This piercing technically belongs to the "Helix" family, but it is performed on the part of the labrum of the ear that connects directly to the head. The space in this place can be very tight, so the piercer's assessment of the anatomy is crucial.

A very popular form of this piercing is Triple Forward Helix - placing three small earrings (often of gradually decreasing size) one above the other, creating a beautiful, shiny line along the edge of the ear.

Piercing the anterior cartilage produces similar sensations to the classic Helix. They are usually rated at 4 to 5 on a 10-point pain scale.

However, the biggest challenge for the piercer (and a minor discomfort for the client) is the very limited access to this place. The piercer must precisely operate the needle right next to the face, avoiding damage to adjacent tissues. The treatment itself takes literally a second, after which you may feel warmth and pulsation in the temple area.

Cartilage heals slowly, and the location of the Forward Helix right next to the hairline and face poses several additional care challenges.

• Initial stage of healing: 2 to 4 months.
• Complete healing of the canal: from 6 to 12 months.

1. Don't touch: Avoid touching the earring with dirty hands and refrain from "spinning" it.
2. Cleanse regularly: Wash the piercing site 2-3 times a day with sterile saline solution.
3. Avoid chemicals: Avoid using hydrogen peroxide, alcohol or antibiotic ointment. They may irritate the wound and delay healing.
4. Be careful with your hair and clothes: Make sure that shampoo or conditioner does not remain on the ear after bathing. Be careful when putting on sweaters!

The anatomy in this place requires the use of very specific, small jewelry so that the back of the earring does not dig into the adjacent structures of the ear.

Jewelry for a fresh piercing:

The only right choice is short Labret made of G23 titanium. At the back, it has a flat disc that fits in a tight gap behind the front cartilage.

• Rod Thickness: Most often 1.2 mm (or 1.0 mm for a very small amount of tissue).
• Starting Length: Usually 7mm - 8mm. The reserve is necessary because the cartilage in this place can swell significantly.
• Decoration size: Microscopic nuts (2 mm - 2.5 mm) work best. Too large a front at the beginning will make maintenance difficult and will catch on the hair.

Downsize (rod replacement): In the case of Forward Helix it is absolutely critical! When the swelling goes down (after about 4-6 weeks), you need to replace the rod with a perfectly fitting one (e.g. 5 mm or 6 mm). An earring that is too long in this place will change the angle very quickly.