Among the various types of ear piercings, one that is gaining increasing popularity is the Conch Piercing, which is performed in the concha of the ear, hence its name.
Since it is a rigid part (formed mainly by cartilage), it is always advisable to consult a professional piercer to perform a Conch Piercing, in order to avoid risks and ensure perfect healing of the piercing.
In this article, we delve into this type of piercing, explaining the execution procedure, the most common mistakes that can be made, and the specific characteristics of the Conch.
Conch Piercing: Main Characteristics
The Conch Piercing can be performed in different points of the area.
The placement depends on personal taste, the conformity of the area, and the client’s desire to later insert a hoop or just a stud when changing jewelry. It’s also possible to add ear cuffs to expand the conch into an “orbital” style.
Based on the placement of the piercing, we distinguish between:
- Outer Conch Piercing (Outer Conch): the piercing is inserted near the curve of the ear, and the jewelry passes around the outer edge of the ear cartilage.
- Inner Conch Piercing (Inner Conch): the piercing is located towards the entrance of the auricle and can be more or less external depending on the client’s desire to insert a ring in the future.
- Double Conch Piercing: two piercings are stacked in the inner conch, or an outer conch piercing and an inner conch piercing are performed.
Whatever the type of Conch, it is a thin and small piercing, yet capable of adding great charm to the ear and can be combined with lower lobe piercings or an Helix piercing.
Conch Piercing: Execution, Care, and Healing
Before proceeding with the Conch Piercing, the piercer must thoroughly sterilize the area to minimize the risk of infection.
After that, the cartilage on the edge of the ear or just slightly inward (antihelix) is pierced using an orange cannula needle and the hole is made by hand.
Initially, a straight barbell is inserted to accommodate initial swelling. The jewelry can be changed after about a month if the area is healing well, and it’s always best to opt for titanium and, for the time being, a straight piece of jewelry, waiting to insert a ring.
Since it is a fairly rigid part to pierce, complete healing can take up to 6 months, and especially during the first few weeks, swelling, redness, and prolonged sensitivity may occur.
To avoid infections or displacement of the piercing, it is important to:
- perform regular cleaning, washing the area twice a day during the initial period.
- disinfect it with specific products.
- avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands.
- do not sleep on the side with the jewelry.
- do not use hair products, makeup, or chemicals.
- Do not swim in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water for at least the first 2 weeks.
Common Problems in Conch Piercing Execution
The Conch Piercing is considered a fairly complex piercing to perform and, for this reason, requires specific preparation and excellent manual dexterity.
Among the most common mistakes inexperienced piercers can make is certainly the difficulty in piercing correctly due to the hardness of the area: cartilage has limited blood supply and is thick and dense, which makes it rigid and difficult to penetrate.
If not done correctly, it can lead to trauma that may even result in excessive scarring, such as hypertrophies and keloids.
Another common problem in Conch Piercing execution is the incorrect placement of the hole, which can lead to difficulty inserting the jewelry or an aesthetically unpleasing result.
Even a poor understanding of ear anatomy can jeopardize the success of the piercing: while it’s true that a Conch can be done by almost anyone, it’s equally true that the placement of the hole depends on the conformity of the area so that it can be comfortable in our daily lives, such as the correct resting of the jewelry on the pillow during nighttime hours.
Difference Between Conch Piercing and Helix Piercing
Conch Piercing and Helix Piercing are two types of ear piercings that differ mainly in position, appearance, and the type of jewelry used.
The Helix Piercing is performed in the upper and outer part of the auricle called the helix (the hard edge of the ear) and can be placed at different heights. The Conch Piercing, on the other hand, is done on the central cartilage of the ear, in the concave cavity near the ear canal, and can be internal or external.
Healing also differs: the Conch Piercing usually takes less time to heal as it is more internal and less stressed during daily life, while Helix healing times are generally longer (12 months) as it is constantly bothered by hair and during nighttime hours.
In conclusion, we can say that the Conch Piercing is ideal for achieving a bold and central style, while the Helix Piercing is for those who prefer a more delicate and discreet look.
Milano Tattoo School’s Piercer Courses
If you dream of pursuing a career as a piercing operator, Milano Tattoo School offers a unique and comprehensive training program lasting 1500 hours.
This course prepares you to confidently enter the world of piercing, providing all the necessary technical and professional skills and allowing you to obtain the Professional Certification from the Lombardy Region, recognized in Italy and at a European level.
Under the guidance of renowned piercer Dimitri Daleno, with almost 30 years of experience, and a faculty composed of expert piercers and professionals, each student learns the piercing techniques for the most common and commercial piercings, from ear to mouth.
The course is not limited to piercing technique, but includes:
- practical demonstrations and in-depth details through the use of 3D animations on large screens.
- practice on synthetic prosthetics and human models.
- sterilization and jewelry anodization workshops.
- gemology and goldsmithing workshops.
- exclusive workshops held by world-renowned piercers.
Milano Tattoo School boasts partnerships with over 400 piercing studios, guaranteeing internship opportunities and concrete support for professional placement after the course.
If your goal is to become a professional piercer, Milano Tattoo School is the ideal starting point for a brilliant and creative career.
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