Industrial Piercing is currently a trendy choice for body modification enthusiasts. However, this Piercing’s success depends a lot on your anatomy. Fortunately, even if your ear doesn’t quite suit the traditional version, alternative configurations exist to explore. Keep reading to discover why there are still options for you!
Usually, an industrial piercing is done with a single long piece of jewelry that connects a piercing on the upper rim of your ear (helix) to one on the front side (forward helix).This barbell is usually about 1 ½” long and has a 14-gauge thickness. It’s important to note that the piercing process for both holes is done simultaneously to avoid potential issues with correctly fitting jewellery. So, be prepared for not just one but two piercings.
The healing process for industrial piercings takes an average of 6 to 12 months; during this time, handling your ear with care is crucial. Avoid bumping it or letting it get entangled in things like hair or clothing, and maintain its cleanliness. Remember that sterile saline spray is the only recommended way to clean new piercings. Consider sleeping with your head on a neck pillow designed for travellers to ensure your Piercing doesn’t come into contact with any surfaces, helping to prevent irritation bumps.
In addition to the classic industrial Piercing, several other variations exist. One of these is vertical industrial Piercing, which offers a broader range of placement possibilities. Using this style of piercing, you can link different ear parts together. For instance, you can connect the upper rim (helix) with the inner shell (conch), the middle fold (rook) with the conch, or even pair up two conch piercings. Interestingly, the barbell ends are often positioned behind the ear, but given the flexibility in placement, you could also have them on the upper part of the ear.
The choices for jewellery are just as diverse and abundant as those available for traditional horizontal industrial Piercing. In fact, the vertical setup can highlight your jewellery’s beauty. For instance, industrial barbells with dangling chains can create a particularly stunning effect with this setup. Moreover, depending on the size of your ear, they can be more comfortable to wear, offering a unique and stylish twist to your ear piercings.
There are two less commonly seen variations in industrial piercings: floating and custom industrial.
Floating industrial Piercing
Floating industrial Piercing is a unique and distinctive variation of traditional industrial Piercing. Unlike the classic industrial, which connects the helix and forward helix, the floating industrial connects parts of the ear that are not typically joined in a single piercing. This creates an intriguing and unconventional look.
The key feature of the floating industrial is its ability to connect different areas of the ear that are not adjacent. It’s an excellent option for individuals whose ear anatomy doesn’t suit the classic industrial configuration. To achieve a successful floating industrial piercing, consulting with an experienced piercer is essential. They will assess your ear’s unique structure and determine the best placement for the Piercing.

One of the advantages of the floating industry is its versatility. Depending on your ear’s anatomy and style preferences, you can create a customised and eye-catching arrangement. Just like a floating bridge that connects different islands, a floating industrial piercing can join parts of your ear that aren’t typically connected. It can link the upper rim (helix) with the inner shell (conch), the middle fold (rook) with the conch, or even pair up two conch piercings. These are just some of the creative ways you can customize this type of piercing.
When considering a floating industrial piercing, remember that the choice of jewellery is just as diverse as other industrial variations. You can select from various barbell designs, colours, and materials to make your Piercing unique.
In conclusion, the floating industrial Piercing offers a captivating and unconventional way to adorn your ear, allowing you to connect different ear areas in a customized and stylish manner. If you want to make a statement with your piercings and your ear anatomy doesn’t align with the traditional industrial, the floating industrial is an excellent choice worth exploring.
Custom Industrial Piercing
On the other hand, custom industrial piercing represents a highly individualized and innovative approach to ear piercings. This unique form of body modification deviates from the standard, offering a tailored design that can connect multiple points on the ear, often three or even four, within a single piercing. To embark on this creative journey, the first step involves a thorough consultation with an experienced piercer. During this consultation, your piercer will assess the unique contours of your ear and work collaboratively with you to craft a piercing configuration that not only complements your ear’s anatomy but also aligns with your aesthetic preferences.
What truly sets the custom industrial apart is its adaptability, which allows for a high degree of personalization. This often extends to the jewellery used, as the unconventional design may require custom-made barbells to fit the Piercing’s distinctive configuration perfectly. As with any piercing, there will be a healing process, typically lasting several months, during which diligent aftercare is essential to minimize the risk of infection or complications. The custom industrial piercing is a remarkable canvas for self-expression, delivering a unique and captivating look that stands out in body piercings. However, given its intricacy, selecting a skilled and reputable piercer with expertise in this specialized Piercing is paramount to ensure safety and aesthetics are upheld throughout the process.

The industrial choice is an excellent exploration path if you’ve been contemplating a fresh ear piercing. It’s a timeless and enduring style that remains perpetually fashionable. Furthermore, it provides many jewellery possibilities, making it adaptable to any type. It exudes a remarkably relaxed and edgy vibe. And isn’t that one of the aspects we all adore about piercings – their ability to add a touch of unique flair and charm to our look?