
Tragus
Tragus, i.e. piercing the part of the ear (the small cartilage covering the entrance to the ear canal), has been one of the biggest hits in the world of piercing for years. Although it is very discreet, it perfectly complements any ear styling and looks extremely elegant with both a minimalist crystal and a matching ring.
When choosing this piercing, you must remember several important issues related to everyday functioning - especially when using headphones. W Piercing Planet we have prepared a complete guide to Tragus for you.
What is Tragus Piercing?
The tragus is a small, thick piece of cartilage located next to the face, directly above the opening of the ear canal.
The procedure involves piercing this cartilage through. Please note that anatomy plays a key role here. If your ear section is very tiny, flat or extremely thin, it may not be possible to perform this piercing safely. A professional piercer always begins the visit by assessing the structure of the ear.
Does a Tragus piercing hurt?
Because the tragus is quite thick cartilage, the pain is usually felt slightly stronger than with a classic earlobe and is rated at 4 to 5 on a 10-point scale.
What is most surprising about this piercing is not the pain itself, but... sound. Because the procedure is performed in the immediate vicinity of the entrance to the inner ear, when the needle pierces the cartilage you will hear a loud, characteristic "crunch". This is a completely normal phenomenon and you should not be afraid of it!
Tragus healing time and care
Thick cartilage means a long regeneration process. Due to its location, the tragus is also exposed to constant contact with the phone, hair and hands.
- The initial stage of healing (swelling goes down): 2 to 4 months.
- Complete healing of the canal: from 6 to 12 months.
How to care for a fresh piercing? (Principles of care)
- Don't touch: Avoid touching the earring with dirty hands and refrain from "spinning" it.
- Cleanse regularly: Wash the piercing site 2-3 times a day with sterile saline solution.
- Avoid chemicals: Avoid using hydrogen peroxide, alcohol or antibiotic ointment. They may irritate the wound and delay healing.
- 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!
What jewelry to wear with Tragus?
The proximity of the ear canal imposes very specific requirements on jewelry, especially its back part.
During healing:
The gold and only right standard is Surgical titanium labret (G23). Why Labret? It has a flat disc at the back that fits perfectly to the inside of the cartilage and does not block the entrance to the ear canal.
- Rod Thickness: Standard is 1.2mm.
- Starting Length: Typically 7 mm - 8 mm (takes into account cartilage swelling).
- Decoration size: Flat discs, balls or small crystals (approx. 2.5 mm - 3 mm) that are easy to care for work best.
Downsize: When the ear is no longer swollen (after about 4-6 weeks), you need to return to the studio to replace the rod with a shorter one (e.g. 5 mm - 6 mm). A long rod that "flies" in the ear while chewing food and talking will prevent proper healing!
Are you looking for the perfect labret? Our offer includes the highest quality G23 titanium jewelry, which will ensure safe healing and an amazing look. Choose tiny crystals, minimalist balls or flat caps that won't catch on your clothes.
Decorative jewelry for Tragus Piercing
Tragus Piercing - Questions and Stories
Does Tragus help with migraines?
Does Tragus help with migraines?
NO. As with the Daith piercing, there is a popular myth that the Tragus stimulates acupuncture points responsible for treating headaches and migraines. From a medical point of view, there is no evidence to support this action. The effect some people experience is purely a placebo effect. Piercings should be treated solely as body decoration.
When can I start wearing earphones after having my Tragus pierced?
When can I start wearing earphones after having my Tragus pierced?
You can start wearing headphones inserted into the ear canal (e.g. AirPods) only after complete healing and the so-called downsize (replacing the rod with a perfectly fitting, short labret). It usually takes 6 to 12 months. Inserting the headphones earlier may result in infection, mechanical irritation and the formation of painful granulation tissue.
When can I put a ring on my Tragus?
When can I put a ring on my Tragus?
You can opt for a clicker, seamless ring earring only after the piercing canal has fully healed (at least 6-12 months). The wheel moves much more than the labret, which prolongs the healing time in a fresh wound and leads to complications. After healing, the diameter of the ring must be precisely matched by the piercer to the anatomy of your ear.
I have a lump near my earring - what is it?
I have a lump near my earring - what is it?
A small "lump" is most often granulation tissue, which is caused by mechanical irritation (e.g. sleeping on the ear, getting caught in clothes) or a wrong angle of the piercing. Don't squeeze it! Consult your piercer and follow appropriate saline care.