Vertical Helix Piercing -
Simple Guide to Pain,
Healing & Style

Piercings are a fun way to show off your personal style, and the vertical helix piercing is one of the most popular choices for people looking to do something unique with their ears.

Unlike the typical helix piercing, which follows the outer edge of the ear, the vertical helix piercing runs straight up along the cartilage. This gives it a clean and sleek appearance that stands out from the more traditional placements.

It’s perfect for anyone who wants a piercing that adds style without being too bold. Whether you're adding a new piercing to an already-styled ear or just want a subtle statement piece, the vertical helix will suit your look. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: what it is, how it's done, how much pain it might cause, and what to expect during the healing process.

A vertical helix piercing is a cartilage piercing placed vertically along the upper part of the ear, instead of following the natural curve like the traditional helix.

The jewelry is placed in a straight line up the ear’s cartilage, creating a modern and clean look.

This piercing creates an elegant, minimalistic effect that can complement many different jewelry styles. It's not too flashy but still manages to stand out. If you want something even more noticeable, you can go for a triple vertical helix piercing, where three piercings are stacked vertically in a clean, bold line. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to make a big statement with a piercing that’s still sleek and controlled.

There are several variations of the vertical helix piercing, depending on how many piercings you want to get and how you want them placed.

Here are a few options:

• Double vertical helix piercing: Two piercings placed closely together along the upper ear. This gives a nice, symmetrical look that’s a bit bolder than a single piercing.
  
  
• Triple vertical helix piercing: Three piercings stacked vertically. This creates a more dramatic look and adds a modern twist to the classic helix.
  
  
• Vertical triple helix piercing: This refers to three piercings stacked vertically, which gives the ear a strong, continuous line.
  
  

You can also combine the vertical helix piercing with other piercings, like a forward helix, tragus, or rook, to create a more intricate, curated ear look. Each variation gives a slightly different feel, from subtle and clean to bold and striking, depending on your style and preference.

The best part about the vertical helix piercing is how much fun you can have with the jewelry.

This piercing gives you the chance to really experiment with different designs and create a look that suits your personal taste. Here are a few jewelry options to consider:

• Small studs: A simple, tiny stud can be enough for a minimalist, sleek look. It’s a great way to keep things clean and understated.
  
  
• Tiny hoops: A small hoop can create a subtle circular design that complements the straight vertical line of the piercing.
  
  
• Gemstones: Adding a small gemstone can bring a touch of sparkle to your piercing, making it look even more elegant.
  
  
• Mixed metals: Combining different metals, like silver, gold, and titanium, adds a modern, stylish twist to the piercing.
  
  
• Fun designs: Geometric shapes, stars, moons, or abstract designs can add some creativity to the piercing, making it truly unique.
  
  

For those going for a triple vertical helix piercing, consider using gemstones that gradually get bigger as they move up the ear, creating a cascading effect. If you prefer a cleaner, simpler look, matching studs or hoops will keep the piercing looking neat and stylish.

When considering any cartilage piercing, pain is a big factor for most people.

With the vertical helix piercing, the pain is usually described as moderate. It’s sharp but brief, and most people say it feels like a quick pinch. Since the piercing is done through cartilage, it’s slightly more painful than a lobe piercing but not as intense as some deeper piercings, like the daith or conch.

If you’re getting a double vertical helix piercing or triple vertical helix piercing, the pain may feel a bit stronger because you’re getting more than one piercing at once. However, it’s still quick, and the pain tends to fade almost immediately. Most people rate the pain as a 4-6 out of 10, and it usually goes away within minutes.

The vertical helix piercing healing time is usually around 6-9 months, although it can take longer for some people.

If you get multiple piercings, like a double vertical helix piercing, the healing time might be a little longer.

Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure your piercing heals properly. Here are some important tips for taking care of your vertical helix piercing:

• Clean it twice a day with a saline solution or piercing-specific cleaner.
  
  
• Don’t twist or turn the jewelry. Twisting the jewelry can irritate the piercing and slow down the healing process.
  
  
• Avoid sleeping on the pierced side to reduce pressure and prevent discomfort.
  
  
• Use clean pillows and bedding. Make sure you avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands.
  
  
• Check in with your piercer if anything feels wrong or if you experience excessive swelling.
  
  

Taking good care of your piercing will make healing faster and smoother.

The vertical helix piercing price can vary depending on where you go and the type of jewelry you choose.

Typically, a single vertical helix piercing costs the same as a regular helix piercing. But if you choose a double vertical helix piercing or triple vertical helix piercing, the cost will likely be higher because of the additional piercings and jewelry.

If you want higher-quality jewelry, like titanium or gold, it will cost more. However, these materials can help prevent irritation and promote smoother healing. Always make sure to go to a reputable studio with experienced piercers to get the best results.

The vertical helix piercing is a great option for both men and women.

For women, it’s common to choose small gemstone studs or delicate hoops, while men may prefer simple, matte studs or black titanium jewelry.

This piercing works for anyone, and it’s completely customizable to your style. Whether you want a double vertical helix piercing for a clean look or a triple vertical helix piercing for something bolder, the vertical helix can fit into your overall ear design and personal taste.

The vertical helix piercing is a sleek and stylish way to decorate your ear.

Whether you opt for a single piercing or a triple vertical helix piercing, it’s a simple yet eye-catching addition to your look. Healing takes time, but with proper care, your piercing will heal beautifully and become a permanent part of your ear design.

If you’re ready to get your vertical helix piercing, visit VEAN TATTOO, where our professional piercers ensure a safe and precise piercing, along with expert aftercare advice.