Ever seen a straight barbell piercing that connects the upper cartilage of the ear in two distinct places and wondered what it was? That striking modification is known as an industrial piercing, sometimes called a scaffold piercing. It's a bold statement of personal style, but understanding the intricacies of this piercing type is crucial before taking the plunge. From the anatomy requirements to the commitment of aftercare, making an informed decision will significantly impact the piercing's healing process and overall aesthetic.
The industrial piercing isn't just a "one size fits all" procedure. It requires specific ear anatomy and precise placement to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. Furthermore, because it involves piercing through thick cartilage, the healing process can be longer and more involved than other ear piercings. Knowing what to expect and how to properly care for your new industrial is paramount to achieving a healthy and stylish result. That's why it is important to do research before committing to this piercing.
Want to know more about industrial piercings?
What is the standard jewelry gauge for an industrial piercing?
The standard jewelry gauge for an industrial piercing is 14 gauge (1.6mm). This refers to the thickness of the barbell used in the piercing.
While 14 gauge is the most common and recommended size, it's important to understand why. Using a thinner gauge, such as 16 gauge, can increase the risk of the piercing migrating or being rejected by the body. A thicker gauge might cause undue stress during the initial healing phase, potentially leading to discomfort or even scarring. The 14 gauge barbell provides a balance of stability and comfort, allowing for proper healing and minimizing the likelihood of complications. Occasionally, a piercer might use a slightly larger gauge, like 12 gauge, for individuals with thicker cartilage or a preference for larger jewelry. However, this is less common and should only be done by an experienced piercer who can assess the individual's anatomy and determine if it's appropriate. Ultimately, consulting with a reputable and qualified piercer is crucial to determine the best gauge for your specific industrial piercing. They can assess your ear anatomy and advise on the most suitable size for optimal healing and long-term comfort.How long does an industrial piercing typically take to heal?
An industrial piercing, which connects two piercings in the upper ear with a single barbell, typically takes between 4 to 12 months to fully heal. However, healing times can vary significantly depending on individual factors, aftercare practices, and the body's natural healing rate.
Healing an industrial piercing is a lengthy process due to its nature as two separate piercing sites connected by one piece of jewelry. This means that your body is essentially healing two wounds simultaneously, and any movement or pressure on the barbell can irritate both sites, delaying healing. Proper aftercare is crucial during this extended healing period. This includes regular cleaning with a sterile saline solution, avoiding touching or rotating the jewelry, and being mindful of potential snags on clothing or hair. Several factors can influence the healing time of an industrial piercing. Individuals with strong immune systems tend to heal faster. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, can impede healing. Furthermore, choosing an experienced piercer who properly aligns the piercings and uses high-quality jewelry can significantly reduce the risk of complications and promote faster healing. If complications arise, such as infection or excessive irritation, the healing time can be prolonged, and professional help from a piercer or medical professional may be necessary.What are the risks of getting an industrial piercing?
Industrial piercings, while visually striking, carry several risks including infection, rejection, keloid formation, cartilage damage, improper healing, and nerve damage. Because this piercing involves two separate punctures connected by a single piece of jewelry, the healing process is more complex and prone to complications compared to single-point piercings.
The most common risk is infection. Any break in the skin can allow bacteria to enter, leading to localized or, in rare cases, systemic infections. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, pus discharge, and fever. Proper aftercare, including regular cleaning with a saline solution, is crucial to minimize this risk. Rejection occurs when the body identifies the jewelry as a foreign object and attempts to push it out, leading to migration and eventual expulsion of the bar. Keloids, raised scars formed from excessive collagen production, can develop around the piercing sites, especially in individuals with a predisposition to keloid scarring. Furthermore, the piercing process itself can damage the cartilage of the ear if not performed correctly. Incorrect placement or improper technique can result in permanent disfigurement. Nerve damage, though less common, is a potential risk, leading to numbness or tingling in the ear. Finally, the industrial piercing has a longer healing time (4-12 months) than other piercings, increasing the window of opportunity for complications to arise if aftercare isn’t meticulously followed.Does the industrial piercing have different placement options?
Yes, while the traditional industrial piercing connects the helix and anti-helix (forward helix) with a single barbell, there are several variations that alter the placement and/or use multiple piercings. These alternative placements allow for customization based on ear anatomy and aesthetic preferences.
While the standard industrial piercing is quite specific in its connection of two points on the upper ear rim, variations exist to accommodate different ear shapes and desired looks. These variations often involve adjusting the angles of the piercings or using separate pieces of jewelry to create an "industrial" look. For example, some individuals opt for a vertical industrial, which runs vertically through the helix, or a modified industrial that uses a chain or decorative element instead of a rigid barbell. Furthermore, individuals whose ear anatomy doesn't readily support a standard industrial piercing might consider alternative solutions that mimic the look without compromising the health of the piercing. These can include two separate helix piercings linked by a chain after healing, or a custom placement designed by a skilled piercer who can assess the unique contours of the ear. Ultimately, consultation with a qualified piercer is crucial to determine the most suitable and safe industrial piercing option.Can you get an industrial piercing if you have small ears?
Generally, having small ears can make getting an industrial piercing more challenging, but it's not always impossible. The suitability depends less on the overall size of the ear and more on the specific anatomy and the distance between the helix and anti-helix.
An industrial piercing, also known as a scaffold piercing, connects two piercings on the upper ear with a single straight barbell. These piercings are typically located on the helix (the outer upper rim of the ear) and the anti-helix (the ridge of cartilage inside the helix). For a successful and comfortable industrial piercing, there needs to be a sufficient and relatively flat stretch of cartilage on both the helix and anti-helix. If the ear is too small, or the cartilage curves too dramatically, the barbell may put excessive pressure on the ear, leading to pain, irritation, and potential healing problems or even rejection. This pressure can also cause the jewelry to rub against the flat of the ear, which should be avoided.
The best way to determine if an industrial piercing is suitable for your ear anatomy is to consult with a reputable and experienced piercer. They will assess your ear's shape, size, and the prominence of the cartilage ridges. They can then advise you on whether a traditional industrial is feasible or if alternative piercing options, such as a custom industrial or other creative piercings, might be better suited to your ear structure.
What aftercare is required for an industrial piercing?
Proper aftercare for an industrial piercing is crucial for preventing infection and promoting healing, and primarily involves cleaning the piercing twice daily with a sterile saline solution. This cleaning should be gentle, avoiding harsh soaps or rubbing alcohol, and should be supplemented by avoiding unnecessary touching or movement of the jewelry, minimizing pressure or trauma to the area, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support the body's natural healing processes.
Industrial piercings, due to their nature as two piercings connected by a single barbell, are particularly susceptible to complications if not properly cared for. The long channel created by the piercing takes significantly longer to heal than a standard earlobe piercing, often ranging from 4 to 12 months, and is more prone to irritation and infection. Therefore, diligence in following the recommended aftercare routine is paramount. Beyond cleaning, it's important to monitor the piercing for signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, pus, or pain. If any of these symptoms appear, consult with a professional piercer or healthcare provider. Avoid sleeping on the piercing, as this can cause irritation and prolong the healing process. Using a travel pillow or sleeping on the opposite side can help prevent this. Furthermore, be patient and consistent with your aftercare routine. Remember that healing times vary, and consistent care is the key to a healthy and beautiful piercing.How much does an industrial piercing usually cost?
An industrial piercing typically costs between $30 and $70 in the United States. This price range reflects the complexity of the piercing, the experience and reputation of the piercer, the quality of the jewelry used, and the geographical location of the studio.
The cost of an industrial piercing is influenced by several factors. More experienced and reputable piercers often charge more due to their expertise and the lower risk of complications. The initial jewelry included in the price also plays a significant role; higher quality materials like surgical steel, titanium, or gold will naturally increase the overall cost. Furthermore, studios in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living tend to have higher prices for piercing services. It's important to remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best. Choosing a reputable piercer with proper sterilization techniques and high-quality jewelry is crucial for a safe and successful piercing experience. Don't hesitate to inquire about the piercer's qualifications, sterilization procedures, and the materials used for the jewelry before committing to the piercing. This can also give you a better understanding of why a studio charges a particular price.So, there you have it – the lowdown on industrial piercings! Hopefully, this has given you a good understanding of what they are and what's involved. Thanks for reading, and we hope you'll come back soon for more piercing insights and inspiration!