Orbital Piercing! There’s something unique about those little barbell rings that sit around the ears. No wonder ladies are hopping on the trend. I, for one, like the many options the ear offers when it comes to piercing, but this particular one is more interesting.
Over time, this delicious look has gained prominence for the gorgeous and edgy vibe it offers. But people aren’t rocking it just because it’s iconic. Some do so out of curiosity while others opt for it to because they love the location (your ears) or they just want to achieve that edgy look.
Whether you want this piercing because of its location or you really adore it, this piece will show you all you need to know about it.
What is Orbital Piercing?
When you pierce two holes into each of your ears and join them with a hoop, that’s an orbital piercing. The earlobe is where you see it the most. But it can also be higher up in the center of your outer ear.
This piercing resembles an industrial piercing which joins two holes in your upper cartilage with a bar. But due to the softer and quicker healing tissue, many people prefer to wear an orbital piercing on the lower lobe.
Origin of Orbital Piercing
Orbital piercing is a type of ear piercing that dates back to 5000 years ago. And since ear piercing is popular in many cultures, women, from time immemorial, have longed practiced it. It was ( and still is) a dominant fashion accessory that enhances beauty. Over the years, these ear piercings have evolved into different styles including the orbital piercing both men and women wear as a fashion statement.
How Painful Is an Orbital Piercing?
Because they mostly happen on the lower lobe, orbital piercings are among the less painful piercings.
How Long Does it Take to Heal?
The healing process for your orbital piercing depends on where you got the piercing. For instance, if you work with a skilled piercer, the healing will be faster. However, this piercing takes between six to nine months if you place it in the cartilage. But if it develops in the lobe, it’ll take at least six weeks to heal.
In general, some people have a tougher time healing with rings, and repairing any type of piercing with two entrances and exits is also difficult.
Jewelry Options for Orbital Piercings
Your only jewelry alternatives are rings because an orbital piercing entails two piercings joined by a ring. This does not, however, imply that you lack choice.
A captive bead ring or a circular barbell is a great option. And this is because if you choose a clicker or seamless ring, the opening or gap in the jewelry for insertion and removal will accidentally fall into one of the piercing holes and close around it. But you can wear any kind of ring jewelry you choose once your piercing has fully healed.
One thing to keep in mind is that the orbital piercing would take longer to heal if you do it with a ring. So, consider getting this piercing with two separate labrets and switching to the hoop ring once you’ve fully healed.
Proper Aftercare for an Orbital Piercing
For your orbital piercing to recover completely without complications. Let these guide you:
Do’s:
- To help get rid of the “crusties,” or crusted-on lymphatic drainage, clean the piercing every day with warm water and unscented antibacterial soap. If you notice a white liquid leaking from your piercing, do not panic. Your piercing is not infected. Instead, use a fresh paper towel to pat the piercing dry. The piercing can catch or snag if you use a standard towel or cotton swab.
- Apply a saline solution spray two to three times a day on your piercing.
- Do not rest your head on the piercing while sleeping. You can put your ear in the center of a donut cushion or an airline pillow, which will prevent you from lying directly on the fresh piercing.
- Always wash your hands before you touch your piercing.
- If the piercing is located where headphones will rest or touch it, avoid wearing them or applying pressure to it.
Don’ts:
- Swim in public water sources such as pools, lakes, oceans, hot tubs, and Jacuzzis to avoid introducing bacteria that could infect your healing piercing.
- Touch your piercing only if you are cleaning it and your hands are properly sterilized
- Try to replace the jewelry too soon. Instead, wait until the piercing has totally healed before replacing the original jewelry.
- Use something other than a saline solution spray or unscented antibacterial soap to clean your piercing. The healing piercing will get irritated if you use harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, or bactine.
Orbital Piercing is a Stylish Trend
Just like how face piercings, double nose piercings, and even frog eye piercings have become a staple in the beauty industry, orbital piercing is one stylish trend that has come to stay.
The trend stands as a captivating example of how body modification has evolved into a dynamic means of personal expression and artistry. Through careful planning, precise execution, and an eye for aesthetics, you can transform your ear cartilage into a canvas for showcasing your unique style and individuality. As this trend continues to captivate the minds of piercing enthusiasts, the orbital piercing remains a symbol of creativity in the world of fashion.
Considering going for it? Great. Choose from any of these photos and replicate when it’s time to get your piercing.
