Triple Cartilage Piercing, a trend that’s caught the fancy of many, is quite the statement in the world of body art. It’s where you get not one, not two, but three piercings on the cartilage part of your ear.
Now, what does it mean, if you ask? Well, in many ways, it’s a nod to individuality and boldness. Opting for Triple Cartilage Piercing is a way of saying, ‘I’m not afraid to stand out’. It’s a choice that shows you’re up for embracing something a bit different, a bit edgy.
But before you dash off to the nearest piercing studio, there are a couple of things you might want to consider.
In this article, we will talk about the most important things you should know before getting a triple cartilage piercing.
Is Tripple Cartilage Piercing and Helix Piercing The Same?
Triple Cartilage Piercing and Helix Piercing are related but they’re not exactly the same. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Helix Piercing is a specific type of cartilage piercing. It’s done on the upper part of the ear’s cartilage, you know, the outer rim of your ear.
Now, when we talk about Triple Cartilage Piercing, it’s more of a broad term. It refers to having three cartilage piercings, but these can be anywhere on the ear’s cartilage.
So, a Triple Cartilage Piercing could include a Helix Piercing as one of the three, or it could be a combination of different cartilage piercings, depending on what you fancy and how you want your ear to look.
In essence, all Helix Piercings are cartilage piercings, but not all cartilage piercings are Helix Piercings.
Is Triple Cartilage and Triple Forward Helix Piercing The Same?
Ah, now this is where it gets a bit more specific. Triple Cartilage Piercing and Triple Forward Helix Piercing are similar in that they both involve three piercings, but they’re located in different parts of the ear.
Triple Cartilage Piercing is a general term that refers to any three piercings on the cartilage of the ear. These can be anywhere on the ear’s cartilage – upper, lower, front, back, you name it.
It’s quite flexible in terms of placement and can vary a lot from person to person.
On the other hand, the Triple Forward Helix Piercing is very specific. It involves three piercings placed closely together on the forward helix.
Now, the forward helix is that little bit of cartilage at the front of your ear, right where your ear meets your face. It’s a more specific and defined area compared to the broad scope of Triple Cartilage Piercing.
So, while both styles involve three piercings, the Triple Forward Helix Piercing is a specific type of Triple Cartilage Piercing with a specific location.
Types of Triple Cartilage Piercings
Triple Cartilage Piercings uncovers a realm of creative and stylish options. Each type offers a unique way to express your personality and style.
1. Triple Helix Piercing
The Triple Helix Piercing is a striking choice, featuring three piercings along the upper outer rim of your ear.
The arrangement can be linear or staggered, depending on your preference and the anatomy of your ear. It’s crucial to consider the space available on your ear’s cartilage to ensure a comfortable fit and an appealing look.
This type can be a bit more painful due to the cartilage’s thickness and may require a longer healing time.
2. Triple Forward Helix Piercing
Located on the ear’s front upper cartilage, the Triple Forward Helix Piercing offers a unique and modern look.
It involves three piercings placed in a vertical line down the ear’s front rim, close to the face. This style is particularly eye-catching when adorned with small studs or gems.
However, due to the limited space in this area, precise placement is key, and it’s vital to have a skilled piercer. Healing can be challenging due to its location, so diligent aftercare is essential.
3. Triple Conch Piercing
The Triple Conch Piercing involves three piercings within the ear’s central cartilage area, known as the conch. Placement is flexible, either in a vertical or horizontal line or clustered.
This type offers a unique canvas for creative jewellery arrangements, like a combination of hoops and studs. It’s important to have enough space in the conch area for this piercing style.
Healing times can be lengthy, and care must be taken to avoid irritation from headphones or sleeping on that side.
4. Triple Lobe Piercing
A more traditional yet stylish option, the Triple Lobe Piercing consists of three piercings on the earlobe.
This type is generally less painful and heals faster than cartilage piercings. It allows for a wide range of jewellery choices, from classic studs to more decorative earrings.
It’s important to space the piercings correctly for balance and to accommodate different earring sizes.
How Is Triple Cartilage Piercing Done?
Getting a Triple Cartilage Piercing is a procedure that requires careful consideration and skill. Here’s a straightforward look at the steps involved:
Consultation and Planning: Before anything, you’ll have a chat with your piercer. This is when you discuss your desired placement, type of piercing, and any concerns you might have.
Your piercer will examine your ear’s anatomy to ensure the chosen spots are suitable and will look good. It’s also the perfect time to ask questions about the process, aftercare, and healing times.
Cleaning and Marking: Next, your piercer will clean your ear thoroughly to prevent infection. They’ll then mark the exact spots where the piercings will go.
You get to check these marks in a mirror to confirm you’re happy with the placement. It’s important to get this bit right, as it dictates how your piercings will look.
The Piercing Process: The actual piercing is typically done with a sterile, hollow needle. The piercer will pierce each marked spot one by one. While some discomfort is inevitable, it’s usually over quite quickly.
Jewellery Insertion: Immediately after each piercing, the piercer will insert your chosen jewellery. It’s crucial to choose high-quality, hypoallergenic materials to minimize the risk of allergic reactions and aid the healing process.
How to Take Care of Triple Cartilage Piercing?
For a Triple Cartilage Piercing, the general healing time typically ranges from 6 months to a full year. However, it’s not uncommon for complete healing to take up to 18 months in some cases.
During the healing period, following aftercare instructions is a must. Below are the details for you.
Clean Regularly: There’s a common method that’s widely used for sanitizing pierced areas.
For the process, you need to use a saline solution that can either be homemade or a purchased one. To make it yourself, you need to take a cup of water and mix 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in it.
Gentle Touch: Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your piercings. It’s important to minimize contact to avoid introducing bacteria to the area.
Avoid Irritants: Stay clear of products like lotions, sprays, and perfumes around the piercing area. These can irritate and potentially delay healing.
Keep It Dry: After cleaning or getting the area wet (like after a shower), make sure you pat the pierced area dry using a disposable paper towel. It’s better not to use cloth towels for the job. Why? It’s because they can harbor bacteria and snag on the jewellery.
Don’t Twist or Turn the Jewellery: Unlike traditional lobe piercings, cartilage piercings shouldn’t be twisted or turned as this can irritate the skin and disrupt the healing process.
Hair Care: Be mindful when brushing or styling your hair. It’s easy for hair to get tangled in the jewellery, which can cause pain and hinder healing.
Consider tying your hair back or styling it away from your piercings, especially in the initial healing phase.
Changing Your Jewellery: Don’t be in a rush to change your jewellery. Wait until the piercing is fully healed, which can be up to a year or more. When it’s time to change, it’s best to get help from a professional piercer to avoid damaging the delicate tissue.
What Jewelry to Wear with Triple Cartilage Piercing
When it comes to adorning your Triple Cartilage Piercing, there are numerous jewellery options to explore, each offering its own unique style and flair. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right pieces:
1. Available Jewelry Options
Studs: Studs are a classic choice, offering a simple yet elegant look. They’re particularly suitable for a minimalist style or if you want your piercing to be understated.
Hoops and Rings: Hoops or rings can give a more noticeable, edgy appearance. They are versatile and come in various sizes and designs.
Barbells: Straight or curved barbells are another popular option. They are especially suited for piercings like the forward helix or the industrial (though the latter requires specific ear anatomy).
Labret Studs: These are similar to regular studs but have a flat back, making them comfortable for areas where the back of the jewellery might press against your skin, like in Triple Forward Helix Piercing.
Captive Bead Rings: These consist of a hoop and a bead, offering a balance between the simplicity of studs and the visibility of hoops.
2. Material Suggestions
Surgical Stainless Steel: A common choice due to its affordability and hypoallergenic properties.
Titanium: Lightweight and highly resistant to corrosion, titanium is ideal for sensitive skin.
Gold: If opting for gold, choose 14k or 18k to avoid skin reactions. Avoid gold-plated jewellery as it can wear off and expose less skin-friendly metals.
Niobium: Similar to titanium, niobium is hypoallergenic and comes in a variety of colors.
3. Sizing Guide
Gauge: The thickness of the jewellery is referred to as the gauge. Common gauges for cartilage piercings range from 16G to 18 G. Your piercer will advise on the best gauge for your ear.
Diameter or Length: For hoops and rings, the diameter will depend on how snug or loose you want the fit. Typically, diameters range from 6mm to 10mm. For studs and barbells, the length should accommodate swelling during the healing process, usually around 6mm to 8mm.
Pricing Idea for Triple Cartilage Piercing
The price range for a Triple Cartilage Piercing can be around $90 – 180 or more. However, the prices can change based on the factors below.
Location and Studio Reputation: Prices can differ significantly based on where you are. In bigger cities or at highly reputable studios, you can expect to pay more. These places often have experienced piercers who follow strict hygiene standards, which is crucial for a good piercing experience.
Piercer’s Expertise: A piercer with a lot of experience and a strong portfolio will often charge more. Remember, you’re paying for their skill and knowledge, which is vital for a procedure like this.
Jewellery Quality: The cost will also depend on the type of jewellery you choose. High-quality materials like titanium, gold, or surgical steel will cost more but are worth the investment for their hypoallergenic properties and durability.
Wrapping Up
Now, you know A to Z about Triple Cartilage Piercing. There are various types like the Helix, Forward Helix, Conch, and Lobe that you can try out.
While it’s a trendy choice, remember it requires a longer healing time of 6-18 months and diligent aftercare to prevent infection. Costs vary based on location, piercer expertise, and jewellery quality. When deciding on this piercing, prioritize safety and professional service over price.
Lastly, be patient with the healing process and enjoy your new, distinctive look!