What are ear piercings and ear piercings and what different types are there? We have listed the most common ear holes and ear piercings for you.

Earholes

We'll start with the ear holes. These are the holes in your earlobe. Ear holes are not in your cartilage. And as long as this is not the case, jewelers do not need a permit for this. They do have hygiene guidelines. (on the picture these ear holes are called earlobe and upper earlobe)

Ear piercings

This is a whole different story. An ear piercing is in your cartilage and you can get it done at a piercing shop. There are a few exceptions. Some holes through your cartilage are done at a jeweler. For example, the lower helix and the helix. Your cartilage is literally "pierced" and this is why you call it a piercing. There are various types of ear piercings. Are you looking for a new piercing? Below are the most common types.

As you can see in the picture, there are many variations of ear piercings. You can think about which one suits you best. Always be well informed before you get an ear piercing. That way you won't be faced with any surprises.

Hints

  1. Think carefully about the time of piercing/ear piercing. By this I mean, when are you going to get an ear piercing / hole? Your ear can be sensitive and needs extra care the first few weeks after getting a piercing. It is therefore not advisable to get an ear piercing just before you go on a (summer) vacation. You may not be able to swim with it or you may be abroad with an inflamed / irritated ear.
  2. Between the ages of 16 and 18 you need parental consent.
  3. Make sure you have a pleasant feeling at the piercing shop. Even if the shop has good reviews, if it doesn't feel right, find another one.
  4. Aftercare is just as important as getting a piercing right. Trust me, you're really not the first to stop wearing his/her ear piercing/earring because it's inflamed. (that would be a waste)