Conch piercings have become a popular choice for people who want something different and stylish for their ears. This piercing goes through the thick cartilage of the ear, either in the inner or outer part. You can wear different types of jewelry like studs or hoops, which makes it a fun way to personalize your look. Although it can hurt a bit during the piercing, with proper care, it heals well and can last a long time, giving you a unique and eye-catching accessory.
What is a Conch Piercing?
A conch piercing is a type of ear piercing that goes through the cartilage of the ear’s conch, the large, central part of the ear. This piercing can be done in two areas: the inner conch, which is located in the lower part of the ear’s central cartilage, and the outer conch, positioned higher up near the curve of the ear. The placement of the piercing allows for a variety of jewelry options, including studs, hoops, and barbells, making it a stylish and customizable choice for those who want a unique ear piercing.
Unlike traditional lobe piercings, a conch piercing sits in the thick cartilage, giving it a distinctive and bold look. It is popular among individuals who enjoy curated ear styles, as it can be combined with other piercings to create an eye-catching arrangement. The name “conch” comes from the ear’s resemblance to a conch shell, highlighting its natural, curved shape. Due to its placement, this piercing is often chosen by those looking for a standout yet elegant addition to their ear jewelry.
How Much Is a Conch Piercing?
The cost of a conch piercing typically ranges from $30 to $100, depending on the location, the piercer’s experience, and the type of jewelry used. High-end studios with professional piercers may charge more, especially if they use high-quality jewelry made from titanium, gold, or implant-grade stainless steel. Some studios include the jewelry in the price, while others charge separately, which can increase the overall cost.
Additional factors that may affect the price include the studio’s reputation, hygiene standards, and whether you choose an inner or outer conch piercing. It’s always recommended to go to a professional piercer with proper sterilization practices rather than opting for a cheaper option that may compromise safety. Investing in a skilled piercer and high-quality jewelry can help reduce the risk of infections and ensure a better healing process.
How Long Does a Conch Piercing Take to Heal?
A conch piercing typically takes 6 to 12 months to fully heal, though the exact healing time varies depending on individual factors such as aftercare, lifestyle, and overall health. Since this piercing goes through thick cartilage, it heals more slowly than standard lobe piercings. While the outer layers of the piercing may seem healed within a few months, the deeper tissue takes longer to fully recover.
Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth healing process. Keeping the piercing clean, avoiding unnecessary touching, and preventing irritation from headphones or sleeping positions can help speed up healing. Even if the piercing feels fine after a few months, it’s important to continue gentle care until it is fully healed to avoid complications like bumps or infections.
Do Conch Piercings Hurt?
Yes, conch piercings can be painful because they go through the thick cartilage of the ear. The level of pain varies from person to person, but most describe it as a sharp pinch followed by pressure during the piercing process. On a pain scale of 1 to 10, a conch piercing typically ranks around 6 to 8, depending on individual pain tolerance. Since cartilage is denser than soft tissue like the earlobe, the needle has to push through a tougher area, making it more painful than a standard lobe piercing.
However, the pain is usually brief and lasts only a few seconds during the procedure. Afterward, some throbbing, swelling, and tenderness are common for a few days, similar to other cartilage piercings. The pain level also depends on factors like the expertise of the piercer, personal sensitivity, and how well aftercare is followed. Choosing a skilled piercer and taking proper care of the piercing can help reduce discomfort and ensure a smoother healing process.
What Gauge Is a Conch Piercing?
A conch piercing is typically done with a 16-gauge (1.2mm) or 14-gauge (1.6mm) needle, depending on the piercer’s preference and the client’s ear anatomy. The gauge refers to the thickness of the jewelry used in the piercing, with lower numbers indicating thicker jewelry. Most standard conch piercings start at 16G, but some people prefer a 14G piercing for a slightly thicker and more durable jewelry option.
If you want to stretch your conch piercing to accommodate larger jewelry, you may need to start with a smaller gauge and gradually increase the size over time. However, this should be done carefully to avoid damaging the cartilage. Always consult a professional piercer before changing the gauge of your jewelry to ensure a safe and comfortable fit.
How to Pierce a Conch?
Piercing a conch involves carefully puncturing the thick cartilage in the center of the ear. This procedure should only be done by a professional piercer using sterile tools to minimize risks like infections or improper placement. The process typically begins with the piercer cleaning the ear and marking the exact spot where the piercing will go. The placement depends on whether it is an inner conch piercing (closer to the ear canal) or an outer conch piercing (higher on the cartilage curve).
Once the placement is confirmed, the piercer uses a sterile hollow needle, usually 16G or 14G, to create the hole. A receiving tube may be placed behind the ear to guide the needle safely. Unlike some ear piercings, a conch piercing should never be done with a piercing gun, as it can damage the cartilage. After the hole is made, the piercer inserts the chosen jewelry, typically a stud, barbell, or hoop. The final step involves cleaning the area and providing aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.
What Size is a Conch Piercing?
Here is a detailed table provides a comprehensive guide to the sizes used for conch piercings, including gauges, hoop sizes, and barbell lengths.
| Size Category | Measurement | Description |
| Standard Gauge | 16G (1.2mm) or 14G (1.6mm) | Most conch piercings are done at 16G or 14G, depending on anatomy. |
| Alternative Gauge | 18G (1.0mm) (Less Common) | Some piercers may use 18G, but it’s less common for cartilage piercings. |
| Initial Jewelry Diameter | 10mm to 12mm (For hoops) | Hoop jewelry typically starts at 10mm to 12mm in diameter. |
| Smaller Hoop Size | 8mm to 10mm (Snug fit) | Smaller hoops for a snugger fit against the ear. |
| Larger Hoop Size | 12mm to 14mm (Looser fit) | Larger hoops allow for a more open and dangly look. |
| Common Barbell Length | 6mm to 8mm (For studs and barbells) | Straight or curved barbells usually range from 6mm to 8mm in length. |
| Stretched Conch Sizes | Can be stretched to 12G (2mm) or larger | Some people stretch their conch piercing over time for larger jewelry. |
When Can You Change Your Conch Piercing?
You should wait at least 6 to 12 months before changing your conch piercing jewelry. While the outer part of the piercing may look healed within a few months, the inner cartilage tissue takes longer to fully recover. Changing the jewelry too soon can cause irritation, prolong healing, or lead to infections. It’s best to wait until there is no pain, swelling, or discharge before switching to new jewelry.
If you’re unsure whether your piercing is ready for a jewelry change, consult your piercer. They can check the healing progress and safely replace the jewelry if needed. For the first change, it’s recommended to use high-quality jewelry made of titanium, gold, or implant-grade steel to minimize irritation. Always clean your hands and the new jewelry before inserting it to avoid complications.
How to Remove a Conch Piercing?
Removing a conch piercing should be done with care to avoid irritation or damage to the ear. It’s important to wait until the piercing is fully healed before attempting to remove the jewelry. Here are the steps to safely remove a conch piercing:
- Wash your hands: Before touching the piercing or jewelry, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection.
- Clean the piercing area: Gently clean the area around the piercing with saline solution or a mild antiseptic to ensure it’s free of dirt or bacteria.
- Loosen the jewelry: If you’re using a stud or barbell, gently unscrew the ends of the jewelry. If it’s a hoop, open the hoop by slightly pulling apart the ends.
- Remove the jewelry: Slowly and gently pull the jewelry out of the piercing. Avoid force, as this could irritate or damage the tissue.
- Clean again: After removing the jewelry, clean the area again to prevent any infection or bacteria buildup.
- Check for healing: If you’re planning to re-pierce, wait until the area is fully healed and free from any irritation.
It’s always best to consult a professional piercer if you’re unsure about removing the jewelry on your own, especially if it’s causing discomfort.
How to Clean a Conch Piercing?
Cleaning a conch piercing is crucial to prevent infections and promote healing. Here are the steps to properly clean your conch piercing:
- Clean the Piercing with Saline Solution: Use a saline solution or a piercing-specific aftercare spray to clean the area. Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh antiseptics, as these can irritate the healing tissue. You can either soak a clean cotton ball or pad in the saline solution and gently apply it to the piercing or spray the solution directly onto the area.
- Gently Clean the Jewelry: Use a cotton swab to clean around the jewelry, making sure to remove any buildup of crust or debris. Avoid twisting or moving the jewelry unnecessarily, as this can disrupt the healing process.
- Rinse and Pat Dry: After cleaning, rinse the area with clean water to remove any solution residue. Then, gently pat the piercing dry with a clean paper towel or tissue.
- Repeat Regularly: Clean your conch piercing 2 to 3 times a day for the first few months until the piercing has fully healed. Avoid over-cleaning, as it can cause dryness and irritation.
Following these steps will help ensure your conch piercing stays clean and heals properly without complications. Always follow your piercer’s aftercare instructions for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can wear AirPods with a conch piercing, but it’s important to be cautious not to put pressure on the piercing to avoid irritation or discomfort.
To treat a swollen conch piercing, apply a saline solution, avoid touching it with dirty hands, and refrain from sleeping on that side to promote healing.
It’s best to wait at least 6-12 months before changing your conch piercing to a hoop to allow enough time for proper healing.
You can consider downsizing your conch piercing once the piercing has fully healed, usually around 3-6 months, but consult your piercer for guidance.
Typically, a conch piercing is done with a stud initially, but a hoop can be used after healing, depending on your personal preference and the piercer’s recommendation.
It’s unlikely that your conch piercing will close overnight, but if the jewelry is removed too soon, it can begin to close, especially within the first few weeks.
No, conch piercings are placed on the inner ear cartilage, while orbital piercings involve two holes connected by jewelry, usually in the outer ear.
No, conch piercings are not trashy; they are a stylish and bold form of body art that can be very fashionable when cared for properly.