Conch Piercing FAQs, Answered – Placement, Healing Time & More

It’s also important not to skimp on jewellery quality. “Your conch piercing will never heal if it’s pierced with low-grade material,” Emma Whitethorn from Ouija Piercings in Derby, tells GLAMOUR. “Don’t be scared to ask what your piercer uses – implant-grade titanium is the best because it’s strong, light, and resistant to body fluids, meaning it’s biocompatible.”

Another reason titanium is a favourite is that it is hypoallergenic and doesn’t contain nickel, which some people can be sensitive to. Implant-grade stainless steel is considered safe, but Whitethorn points out that it is an alloy, so is likely to have some nickel in it.

Fine metals like gold and platinum are also a safe bet, but invest in solid gold rather than gold plating, which can flake off and cause infection.

The bottom line? Consult a professional to determine the best materials for your specific needs and preferences.

Are conch piercings painful?

During the piercing process, you may feel a sharp, intense but quick pinching sensation as the needle passes through the cartilage. Afterwards you may experience tenderness and swelling in the pierced area.

“People have different levels of pain tolerance and all ears are unique,” says Svetlana, but generally-speaking, they are considered to be moderately painful (and more painful than earlobe piercings) due to the thickness of the cartilage being pierced.

How long do conch piercings take to heal?

Conch piercings fall under the category of cartilage piercings, which will take longer to heal compared to the lobe.

Typically conch piercings can take anywhere between six to twelve months to fully heal. This timeframe varies from person to person and is dependent on other external factors like the piercing technique and the specific location of the piercing.

During the initial healing period (typically lasting four to eight weeks), it’s important to follow proper aftercare guidelines to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Aftercare and risks

These days, piercers use sterile, single-use needles rather than the traditional piercing guns. “Piercing guns can’t be cleaned, let alone sterilised,” warns Emma. “They cause trauma to the piercing site and can cause permanent scarring, especially when used for cartilage piercings such as the conch.”