Can I use a hoop cartilage earring on a newly pierced hole?

It is not recommended. For a new piercing, professionals usually advise starting with a stud (straight bar or labret) as they offer greater stability and less movement. This reduces irritation and the risk of jewelry migration.

• Hoops, or hoop cartilage earrings, tend to move more, which can prolong healing time and introduce bacteria more easily.
• Once the piercing is fully healed (at least 6 months, ideally longer), you can switch to a hoop without problems.

What types of closures do EarCandy cartilage piercings offer and which is the safest?

At EarCandy, we prioritize safety and comfort in all our cartilage piercing closures. The most common types we offer are:

• Internal thread closure (Labret): It is highly secure and the most recommended for cartilage piercings. The thread is on the bar, and the decoration screws in, leaving a smooth surface inside the piercing, which minimizes irritation.
• Push-pin closure: Very popular for its ease of changing jewelry without screwing. It uses tension to keep the jewelry in place.
• Clicker closure (for hoops): It is the most practical for hoop earrings once the piercing is healed. It opens and closes with a secure and easy-to-handle "click."

Are yellow or rose gold cartilage earrings suitable for sensitive skin?

Absolutely! Gold, in its yellow and rose versions, is one of the most biocompatible materials available. At EarCandy, we offer high-quality gold cartilage piercings that are ideal for sensitive skin:

• Hypoallergenic: 14k or 18k gold is less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to lower-quality metals.
• Durability: Gold cartilage earrings are an investment that maintains their shine and resistance to tarnish with proper care.
• Recommendation: If you have sensitivity, always look for solid gold, as gold plating can wear off over time.

How can I determine the right bar size for my helix cartilage piercing?

Choosing the correct bar length (or labret) is crucial for comfort and healing. If the bar is too short, it can embed; if too long, it can move too much and irritate the piercing.

• For an initial piercing, a slightly longer bar is used to accommodate swelling.
• Once healed, most helix cartilage piercings fit bars from 6 mm to 8 mm, depending on your ear’s anatomy.
• If you already have a cartilage earring, the best way to know the size is by measuring the length of the current bar (only the part that goes through the ear) or consulting your piercer.

Is it normal for my cartilage piercing to hurt or be swollen during healing?

It is very common to experience mild pain, swelling, and redness during the initial healing phase of a cartilage piercing. This is part of the healing process.

• Initial pain and swelling: This can last the first few days or weeks. Follow care and cleaning instructions.
• If swelling persists or worsens after several weeks, or if you notice green or bright yellow discharge, it could be a sign of infection. In this case, consult a professional.
• Never remove the cartilage earring if you suspect an infection, as this could trap it inside the tissue.

What is the difference between a cartilage earring and a lobe earring?

Although they sometimes look similar, they are designed for different parts of the ear and often have different closure mechanisms.

• Thickness (Gauge): Cartilage piercings usually have a standard thickness of 16G (approximately 1.2mm), while more traditional lobe earrings are 20G or 18G.
• Closure: Cartilage piercings almost always use threaded or push closures to secure the jewelry firmly in the thicker tissue.
• Design: Cartilage piercing designs are optimized for smaller areas like the tragus or helix, aiming to be flat or less bulky.