Ear piercing types › Tragus
Tragus Piercing
Try a tragus piercing on the planner →
What is a tragus piercing?
A tragus piercing goes through the small flap of cartilage that partly covers the ear canal, right next to your cheek. It's a small spot, perfect for a single sparkly stud that catches the light when you turn your head.
Does a tragus piercing hurt?
Usually 4–5 out of 10. The tragus is a thick piece of cartilage, so you may feel a lot of pressure and hear a pop, but it's over quickly.
Tragus piercing healing time and aftercare
Around 6–12 months. The main thing to watch is earbuds and phone calls — both press on the tragus. Use the other ear for calls and avoid in-ear headphones on that side while it heals.
Tragus piercing jewelry and size
A flat-back labret stud, usually 16g (1.2 mm). A flat back is important so the end inside the ear doesn't press. Once healed, small hoops and huggies are also popular.
Typical starting gauge: 16g (1.2 mm). Common jewelry: Flat-back labret.
Who can get a tragus piercing?
You need a tragus big enough to hold a stud. If yours is very small, an anti-tragus or forward helix may be a better option.
What to pair it with
A tragus pairs beautifully with a daith or conch, or with a forward helix to create a cluster near the face. You can test combinations in the ear piercing planner and save the result to show your piercer.
Tragus piercing FAQ
Does a tragus piercing hurt?
Most people rate it around 4–5 out of 10. The pressure is more noticeable than the pain.
Can I wear earbuds after a tragus piercing?
Avoid in-ear headphones on that side until the piercing has healed, which can take 6–12 months.
What jewelry is best for a tragus?
A flat-back labret stud, usually 16g. Small hoops can be worn after healing.
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 Conch Snug Anti-Tragus Auricle Lobe Upper Lobe