Industrial Earrings

Shop industrial earrings at SkinKandy, in titanium, surgical steel and 14K gold barbells, for the industrial piercing across the upper ear.

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An industrial piercing, also called a scaffold piercing, connects two separate piercings in the upper ear cartilage, usually the forward helix and the outer helix, with a single straight barbell.

Types of industrial jewellery

  • Straight industrial bars: a longer straight barbell that passes through both piercings, usually 14G and 34mm to 38mm in length.
  • Decorative bars: industrial bars with decorative centre pieces, gem-set ends or different coloured finishes, for once your piercing has fully healed.
  • Charms and chains: can be added to complement your bar once your piercing has healed.

Industrial piercing at a glance

What to know
Gauge 14G
Bar length 34mm to 38mm, depending on your anatomy
Full healing 6 to 12 months
Best material while healing Implant grade Titanium

Is an industrial piercing right for my ear?

An industrial piercing needs two separate piercings to line up along one straight bar, so the shape of your upper ear cartilage matters. Our piercing specialists will check your ear in studio before piercing and measure the bar length that sits comfortably across it. The length is chosen so the bar doesn't press into either piercing hole. If your ear isn't suited to a standard industrial, your piercer can talk you through the alternatives.

How long does an industrial piercing take to heal?

Industrial piercings take 6 to 12 months to fully heal, making them one of the longer-healing ear piercings. Because the bar passes through two separate cartilage points, both need to heal at the same time, which can extend the timeline. Follow your aftercare routine carefully and avoid sleeping on the side of your industrial piercing. If you experience any issues during healing, visit one of our studios for a check-up with a piercing specialist.

What material is best for an industrial piercing?

Implant grade Titanium is the recommended material for fresh industrial piercings, because it's lightweight and reduces the chance of irritation during healing. Surgical Steel can also be used in fresh piercings, though it can contain traces of nickel, so Titanium or 14K Gold are better options if you have a nickel sensitivity. Because the bar sits across a larger area of cartilage, choosing a material that's kind to your skin makes a real difference in comfort.

Can I customise my industrial bar?

Once your industrial piercing is fully healed, you've got options for switching up your look. You can choose bars with decorative centre pieces, gem-set ends or different coloured finishes. Some people also add charms and chains to their industrial bar for a more personalised stack. Just make sure any new bar matches your 14G gauge and fits the length your piercing needs.

Does an industrial piercing hurt more than other ear piercings?

Industrial piercings involve two cartilage punctures in a single session, so they're typically more intense than a single-point piercing. Most people describe it as a strong pinch followed by pressure as the bar is fitted. The experience varies from person to person, and our piercing specialists are trained to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible. After the initial piercing, any discomfort usually settles within the first few days. For more on what to expect, browse our piercing info page.

Book a piercing at SkinKandy

Ready for an industrial piercing? Visit our piercing menu to book with our piercing specialists.