Changing a piercing can be super exciting but it can also be overwhelming with so many options to choose from. Use this post as a guide to choosing the helix piercing that is right for you! 

Sizing (Gauge, Length & Diameter) 

 What gauge should I choose for my helix piercing? 

It’s super important to know what item you are looking for when replacing any piercing. For the helix, the first step is to figure out what gauge you were pierced with. For reference, gauge refers to the thickness of the piercing. 

• Typically if you are pierced with a needle, the piercing will be 16 gauge.

• If you were pierced with a gun it may actually be thinner and be closer to 18 or 20 gauge.

You can always reach out to your piercer to determine the gauge you were pierced with. 

What are my options depending on the gauge I am pierced with?

16ga: Internally threaded labrets, threadless labrets, ball back studs, captive bead rings, horseshoes and hinged hoops. 

18ga: Internally threaded labrets, threadless labrets, ball back studs, captive bead rings, horseshoes and hinged hoops. 

20ga: Threadless labrets, 20ga hoops (typically worn in the nose) either hinged or bendable and standard butterfly back earrings.

Do I want to wear a hoop or a stud? 

Once you've got the gauge all figured out. The next thing you want to do is decide whether you want to wear a stud or a hoop. 

If you decided on a stud, this part is for you :)

Now that you have decided that you want to wear a stud, you will have to choose the type of stud you would like to wear from the list above. Once you've decided, you can click the link provided for the stud you choose. For example, if you decided on a threadless labret you can click the link provided and proceed to choosing the appropriate size. 

  

How will I know what length to choose? 

It is important to know what length you are currently wearing. Again, you can contact your piercer to find out this information. For reference, 8mm is the average length that customers purchase, just keep in mind that everybody's ears are different and you may need a shorter or longer length depending on the size of your ear and how healed the piercing is. 

What about gem/ball size? 

The size of the gem or the ball you choose really depends on the look you are going for. For reference, 2mm would be considered dainty, 3mm would be considered bigger than average and 4mm would be quite large. 

If you decided on a hoop, this part is for you :)

Now that you have decided that you want to wear a hoop, you will have to choose the type of hoop you would like to wear from the list above. Once you've decided, you can click the link and then choose the diameter (size inside of the hoop) that is right for you! :)

What diameter should I choose?

When selecting the diameter of a hoop, be sure to figure out what you are currently wearing so that you can decide whether it is a good fit or if you need something smaller or larger. When choosing a diameter, make sure to consider how far away your piercing is from the edge of your ear to make sure that you give the hoop enough space to sit comfortably. 8mm (most popular) & 10mm are the most commonly purchased helix hoops for reference. 

Materials

Another thing to consider when choosing your helix piercing is the material of the jewelry that you will be purchasing. If you have sensitivities Grade 23 Titanium  is the best option as it is nickel free, making it hypoallergenic, and super lightweight. It is ideal for every day wear. Another great option is 316L Surgical Steel as it is also hypoallergenic for most. Just be mindful of plating and items that contain brass, all of which can be found in the product descriptions. We also have a number of 14K Gold options. For a more in depth description of our materials click here.