What Is Tragus Piercing And How It Works?

The tragus is a small, pointed piece of cartilage located at the entrance of the ear canal. When there’s a small hole is made in the tragus, it’s called tragus piercing.

This area is popular for piercing due to its unique position and the variety of jewelry that can be worn in it, such as studs, hoops, or barbells.

The process of getting a tragus piercing typically involves a professional piercer who uses a needle to create the hole. It’s important to go to a reputable piercing studio where proper hygiene practices are followed to prevent infection.

Read on to learn more about tragus piercing including how it’s done, how to take care of it, how much expensive it is, and so on.

Types of Tragus Piercing

There are varieties of tragus piercing. Let’s explore them before getting the piercing.

1. Single Tragus Piercing

Single Tragus Piercing is the most common type, involving one piercing through the tragus cartilage. This style suits a wide range of jewelry, from subtle studs to decorative rings. It’s a great starting point for those new to tragus piercings.

The simplicity of a single piercing often appeals to individuals looking for a classic, understated look.

It’s important to choose high-quality jewelry to reduce the risk of irritation or infection. The healing process typically takes a few months, and careful aftercare is crucial for a smooth healing journey.

Different Tragus Piercing Pictures
Tragus Piercing Cute | Tragus Piercing Diamond | Tragus Piercing Etsy

2. Double Tragus Piercing

The Double Tragus Piercing involves two piercings on the tragus, usually aligned vertically. This type allows for creative jewelry pairings and can make a bolder statement than a single piercing.

It requires a larger tragus area to accommodate both piercings comfortably. The healing process can be slightly longer than a single piercing due to the increased area affected. It’s essential to maintain a strict aftercare regimen to prevent complications.

This style is ideal for those who want to elevate their ear-piercing game with a distinctive and trendy look.

3. Vertical Tragus Piercing

Vertical Tragus Piercing, also known as the “Surface Tragus Piercing,” differs from the traditional method as it goes along the surface of the tragus rather than through it.

This type of piercing is more complex and should be done by an experienced piercer. It uses surface barbells and can be more prone to rejection or migration than other tragus piercings. The unique orientation of the piercing offers a distinct and modern aesthetic.

Different Tragus Piercing Images
Tragus Piercing Bar | Tragus Piercing Barbell | Anti Tragus Piercing Pictures

4. Anti-Tragus Piercing

Located opposite the tragus on the inner ear cartilage, the Anti-Tragus Piercing is less common but offers a unique look. It can be more painful due to the thicker cartilage and may have a longer healing time.

Suitable jewelry options include small hoops and studs, which complement the piercing’s location. This type is perfect for those who have already experimented with other ear piercings and are looking for something different.

As with other cartilage piercings, following aftercare instructions is key to avoiding infections and ensuring proper healing.

Stainless Steel Tragus Jewelry
Anti Tragus Piercing Jewelry

Tragus Piercing Procedure

The procedure for getting a tragus piercing is relatively straightforward but should always be performed by a professional piercer in a clean and reputable studio. Here’s an overview of the typical process:

  • Consultation: The piercer will discuss your desired placement and jewelry choice. This is the time to ask questions and address any concerns.
  • Preparation: The piercer cleans the tragus area with a medical-grade antiseptic to minimize the risk of infection. They might also mark the spot with a surgical pen for precise placement.
  • Piercing: The actual piercing is usually done with a hollow needle. The piercer will pass the needle through the tragus, often followed by the insertion of the chosen jewelry. This part is quick but may cause sharp pain or discomfort.
  • Jewelry Insertion: Once the hole is made, the piercer will insert the jewelry. This should be smooth and relatively quick. The type of jewelry used varies, but starter jewelry is typically a stud or a small hoop made from hypoallergenic materials.
Tragus Piercing Gun
Tragus Piercing Gun

How Does Tragus Piercing Heal?

Healing a tragus piercing is a gradual process that can be divided into distinct stages.

Understanding these stages can help you take proper care of your piercing and recognize what to expect during the healing process.

1. Inflammatory Stage

This is the initial phase right after getting pierced. During this time, you might experience redness, swelling, and some bleeding. The body’s immune system is reacting to the piercing as a wound. It’s common to feel tenderness or slight discomfort. Proper cleaning and care are crucial in this stage to prevent infection.

2. Proliferative Stage

In this stage, the body starts healing the wound. You’ll notice the redness and swelling begin to subside. A white or clear fluid, known as lymph, may exude from the piercing, forming a crust around the jewelry. This is a normal part of the healing process. The piercing may still be sensitive, so continue to handle it gently and maintain a strict cleaning regimen.

3. Maturation Stage

This is the final stage of healing, where the body strengthens and stabilizes the tissue around the piercing. The new tissue, called scar tissue, forms completely around the piercing, reducing the risk of infection.

During this stage, the piercing will feel less tender and more integrated into your ear. However, it’s still important to maintain good hygiene practices.

How Should You Take Care of Tragus Piercing?

Proper aftercare is crucial for the healing and maintenance of a tragus piercing. Here are the key steps and tips to follow:

Avoid Swimming: Stay away from swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, and other bodies of water while your piercing is healing. These places can harbor bacteria which can lead to infections.

Beware of Phone Usage: If the piercing is on your preferred side for phone use, try to use headphones or the speaker function to avoid contact and pressure on the piercing.

Clean Regularly: Clean your piercing at least twice a day with a saline solution. You can either purchase a pre-made saline solution or make your own by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt into one cup of boiled and cooled water.

Soak a clean cotton ball or gauze in the solution and gently apply it to the pierced area. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol-based solutions as they can be too harsh.

Avoid Touching: Try not to touch your tragus piercing unless you’re cleaning it. If you need to touch it, wash your hands thoroughly first. This reduces the risk of introducing bacteria and causing an infection.

Keep it Dry: After cleaning or getting your piercing wet (like after a shower), gently pat it dry with a clean, disposable paper product. Avoid using cloth towels as they can harbour bacteria and snag on the jewelry.

Avoid Pressure: Be mindful of not sleeping on the side of your new piercing, as this can cause unnecessary pressure and irritation. Consider using a travel pillow to keep pressure off your ear while sleeping.

Watch Your Hair and Skincare Products: Be careful with hair and skincare products around your piercing. Shampoos, conditioners, hairsprays, and other beauty products can irritate your piercing. Try to keep these products away from the pierced area.

Diet and Hygiene: Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to support your body’s healing process. Also, ensure general ear hygiene, keeping your ears clean and free from excess build-up of hair products or other substances.

Jewelry Options for Tragus Piercing

Here’s a list of jewelry options you should know before getting the piercing.

1. Studs

Often the preferred choice for initial piercings, studs are comfortable and less likely to get caught on clothing or hair. They come in various designs, including flat-backed labret studs, which are particularly comfortable and secure.

Small Tragus Stud
Small Tragus Stud

2. Barbells

Miniature straight or curved barbells can be a stylish option for tragus piercings. They are versatile and come in different lengths and styles. Curved barbells are sometimes preferred for their ergonomic fit.

3. Hoops and Rings

Hoops or captive bead rings give a classic look and are popular for fully healed tragus piercings. They can be looped through the piercing, providing a different aesthetic from studs or barbells.

Captive Bead Rings For Tragus Piercing
Captive Bead Rings For Tragus Piercing

4. Horseshoe Rings

Shaped like a horseshoe, these rings have balls or spikes on either end. They offer a unique look and can be an interesting alternative to standard hoops.

Sterling Silver Tragus Earrings
Sterling Silver Tragus Earrings

5. Seamless Rings

These are smooth, continuous rings without beads, offering a sleek and minimalistic appearance. They’re ideal for a clean and understated look.

6. Clicker Rings

These feature a hinged segment that easily opens and closes, making them convenient for insertion and removal. They come in various designs and are appreciated for both their aesthetic appeal and ease of use.

Microdermals
Microdermals

7. Bioplast or Bioflex Jewelry

Made from a flexible and hypoallergenic material, these are great for those with sensitivities to metals. They are also comfortable, reducing the risk of irritation during the healing process.

elephant tragus earrings
Elephant Tragus Earrings

Cost Breakdown for Tragus Piercing

The total estimated cost for tragus piercing can be $50 to $150 or more. How? Here’s a breakdown for you.

  • Piercing Service Fee: The fee for the actual piercing service usually ranges from $30 – $50. This cost can vary based on the studio’s location (urban areas often charge more) and the piercer’s experience and reputation.
  • Jewelry Cost: The cost of initial jewelry for a tragus piercing can range from $15 to $50 or more, depending on the material (surgical steel, titanium, gold, etc.) and design complexity. High-quality or designer pieces can cost more.
  • Aftercare Products: Saline solution, which is recommended for cleaning the piercing, can cost around $5 to $15. Some people choose to make their saline solution using non-iodized sea salt and distilled water, which can be slightly cheaper.

You may need to pay a tip that’s typically 15-20% of the service fee.

Additional aftercare products like sterile wipes or sprays may cost an additional $5 to $20.

Follow-up visits, if not included in the initial service fee, might incur extra charges, especially if you need to consult the piercer about healing issues.

Combining all these factors, the total cost for a tragus piercing can range from approximately $50 to $150 or more, not including follow-up visits or future jewelry changes.

Parting Words

Thanks for still being with us! We hope that you have a clear idea about tragus piercing.

Tragus piercing is a unique form of body modification that involves piercing the small cartilage at the front of the ear canal. You must choose a reputable piercer and high-quality jewelry, usually studs or rings, to ensure a safe and smooth piercing experience.

The healing process typically takes 3-6 months, and diligent aftercare is crucial to avoid infections. The cost varies, but prioritizing quality and safety over price is key.

Remember, patience and proper care are essential for a healthy and stylish tragus piercing.

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