May 22, 2025, 12:51 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Ear piercings are among the most commonly done piercings, as the possibilities are nearly endless. A popular spot is the daith piercing, which is located in the ear’s cartilage. Here’s what you need to know about this piercing.
Zoë Kravitz is one of the most famous wearers of Daith piercings. In March 2025, she appeared on the red carpet at the infamous Vanity Fair party with her distinctive ear jewelry. Kylie Jenner and Miley Cyrus have also been spotted with a Daith. But what exactly is this piercing?
Overview
Where is a Daith Piercing located?
A Daith piercing is a cartilage piercing that goes through the small fold of cartilage directly above the ear canal—essentially through the innermost cartilage ring of the ear. It is located in the so-called “Daith,” hence the name.
Pain, Healing Time, and Care
The pain during piercing is, of course, individual and largely depends on one’s pain threshold. Some compare it to pressure or pinching. Many find the piercing to be moderately painful. The pain is brief but intense, as it goes through firm cartilage. After piercing, some describe throbbing or sensitivity to pressure for several days, especially when sleeping on the side.
Since it is a cartilage piercing, the healing time is three to nine months, depending on the body, care, and tissue reaction. It’s important to carefully care for the freshly pierced area throughout this period. Use a sterile saline solution or a special piercing care spray. Soak a clean cotton swab or compress with it and gently dab the jewelry and puncture site without rubbing or twisting.
Important: Contrary to old recommendations, do not twist or move the jewelry, especially in the early stages, and only touch it with clean hands.
What Jewelry is Worn with a Daith Piercing?
Most people get a Daith piercing to wear a ring that can be seen from above due to the unique location of the piercing. Circular barbells, which are round bars resembling small horseshoes, can also be used.
Pain, Healing Time, and Care for a Daith Piercing
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Daith Piercing and Migraines
The Daith piercing became popular due to claims that it could alleviate migraines. The piercing supposedly stimulates an acupuncture point or nerve in the ear, similar to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The vagus nerve does indeed influence migraines, but there are no recognized medical studies proving that a Daith piercing effectively helps with migraines. Therefore, a Daith piercing is primarily body jewelry and not a treatment.