What is a conch piercing?
The conch piercing is located in the central part of the ear cartilage, which resembles the shape of a conch shell.
That's what a conch shell is.
There are different types of conch piercings, such as internal and external conch piercings. It is done with a labret-style barbell.
If you would like to know the symbolism and meaning of different ear piercings, you can read our article dedicated to the meaning of ear piercings .
Types of conch piercing
Internal conch piercing
The internal conch piercing is located in the middle of the ear cartilage, closer to the daith (the fold of cartilage above the entrance to the ear canal). This type of piercing is usually done with a barbell and may take longer to heal due to its location.
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This location is extremely rare; the "classic" conch will be the outer conch. |
External conch piercing
The external conch piercing is the most common type of conch piercing. It is done on the outer edge of the ear cartilage and can be placed in various locations, such as the upper and lower conch. This type of piercing allows for more jewelry options, such as rings, and generally heals faster than the internal conch piercing.
@STUDS / INSTAGRAM / BYRDIE
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This is the most common conch piercing; it is more comfortable, heals faster, and offers more possibilities for personalization in terms of jewelry. |
Double conch piercing
A double conch piercing consists of two conch piercings placed one above the other or horizontally. This creates an interesting layered effect and offers even more styling options.
Credits : ASSOLARI
To learn more about another cartilage piercing often associated with the conch, you can consult our daith piercing guide .
Orbital conch piercing
The orbital conch piercing is a rarer piercing that requires two holes. One hole is made in the outer conch and another in the outer cartilage of the ear (where helix piercings are usually done). A ring is then inserted through both holes, creating the effect that the jewelry orbits around the ear cartilage.
Josh Allgood / TWITTER
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This piercing is extremely rare. Few piercers perform it, and it requires a very specific anatomy. Furthermore, it is particularly painful and difficult to heal. |
What is the price of a conch piercing?
The price of a conch piercing can vary depending on where you get it done and the type of jewelry you choose. Generally, the cost of a conch piercing is between 30 and 50 euros, not including the price of the jewelry. It is important to choose a professional and reputable piercer to ensure that the piercing is done safely and hygienically.
We explain how to choose your piercer in our complete guide to ear piercing .
Does a conch piercing hurt?
The conch piercing goes through a fairly dense area of cartilage, which explains why it's often perceived as more sensitive than a helix or lobe piercing, but less intense than a daith piercing. The pain is usually brief: a marked pressure, followed by a rapid peak that subsides immediately. Many people compare this sensation to a sharp pinch.
but very short.
The level of discomfort depends mainly on your body shape and the technique used.
When the cartilage is thick or the area is somewhat concave, the piercer may need to precisely adjust the needle's trajectory, which slightly intensifies the sensation. After the piercing, localized warmth, tension, or a pulsating sensation in the ear are normal reactions during the first few days.
A clean, single-handed piercing, combined with a well-sized ASTM F-136 titanium piece, significantly reduces pain and allows the area to heal more quickly. Generally, most clients describe getting a conch piercing as an intense but very manageable experience that lasts only a few seconds.
Healing time for a conch piercing
The healing time for a conch piercing depends on various factors, such as the piercing method used, aftercare, and the individual's overall health. Generally, a conch piercing can take between three and nine months to heal completely. It is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer to promote a quick and uncomplicated healing process.
What care is needed for a conch piercing?
Proper aftercare for a conch piercing is essential to promote proper healing and prevent any problems you might encounter. Here are some tips for taking care of your conch piercing:
- Clean your piercing gently with a sterile saline solution twice a day. Avoid using soap or irritating products.
- Avoid touching or handling your piercing with dirty hands.
- Avoid sleeping on the side of the piercing during the healing period.
- Avoid wearing earphones or headphones during the healing period.
- Avoid changing your jewelry before the piercing is completely healed.
- Consult a professional if you notice signs of infection, such as redness, pain, swelling, or abnormal discharge.
Common irritations and problems with a conch piercing
Like all cartilage piercings, the conch piercing can react to certain daily friction or movements. Irritations are usually minor, but they can slow healing if the area is overused.
The most frequent causes of irritation are:
- the pressure exerted on the piercing while sleeping
- the earphones that press directly on the area
- hair, caps or scarves that pull on the jewelry
- the jewelry change done too soon
- A piece of jewelry that is too long or too short creates a constant micro-movement.
Slight redness, tenderness to the touch, or temporary swelling are common reactions during the healing process. These usually disappear within a few days when the area is left to rest and cleaned according to your piercer's recommendations.
If the irritation persists, worsens, or if you have any doubts, it's advisable to return to your piercer for their opinion. In most cases, a few simple adjustments (changing the length, repositioning the jewelry, or aftercare advice) are enough to improve the situation.
