Q: Can I use regular earrings in cartilage piercings? My friend is trying to tell me I can’t. Please tell me I can because I’m wearing them right now… - Sara

A: Okay, so your friend is totally right on this one! Please don’t put butterfly back earrings in your cartilage piercings. Those types of earrings are made for lobes, not cartilage, and they’re almost always the wrong gauge. If you wear them, your piercing hole can actually start to shrink, which means when you try to switch back to proper jewelry, it might not even fit anymore (and no one wants an emergency trip to the piercer).

Plus, some post earrings are made with mystery metals that can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Definitely not ideal for a healing or sensitive piercing. And those little butterfly backs? They’re kind of gross when used in cartilage. They trap moisture, sweat, and buildup, which makes them super hard to clean and can lead to build up, crusties or even infections.

If you want to keep your piercing happy and healthy, swap it out for jewelry that’s actually meant for cartilage. Go for a 16 gauge post or flat-back stud made from implant-grade titanium (ASTM F-136 if you want to be fancy about it). It’ll look better, feel better, and keep your piercing safe long-term. Trust your friend, they’re looking out for you on this one!

Q: What’s the difference between a flat piercing and a helix piercing?  - Mina P

A: So, the main difference between a helix and a flat piercing really comes down to where they sit on your ear! A helix piercing is done along that outer ridge of cartilage... the curve that runs from the top of your ear all the way down toward where it meets your lobe. A flat piercing, on the other hand, is placed just below that ridge in the smooth, flat area near the top of your ear (it’s called “flat” for a reason!).

Helix piercings are super versatile! You can wear hoops, studs, or cute chains connecting multiple piercings. Flat piercings, though, need straight jewelry only since they’re done on that even bit of cartilage. They’re both total classics, and you honestly can’t go wrong with either.

If you’re torn between the two, your best move is to visit a professional piercer who can check your anatomy and see what works best for your ear shape. Some people even rock both together for a super stylish ear stack moment. Whatever you choose, you’re going to look amazing! Happy piercing!

Disclaimer: Body Candy is only here to give you fun and helpful advice and information when it comes to getting pierced. Always consult a professional piercer to make sure a new piercing is right for you!