrings typically have the gem or design on the front with a flat back that lays flush to the ear.
While diamond studs are classic and look beautiful in the helix, the colored gemstone studs or geometric studs are a great way to add flare to your jewelry repertoire.
Hoop Earrings
Hoops earrings for helix piercings are great because they lay over the cartilage in an appealing way. For hoops, popular styles include seamless rings and decorative hoops.
Seamless rings are popular because they simply twist open and close. Without a hinge, its clean look is the main reason individuals choose this type of hoop.
On the other hand, decorative hoops include embellishments like beads, gemstone inlays, or designs like a bumble bee or crescent moon. These are great for more eccentric personalities.
Dangle Earrings
This style has become increasingly popular over the last couple of years. Dangle earrings are pretty self-explanatory—the stud or hoop includes a dangly chain or decoration that is free flowing. This adds a fun texture and interesting movement into your style.
The two most popular types, chandelier-style and chain-style, are unique in their own ways. Chandelier-style dangle earrings may include more bling, just as a real chandelier would. However, a chain-style earring will incorporate tiny linked chains for an edgy look.
Ear Climbers and Cuffs
For the helix, ear climbers and cuffs are one of the best ways to call attention to your piercing. Typically, ear climbers are large and elaborate, giving the illusion that it’s “climbing” up your ear.
Similarly, helix cuffs provide the same look and feel without the commitment of actually getting your helix pierced. It simple wraps around your cartilage and you pinch it closed to secure it.
Materials for Unique Helix Earrings
Surgical Steel
Otherwise known as stainless steel, surgical steel is hypoallergenic which makes it a good choice for your healed helix piercing.
Additionally, surgical steel is incredibly durable and affordable, which is why there is such a wide range of options available.However, surgical steel may contain trace amounts of nickel or copper which can be inflammatory to those with very sensitive skin.
Titanium
The most optimal metal for body jewelry is titanium because of its biocompatible properties, which means it’s not harmful to living tissue. What’s more, titanium is extremely lightweight which is important for body jewelry, especially around the ears like the helix. This fact makes it wearable and comfortable for a majority of skin types.
Even better, titanium can be anodized, which means its color can be changed just by stimulating it with an electrical current. That alone provides you with a wealth of unique titanium earring options for the helix.
Gold
Gold is a classic and elegant option, but it’s also hypoallergenic, too. The higher the karat, the purer the gold and the safer it is for sensitive skin. Typically, you’ll encounter options like 18kt and 14kt, which are both solid options.
Another reason gold is a standout option is because it comes in varying colors, such as yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold. These provide a trendy look and feel, no matter your distinct fashion sense.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Unique Helix Piercing Jewelry
Of course, your personal style has everything to do with what jewelry option you choose. You can go bold with a bright color. Or, maybe you choose a titanium hoop with black PVD coating because you’re dark and mysterious. You can even choose a helix earring that has spikes to show that you’re edgy.
It all comes down to y-o-u—so don’t be afraid to show off!
Similarly, just like every style is different, every ear is different, too. Talk with your local professional piercer to figure out the right gauge size for your ear. And, if you’re choosing a hoop, you can ask your piercer what size they recommend for the size and shape of your ear.
In terms of aftercare, we recommend cleaning your helix piercing with a sterile saline wound spray, like NeilMed Piercing Aftercare, twice daily. Avoid cleaning the piercing with a cotton swab because the fibers can get stuck in the piercing and cause irritation. When in doubt, ask your local piercer what they recommend.
Eye-catching helix piercing jewelry is a must. Its location warrants something daring…something unique just like your style. At Urban Body Jewelry, we have hundreds of trendy options for unique helix earrings that can help you experiment with your personal style and try something new.