The helix is the ridge of cartilage running around the edge of the pinna, or external part of the ear. The outer helix piercing usually refers to piercings through the helix, from above the earlobe to the top of the ear. The piercing through the helix toward the front of the ear is usually referred to as a forward helix.
Healing cartilage piercings can be difficult, so at Infinite we start most cartilage piercings with straight posts for the healing period. (If you plan on wearing a ring once your piercing is fully healed, let your piercer know, as they may adjust the angle or placement of the initial piercing.) Multiple helix piercings can be done on the same ear, but because of the long healing time we will not do cartilage piercings on different ears at the same time. (You need to use one ear to sleep on, use the phone, etc.) Suggested initial jewelry is usually a 16 gauge press-fit titanium post, which you can get get with anything from a basic, plain ball to ornate gold and diamond ends—and everything in-between. For some of the dozens of options we stock for helix piercing jewelry, check out our selection of press-fit posts and ends in our online store.
Outer helix piercing and forward helix piercings can also be done in pairs and connected by a long barbell, commonly called an industrial piercing. Outer helix piercings are typically placed in the "valley" around the edge of the ear, but placement can be moved inward (toward the antihelix). These are piercings are often called a "flat," and are great for showing off more decorative jewelry.
