Tattoo And Piercing Laws: Minimum Age Requirements By State
January 3, 2026
Cartilage piercings are one of the most common body modifications outside of basic earlobe piercings. But there are many misconceptions surrounding cartilage piercings because of their uniqueness to standard ear piercings.
It’s important to do the proper research about body modifications in advance so you know what to expect if a cartilage piercing is what you want. To help you make the right decision, here are some of the most common misconceptions about cartilage piercings and the real truth behind them:
1.You’ll hear a crunching sound. Many people get anxious when they’re getting their cartilage pierced. These nerves are normal. But if you’re anxious because you’re expecting to hear a gross “crunching” noise, you have nothing to fear. In a professional tattoo and piercing shop, an experienced piercer uses a sharp, hollow needle to pierce your cartilage quickly and precisely. The only time you will hear a “crunch” is if you’re at your local mall or department store getting a piercing from a piercing gun. These tools aren’t designed to pierce cartilage and are actually banned for use by the Association of Professional Piercers.
2. You’ll experience a lot of pain. At a professional tattoo and piercing shop, you won’t experience the same amount of pain that you might experience at a department store piercing shop. In fact, many people have compared cartilage piercing pain to that of the first line of a tattoo. The initial pain might be aggravating, but the following pain is only a dull ache or slight throbbing.
3. Your body only rejects a piercing when you don’t clean it. Even the most loved and well-taken-care-of cartilage piercings can end up being rejected by your body. This can happen for several reasons. The most common reason is that you have an allergy to a type of metal in your jewelry. Nickle is the most prevalent allergen. Another common condition is hypertrophic scarring, which cartilage ear piercings are prone to. Contact your piercer if your piercing site develops a bump or begins showing signs of infection.
Interested in body piercings or other types of body expressions?
If you’re interested in getting your cartilage pierced, you’re not alone. In fact, 14% of Americans have body piercings in locations other than their earlobes as of 2015.
Elite Ink has the professional experience to give you the piercing you’re looking for whether it’s an ear-piercing, navel piercing, or nose ring. For more information about our body piercing services or tattoo designs, contact Elite Ink today.
