Laura Ljaze
Body Piercing

The conch piercing goes through the back of the ear in the 'shell' area, named after its resemblance to the conch sea creature shell. It is a surface cartilage piercing and is non-invasive. Conch piercings can either be done either in the inner or outer section of the ear, and can be decorated with piercing jewellery such as barbells, labret or BCR.
Conch piercing takes its origins from other cultures, including the Mangebetu Tribe in Africa and a sect of Hindu Yogis from India. These tribes used conch piercings as decorative sites for ivory and religious symbolism. It is nowadays becoming a more popular choice of piercing, as it offers an alternative position of piercing on the ear where more various and interesting designs can be placed.

When it comes to piercing it is difficult to classify the amount of pain, as pain depends on the experience of each individual. The conch piercing is deemed quite painful as the cartilage shell of the ear is being pierced. However, different people experience varying levels of pain so there is no clear way of describing whether or not the piercing procedure will hurt. There may be some soreness after the procedure, although this is to be expected.  If you experience any severe pain during or after the procedure, you should seek medical attention to identify the cause, and the solution to, the pain.

It usually takes 3-9 months for a conch piercing to heal, although this again differs between every individual.  You should always avoid putting the fresh piercing under any stress or pressure. Your ear can sometimes get in the way while dress, doing exercise, or even sleeping, so it is important to be mindful of the piercing and how you can take precautions to avoid knocking it. This should also make you consider whether or not you want a piercing in the first place, as such a piercing can get in the way of day-to-day activities.  Also, you should not remove the new piece of jewellery during the healing process. The jewellery should be kept in at all times, or you could risk the piercing closing over. Removing a piercing from a dermal punch conch piercing is sometimes deemed to not have an effect, but it is also recommended to keep such piercings in during the entire healing process to reduce the risk of uneven healing.
Jewellery:  The position of the conch piercing allows for a variety of styles of jewellery, such as:
Labret Piercings: A straight bar that goes through the ear, each end can be decorated whether it be a jewelled or studded finish.
BCRs: loops and rings are a possible option as they can loop around the back of the ear to join with both sides of the piercing.
Curved, Straight or Circular Barbells: All possible choices that are available in a variety of styles and gauges to suit whatever look you are going for!

DISCLAIMER: Each body is unique and healing times vary considerably. If you have any questions, please contact your Piercer. These guidelines are based on a combination of vast professional experience, common sense, research and extensive clinical practice. This is not to be considered a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If you suspect an infection, seek medical attention. Be aware that many doctors have not received specific training regarding piercing