One of the hottest piercings around is the industrial piercing! A very anatomy-dependent piercing, it comes in multiple configurations so if your ear is not ideal for the classic version it doesn’t mean you’re out of luck!

A standard industrial piercing is a single barbell that connects a helix piercing and a forward helix piercing. The barbell is generally 1 ½” in length and 14 gauge. The actual piercing is done all at once because if done separately, there is a chance of jewelry migration that would prevent the barbell from fitting properly. So instead of a single hole being pierced, be prepared to get two! They take an average of 2 to 3 months to heal and during that time you must be careful to avoid knocking it or getting it tangled in things like hair or clothes – as well as keeping it clean! A clean piercing is a happy piercing!

Aside from the standard industrial, there are a few other types. There’s also the vertical industrial, which offers far more options for placement. They can connect helix and conch, the rook and conch, or even two conch piercings. The barbell ends are frequently located behind the ear, but with so many placement options you could still have the barbell ends on the top area of the ear. The jewelry options are as many and as varied as the standard horizontal version. In fact, the vertical setup can really showcase the charm on your jewelry. Chain dangle industrial barbells can look especially impressive with this particular setup!

Two of the less common variations include the floating industrial and the custom industrial. A floating industrial connects parts of the ear other than the helix and forward helix. This is a great option for people who don’t have the anatomy for a standard industrial but requires that you meet with your piercer to figure out what will work for your specific ear. The custom industrial can connect multiple points of the ear, three or even four in one piercing! But like the name says, this requires a consultation with your piercer and will almost certainly require custom jewelry.

If none of the above options appeal to you or suit your anatomy – or if you just want something a bit different – there’s the orbital piercing! An orbital piercing is the same concept as the industrial, In that it connects two piercings with one piece of jewelry. The difference is that while an industrial uses a straight barbell, an orbital is two piercings connected with a ring. An orbital in the upper helix can be truly striking looking, especially with some stylish jewelry in it.

If you’ve been thinking about getting a new ear piercing, the industrial is a great way to go. A classic look that will never go out of style, as well as one that offers an endless number of jewelry options, the industrial has something to offer every look and every anatomy. And whether you need something basic for every day or a festive look for a special occasion, Body Candy has your jewelry needs covered!