How painful is a conch piercing?

Most people rate the pain of a conch piercing between a 5 and a 6 on a scale of 1 to 10. Because the conch area is thick ear cartilage, you will feel more pressure than a lobe piercing. The sharp sensation lasts only a few seconds during the needle pass.

How long does a conch piercing take to heal?

A conch piercing typically takes six to twelve months to heal fully. The thick cartilage in this area requires a longer healing period than lobe or nostril piercings. Do not change jewelry until the piercing is fully healed.

What is the difference between an inner conch and an outer conch?

The inner conch piercing goes through the center bowl of the ear, close to the ear canal. It works best with a flat back labret stud. The outer conch is placed higher on the cartilage ridge near the helix.

What jewelry should I start with for a conch piercing?

The best starter jewelry for a conch piercing is a flat back labret stud made of ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium or nickel-free 14k gold.

Can I wear earbuds with a conch piercing?

You can wear earbuds with an inner conch piercing, but it may feel slightly uncomfortable during the initial healing weeks.

Conch Piercing Guide: Pain, Healing, and Jewelry Tips

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Flat vector illustration of a human ear anatomy with a conch piercing stud

July 9, 2026

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