Does Ear Piercing Hurt? Lobe vs Cartilage

Does ear piercing hurt?

For most people it is a quick pinch. The feeling is short, and it fades soon after. Everyone is different, so what feels mild to one person can feel sharper to another.

Lobe vs cartilage

People search for a cartilage piercing pain scale, but there is no exact number. A pain scale is personal. Your nerves, your mood and your sleep all play a part.

Does an upper lobe piercing hurt?

The upper lobe sits between the soft lobe and the firmer cartilage. Many people say it feels close to a regular lobe piercing. Others notice a bit more pressure. If you want to plan a few holes, see our second and third lobe piercing guide.

Tips to feel calmer

• Eat something before you come.
• Sleep well the night before.
• Breathe slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth.
• Tell your piercer if you feel nervous.
• Bring a friend if that helps.

How to plan your visit

1. Book or walk in Book online with a $15 deposit that goes toward your service, or walk in.
2. Bring a parent if you are under 18 A parent or guardian must come with you and bring ID.
3. Choose your jewelry Implant-grade titanium jewelry is used for piercing. Each piece is priced on its own.
4. Ask your questions Tell your piercer where you want the piercing and how you feel.
5. Start aftercare at home Clean twice a day, front and back, with saline spray only.

After the piercing

The area can feel tender for a short time. Clean twice a day with saline spray only and let it air dry. Do not twist the jewelry.

Read the full steps on the piercing aftercare page. See a doctor for spreading redness, heat, fever or pus.

Costs and ages

A piercing is $30 per ear and free on Wednesdays, with jewelry priced separately. See the ear piercing cost guide. Under 18 needs a parent or guardian with ID, covered in the age guide.

Ready to go? Book at our booking page in Houston, Nashville or San Antonio, or walk in. Atlanta (Johns Creek) is joining soon.