What to Know Before Getting a Tragus Piercing

You’re in good company.

Piercing the small bit of cartilage located just before the ear canal has grown in popularity, especially after suggestions that certain ear cartilage piercings might help with migraine symptoms.

Before you rush off to the piercing parlor, here are answers to common questions about tragus piercings.

Are there real health advantages?

Possibly.

The limited evidence available — mostly anecdotal — revolves around daith piercings rather than tragus piercings as a potential migraine remedy.

The idea is that ear cartilage piercings may work similarly to acupuncture by activating pressure points and nerve endings. In this scenario, the target would be the vagus nerve, which runs from the brainstem through much of the body.

Vagus nerve stimulation has demonstrated benefits for conditions such as epilepsy and depression, but research into whether piercings can stimulate the vagus nerve in a helpful way is still ongoing.

What does the procedure involve?

Techniques differ a bit between piercers. Some approach from the outside in, others from the inside out. Regardless, tragus piercings should be performed using a sterile needle.

Typically, your piercer will:

1. Sanitize the area with a medical-grade disinfectant.
2. Mark the precise spot with a nontoxic marker.
3. Some professionals insert a cork or protective barrier into the ear canal to shield it from the needle.
4. Push the needle through the tragus to the opposite side.
5. Place the chosen jewelry into the new piercing.
6. Apply gentle pressure to control any bleeding.
7. Clean the site once more.

How much pain is involved?

Many people say it hurts, but typically only briefly. Cartilage piercings are generally more painful than softer areas like the earlobe, but pain perception varies.

The needle’s sting is so fast that a deep breath during the piercing can make it over before you finish exhaling.

Because the needle is so close to the ear canal, you’ll hear and feel everything, which some find unsettling. If it helps reduce tension, use an earplug provided it doesn’t obstruct the piercer. Tensing up can amplify discomfort.

Also note that being intoxicated, hungover, exhausted, stressed, or hungry can intensify the pain.

Make sure you’re rested, have eaten, and aren’t dealing with a hangover.

What will it cost?

A tragus piercing usually ranges from $25 to $50.

The exact price depends on factors such as:

• the piercer’s experience
• the studio’s location and popularity
• the jewelry chosen

When planning your budget, include extras like aftercare supplies and a gratuity for the piercer.

Ask whether the jewelry is part of the fee, since certain metals and styles can be pricier.

Which metal is best?

You have several choices for the initial jewelry, and many more once the piercing has healed.

Most piercers opt for surgical stainless steel because it’s safe for most clients and affordable.

Recommended options for initial piercings include:

• Surgical stainless steel. Medical-grade stainless used for implants. It contains some nickel, but releases it at a low rate, making it safe for most people. If you have a severe nickel allergy, avoid it.
• Titanium. Another implant-grade metal that is fully hypoallergenic. It costs more, but is the go-to if you have a strong nickel sensitivity.
• Solid 14-karat (or higher) gold. If you prefer yellow, rose, or white gold and don’t mind a higher price, solid gold is a safe pick. Avoid gold-plated pieces that can flake and reveal base alloys like nickel.
• Niobium. An elemental metal similar to titanium in tolerability and safe for most people. It isn’t commonly classified as implant-grade but is still a good, often less expensive, option.

What type of jewelry is best?

After healing, you’ll have many style choices. Until then, you should keep the initial jewelry in place.

Your piercer will advise on the ideal starting piece. Common starter options are barbells, studs, and hoops:

• Barbells are simple to insert and remove (though that won’t be crucial immediately after piercing).
• Studs may help reduce scarring risk.
• Rings are a discreet, straightforward choice.

Ultimately, the jewelry type is a matter of personal taste.

What risks should I be aware of?

Some tenderness and swelling are normal in the first few days, along with watery discharge and crusting.

More serious issues can occur, but choosing a skilled piercer greatly lowers these chances.

Main things to watch for include:

• Infection. A piercing is an open wound that can let bacteria in, leading to redness, pain, swelling, and persistent bleeding. It can also produce dark, foul pus and cause fever.
• Bloodborne infections. A contaminated needle can transmit hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV. Always insist on a sterilized, disposable needle.
• Bumps. Keloids, pustules, and granulomas can develop with cartilage piercings. Allergic reactions can also cause itchy bumps or rashes.
• Allergic reaction. Metal allergies, particularly to nickel, are common. Symptoms include itching, redness, and blisters.
• Rejection. Occasionally the body views jewelry as foreign and pushes it out. You might notice the hole widening or skin flaking or thickening around it.
• Catching or tearing. It’s possible to snag your piercing on clothing or accessories, which can tear the tissue.

How should I care for it afterward?

Your piercer will provide aftercare instructions to promote healing and reduce complication risks.

General care for a tragus piercing includes:

• Rinse the area two to three times daily with a saline solution you buy or prepare yourself.
• Avoid touching the piercing to prevent introducing bacteria.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before cleaning or touching the site.
• Remove crust or discharge with warm water and mild soap.
• Don’t use harsh agents like alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or perfumed products.
• Try to avoid earbuds or headphones until it’s healed, or at least for the first month or two.
• Be cautious not to snag the jewelry on sweaters, scarves, or hats.

How long does healing take?

Tragus piercings typically take about 3 to 6 months to heal, but healing can stretch much longer — up to a year — depending on care and any complications.

Things like underlying health issues, certain medications, and habits such as smoking can influence recovery time.

When can I swap the jewelry?

It’s best to keep the original jewelry until the piercing is completely healed.

You might be able to change it sooner if:

• the piercing no longer feels tender
• the minimum healing period recommended by your piercer has passed
• there’s no more weeping, discharge, or crusting

If you must change jewelry before it’s healed, have a professional do it.

How do I recognize a problem?

Symptoms that persist or worsen generally signal an issue.

Watch for:

• intense pain
• ongoing or increasing redness or inflammation
• swelling lasting beyond 48 hours
• thick, foul-smelling discharge or pus
• excessive bleeding
• warmth around the piercing
• a lump at the site
• fever
• skin thickening or flaking around the area

If you’re unsure, contact your piercer for guidance, but consult a healthcare professional about any of the above signs.

What if I decide I don’t like it?

That depends on how certain you are and whether you’re prepared to remove it permanently.

If you’re undecided, consider keeping the jewelry in until healing completes. You can switch to a style that suits you better.

If you want it out before it heals, either you or your piercer can remove it, but you’ll need to continue aftercare until the wound is fully healed.

Within a few weeks, skin typically grows back over the hole.

The takeaway

There’s little solid evidence supporting health benefits from tragus piercings, but they remain a stylish choice if you like the look. Choose a reputable piercer and follow proper aftercare to keep the piercing healthy and attractive.