Ear piercing types › Auricle
Auricle Piercing
Try a auricle piercing on the planner →
What is a auricle piercing?
An auricle piercing goes through the outer rim of the ear, between the helix and the lobe — roughly level with the ear canal. It's a great spot for a hoop that frames the side of the ear.
Does a auricle piercing hurt?
Usually 4–5 out of 10, similar to a helix.
Auricle piercing healing time and aftercare
About 6–12 months. Like the helix, it's prone to snagging on hair and pressure from sleeping, so a travel pillow helps.
Auricle piercing jewelry and size
A flat-back stud, 16g (1.2 mm), to start; a hoop after it's healed.
Typical starting gauge: 16g (1.2 mm). Common jewelry: Hoop, flat-back stud.
Who can get a auricle piercing?
Most ears have enough outer rim for an auricle piercing.
What to pair it with
An auricle hoop combined with a lobe stack and a helix stud creates a curated line of jewelry down the side of the ear. You can test combinations in the ear piercing planner and save the result to show your piercer.
Auricle piercing FAQ
Where is an auricle piercing?
On the outer rim of the ear, between the helix at the top and the lobe at the bottom.
Can I wear a hoop in an auricle piercing?
Yes, once it's healed. Start with a flat-back stud.
How long does an auricle piercing take to heal?
Usually 6–12 months.
Pain is a commonly reported range and varies by person. Healing times follow general guidance from the Association of Professional Piercers. This page is general information, not medical advice — always talk to a professional piercer.
Other ear piercings
Helix Forward Helix Flat Rook Daith Tragus Conch Snug Anti-Tragus Lobe Upper Lobe