In the world of ear piercings, colloquially known as “Ear Piercing,” there’s an iconic and very bold type of piercing, originating around the 90s, that gives a distinctive and original look to those who choose it.
We’re talking about the industrial piercing, made popular in the 90s by Jim Ward, one of the pioneers of modern body piercing, and known as an alternative, bold, and rebellious piercing.
In this article, we’re going to analyze the industrial piercing, explaining in detail what it is, how it’s done, the aftercare to follow, and providing some tips on the subject.
What is an Industrial Piercing?
The industrial piercing consists of two holes generally placed in the upper ear cartilage, connected by a single straight bar, which is called a barbell.
The most common type is the diagonal, with the bar angled from one point to another on the cartilage (one near the head and the other in the center of the outer ear), but there are also other variations such as:
- Vertical Industrial Piercing: a barbell connecting vertically positioned holes on the ear, extending directly through the lobe.
- Horizontal Industrial Piercing: a bar connecting horizontally positioned holes on the ear.
- Multiple Industrial (or Double Industrial Piercing): several parallel bars that cross, creating complex designs.
This piercing can therefore be customized based on the ear’s anatomy, the desired design, and personal taste.
The Industrial Piercing Technique
The industrial piercing requires great precision and dexterity from the piercer performing it.
The process must strictly begin with a thorough visual inspection of the ear, useful for carefully observing the anatomy of the area and ensuring there are no wounds, irritations, or skin problems, to determine if the piercings can be performed without risks.
If the ear does not have a sufficiently wide fold on the cartilage at the edge, it is advisable to opt for another type of piercing to avoid possible complications.
If, however, the area is suitable, the piercer proceeds with the procedure.
It begins with a thorough cleaning of the ear to reduce the risk of infection. Subsequently, the points where the holes will be made are precisely marked, ensuring they are perfectly aligned.
Once the area is prepared, the piercer must use a sterile hollow needle to perforate the ear cartilage, creating two separate holes, prepared to be connected by a straight bar.
After the perforations are complete, it is important to immediately insert the jewelry, an industrial bar that passes through both openings, joining them stably and securely and closing them with the fixing balls.
Since it is a delicate area and the cartilage is denser and more compact than the lobe, the industrial piercing is generally more painful than other types of ear piercings, leaving prolonged sensitivity in the area.
Industrial Piercing Care and Healing
The healing time for an industrial piercing varies from 6 to 12 months depending on the person. The total duration can be influenced by the body’s response to the piercing, cleanliness and care, and the piercer’s skill during the procedure.
In the first few weeks, it is recommended to wash the new piercing daily with extreme care, avoiding the use of alcohol or overly aggressive products, and gently drying it with clean paper after showering.
It’s important not to touch the piercing with dirty hands, not to rotate or manipulate the jewelry, and to avoid bumps (catching the piercing with hair, headphones, or glasses) to prevent irritation and infection or delay the healing process.
Pay close attention during sleep: it’s better to sleep on the opposite side or use a pillow to reduce pressure.
It is also not recommended to immerse a freshly done industrial piercing in water (sea, lake, pool, etc.), nor to remove the jewelry prematurely during its healing.
Finally, it is very important to monitor the holes for any signs of infection such as redness, swelling, intense pain, or pus discharge. In case of suspected infection, it is advisable to immediately consult your piercer or a healthcare professional.
It is crucial not to confuse these signs with the discharge of a white/yellowish liquid, which is absolutely normal: this is lymphatic secretion, a serum composed of blood plasma, lymph, and dead cells, and it means the healing process is underway.
Industrial Piercing Tips
Having explained the execution procedure, the necessary care, and healing times, we want to focus on the ideal jewelry for industrial piercings.
The most common choice is the Straight Barbell, available in different materials, lengths, and decorations, both minimalist and classic, and customizable with balls, cones, or other ornaments at the ends.
The Curved Barbell is also very fashionable, as are those with custom decorations and designs, ideal for ears with particular anatomy.
Regarding dimensions, it’s best to start with a standard thickness of 1.6 mm and a bar length between 30 and 38 mm, then change the jewelry once healed, even opting for two different pieces of jewelry.
In terms of materials recommended for industrial piercing jewelry, these include:
- Titanium: hypoallergenic, lightweight, and ideal for healing.
- Surgical Steel: durable, but not always suitable for sensitive skin.
- Niobium: hypoallergenic alternative with colored finishes.
- Bioplast or PTFE: flexible, suitable for reducing pressure during healing.
- Gold: yellow or white, appropriate for piercings if it is 14k or higher.
Finally, as a concluding tip, we feel it’s important to say that, as this is a less common piercing than others and placed in a particular area, it is always essential to consult a professional piercer, with proven experience in industrial piercings and excellent technique and dexterity.
Become a Professional Piercer at MTS
There is a specific path for all individuals who want to pursue a professional career in the world of piercing.
We are talking about the piercing technician course, mandatory according to the new provisions regulated by Regional Law no. 13 of July 23, 2021. This is a training program lasting 1500 hours, at the end of which, if the final exam is passed, a Regional Certification recognized throughout the national and European territory is issued.
At Milano Tattoo School, the next piercing technician course starts on September 29, 2025.
It represents the most complete, comprehensive, and intensive program in Italy, with a training curriculum structured to provide all the theoretical and practical skills necessary to excel in the sector:
- In-depth theory and intensive practice, with exercises on silicone anatomical models and practical sessions on human models, under the supervision of experts.
- Full support from an elite teaching staff, composed of industry professionals with years of experience in the field of piercing and body modification.
- Exclusive workshops and seminars with high-profile international artists, to learn advanced techniques and discover the latest industry trends.
- Field experience for practical training through internships at MTS-affiliated professional piercing studios.
An unmissable opportunity to turn your passion into a profession and become a leader in the world of piercing!
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