So, I finally took the plunge and made an appointment for my industrial. It was already going to be a new experience because I would have a new piercer. For the past 4 years I have always gone to Metamorphosis in Broad Ripple, Indiana, but my “old” piercer, Billy, left last year for warmer climates. I had met Kristen and Joe and had gotten a couple of jewelry changes from them, but this was the first time I’d actually be getting pierced by someone new. I made my appointment with Kristen.
I was actually surprised that Kristen remembered me, but it was nice to have a sense of familiarity with my new piercer. We chit-chatted a bit as she was marking the angle at which I wanted my Industrial bar to go. Then she had me lay back on the table.
I felt the point of the needle against my skin as she lined the needle up just right and then she had me inhale deeply and slowly exhale. Usually the needle is all the way through before you manage to get through an entire exhale, but not with these thick cartilage piercings. So I was in quite a bit of pain and at the end of my breath, which left me holding it instead. But it wasn’t long after that that the needle was through. Then the receiving tube to get the jewelry in was pretty rough, but quick. Whew – one down and one to go.
The second one was definitely worse. I was already experiencing discomfort and burning from the first one, and the second one seemed to take even longer, although it was probably only my imagination. Kristen kept me chatting through it though, which really did help. Without her calm voice and small talk to keep me distracted, it would have been worse.
All in all, I have to say this may be the most painful piercing I have had to date. It’s probably because it’s technically two piercings. But – as they say – no pain, no gain. It’s also probably one of my favorite piercings to date, other than my tragus.
I’ve got my Satin cleanser and sea salt to keep it clean. Since I wear a lot of hair products, I have to be really careful not to get any on it and I will be changing my pillowcase daily. As of the time I’m writing this, it’s been seven hours since I got my piercing and my ear still feels as if it’s on fire. This piercing is definitely not for those who don’t tolerate pain well.
While I was at the shop, I also got myself a new pair of swan spiral earrings. They are gorgeous! So with my new piercing and new jewelry, my ears are feeling sexy!
The first night was a bit restless. It woke me up when I accidentally rolled over on my ear, but I was able to find a comfortable position and go back to sleep. The next morning, the burning feeling was gone and washing it felt great. It's obviously still tender, but so far the healing process is going just fine.
I'm due for a haircut but I think I'm going to put it off for a couple of weeks. The thought of her accidentally raking across my ear with the comb is not pleasant, so I am going to wait until it's not so sensitive.
