![[feature]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTlOTUQDsfdPIWEzJ68HR9Wbr2WieoCJ5eqCTNAHEN2Cmm0G98-h7cjU1ABrD4FRgMIqEooBCpJxIFix9HwX1mDJkJZWt0B-MvsH3bqKSDOTiqdinT_ev85-JhYd-g-baF30eKRkrL14A/s1600/types_of_ear_piercings_ear_piercings_history2.jpg)
Think of your ear as an empty canvas: With the help of the right piercer,
it's a work of art waiting to be created. However, there are some
things you should know before you're needle-ready. First, always work
with a reputable piercer who makes you feel comfortable and uses
hygienic techniques. "All items should be pre-sterilized and opened in
front of you," says TJ Cantwell, the owner of New-York-City-based Studio 28 Tattoos and Body Piercing.
Surgical-grade titanium or gold are the best metals to put in your
body, as they run the lowest risk of infection. Your piercer will go
over the aftercare routine they recommend, but you'll need a saline
spray to cleanse your piercing as it heals. Avoid sleeping on your newly
pierced ears, and wash your sheets and pillowcases regularly.
With those basics out of the way, let's talk inspiration. Read on to
learn the names of popular ear piercings and what to expect of each,
with insight from piercer Cassi Lopez of New York Adorned and photos courtesy of Maria Tash.
The ear is full of piercing options.

Helix and Conch

Forward Helix

Lobe piercings can mean so much more than the studs you got at Claire's as a kid. (Also, Claire's probably used a piercing gun, which is a huge no-no.) You can experiment with the placement and number of this classic to create an unconventional look. As Lopez explained, since there's most blood flow in the lobe, these heal the easiest — so why stop at just one?
Tragus

Daith

Rook and Industrial

Also pictured here is a rook. "A rook piercing is the little flap of cartilage at the top of your ear but below your helix," Lopez says. "Not every single person can do every single ear piercing. I have come across a few rooks that aren’t pierceable." Lopez adds that it's important to go into your piercing studio with an open mind, because your anatomy may not be suited to the piercing you want. Experienced piercers will recognize when that's the case.