Cartilage Piercings Explained: Helix, Flat, Tragus, Conch, Rook and Daith
Cartilage piercings include the helix, flat, tragus, conch, rook and daith. Each is $30 per ear, and you keep your flatback in for 1 year before changing it.
By BURDLIFE Studio Team ·
The short answer
A cartilage piercing goes through the firm part of your ear above the lobe. At BURDLIFE we offer the helix, flat, tragus, conch, rook and daith, all done with a needle.
The piercing is $30 per ear. Jewelry is priced separately.
Cartilage piercing types and where they sit
| Piercing | Where it sits | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Helix | The upper outer rim of the ear. | Sits on firm cartilage. Often done in more than one spot along the rim. |
| Flat | The flat area of cartilage above the lobe, inside the rim. | A broad, even surface of cartilage. |
| Tragus | The small piece of cartilage that sits in front of the ear canal. | A thick, small spot. Your piercer checks if your ear shape suits it. |
| Conch | The cupped area in the middle of the ear. | Sits on the inner bowl of the ear. Your piercer checks your ear shape first. |
| Rook | The fold of cartilage in the upper inner ear, above the conch. | A folded area, so placement depends on your ear shape. |
| Daith | The small inner fold just above the ear canal opening. | A fold of cartilage. Placement depends on your ear shape. |
Ears are all different. Your piercer will show you the placement that fits your ear before you start.
Does cartilage hurt more than the lobe?
Cartilage is firmer than the lobe, so many people feel it more. Everyone is different. Read our guide on whether ear piercing hurts for what to expect.
Healing and your first change
Keep your flatback in for 1 year before changing it. A lobe takes 6 months, so cartilage takes longer.
A new piercing starts with a longer post to leave room for swelling. If it is healing well with no swelling or soreness, come in 6 to 8 weeks later for a shorter post. The swap is $25 and takes a few minutes in studio. Do not change the post yourself.
The full timeline is in our guide on when to change earrings. To learn why flatbacks suit healing ears, read the flatback earrings guide.
Aftercare steps
- Clean twice a day Morning and night, front and back, with saline spray only.
- Let it air dry Allow the piercing to dry after cleaning.
- Keep it dry between cleans Avoid wet hair, damp pillows, sweat, pools and oceans.
- Leave it alone Do not twist or turn the jewelry. Avoid Q-tips, towels and clothing that can snag.
- No alcohol, peroxide or ointments Use saline spray only.
The full list is on the piercing aftercare page. If you see spreading redness, heat, fever or pus, see a doctor. Do not remove your jewelry until a medical professional says so.
Planning more than one piercing
Many people add piercings over time. Our curated ear guide can help you plan, and the ear piercing cost guide shows what you pay. On free piercing Wednesdays the piercing is free and you pay for the jewelry.
Ready to book? Use the booking page or walk in. Under 18? A parent or guardian must come with you and bring ID.
Questions
- Which cartilage piercings does BURDLIFE offer?
- We offer helix, flat, tragus, conch, rook and daith piercings, plus lobes. All are done with a needle.
- How much is a cartilage piercing?
- It is $30 per ear. Jewelry is priced separately.
- How long does a cartilage piercing take to heal?
- Keep your flatback in for 1 year before changing it. Everyone heals differently.
- What is a post swap?
- It changes your long starter post to a shorter one. Come in 6 to 8 weeks after your piercing if it is healing well. It costs $25 and takes a few minutes.
Ready when you are
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Studios: Houston, Nashville and San Antonio (open). Atlanta in Johns Creek (opening Nov 16).