DAITH PIERCING GUIDE
what is a daith piercing?
A daith piercing sits within the small fold of cartilage above the ear canal, nestled in one of the most intricate and eye-catching parts of the ear. Elegant and discreet, it’s a placement loved for its balance of subtlety and sophistication.
Because of its location within the inner ear, the daith piercing can take longer to heal and requires careful aftercare. Positioned close to the ear canal, it is more exposed to moisture and bacteria, making consistent cleaning and professional guidance especially important.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know — from placement and procedure to healing, aftercare, and styling inspiration.
daith
The daith is a single, unique piercing — there isn’t space for multiples in this area, but that doesn’t limit creativity. The shape of the cartilage allows for striking customisation through jewellery choice, from minimalist hoops to diamond clickers that elegantly hug the inner curve of the ear.
Daith piercing procedure
Your Covetear experience begins with a thorough sterilisation of the area using a medical-grade solution. Your piercer will then carefully mark the placement, taking into account your anatomy, future styling goals, and desired look.
Because of the curvature of the area, a curved needle is used to ensure precision and minimise trauma. The procedure is performed using a sterile, single-use 18-gauge needle — never a piercing gun or pressure device. This approach allows for accuracy, safer healing, and reduced risk of infection.
Once the piercing is complete, your chosen piece — often a fine hoop or clicker — will be installed. All Covetear piercing jewellery is crafted for safety, comfort, and enduring style, allowing you to wear it confidently from day one.
Just like that, your daith piercing is ready to shine.
Pain and healing time
Pain Guide: 9/10
The daith piercing sits in a thicker, curved section of cartilage and requires a slightly longer piercing process than most others. The sensation is often described as firm pressure rather than sharp pain — a brief moment that delivers an exceptional result.
Healing time: approximately 3–6 months
Here’s what to expect as your piercing heals:
First 72 hours: Some swelling, redness, warmth, and minor bleeding are completely normal.
Weeks 2–4: You may notice faint pulsing or light fluid discharge that forms a crust — avoid touching or twisting your jewellery.
Weeks 5–12: Discomfort should fade, but internal healing continues. Avoid friction, pressure, or snagging. Around this stage, your piercer may recommend downsizing your post to support continued healing.
3 months and beyond: Continue to be patient — while the outer tissue may appear healed, the cartilage beneath takes longer to stabilise. We recommend waiting at least 16 weeks (4 months) before changing jewellery.
If jewellery is removed without replacement, the piercing may begin to close within hours. Always keep your jewellery securely in place.
Aftercare
The daith piercing is one of the more delicate placements to heal, but with consistent care, it will settle beautifully.
At Covetear, we offer unlimited complimentary Aftercare Appointments to support you throughout the healing process with expert, tailored advice.
Follow these four key steps for best results:
- Hands off. Avoid touching the piercing unnecessarily. Always wash your hands thoroughly before any contact.
- Clean with NeilMed™ Piercing Aftercare Spray. Hold 3–6cm away, spraying both the front and back of the piercing. Use a clean cotton tip to gently remove any residue or dried discharge.
- Pat completely dry. Avoid tissues, cotton buds, or wool — loose fibres can irritate and introduce bacteria.
- Clean twice daily for 6–8 weeks, then once daily as your piercing continues to heal.
Pro tip: When washing your hair, gently rinse around your piercing with a removable shower head to ensure shampoo or conditioner residue is fully removed before applying aftercare spray.
is your piercing infected?
Here's what to do - The serious stuff
Because the daith is positioned close to the ear canal, it’s particularly important to maintain proper hygiene and avoid introducing bacteria through unclean hands or moisture build-up.
If you experience sudden swelling, excessive bleeding, bright yellow or green discharge, red streaking, fever, or dizziness, contact us immediately.
Our team is available seven days a week for aftercare support, though if a bacterial infection is suspected, we recommend seeing a doctor as soon as possible.
TIME TO STYLE!
The daith piercing offers endless styling potential, no matter your aesthetic. Whether you prefer subtle elegance or bold brilliance, this placement allows for creativity and personal expression.
For timeless sophistication, we love the 14K Solid Gold Classic Solitaire Ring. For a modern twist, the 14K Solid Gold Petit Clicker Ring adds understated edge and shine.
Explore our Daith Piercing Collection to discover the perfect piece to complement your new piercing.
Daith Collection
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Petite Clicker Ring
14K Yellow Gold / SingleRegular price From $170.00Regular priceUnit price per -
Petite Clicker Ring
14K White Gold / SingleRegular price From $175.00Regular priceUnit price per -
Dot Dash Clicker Ring
14K Yellow Gold / SingleRegular price From $285.00Regular priceUnit price per -
Dotty Seamless Ring
14K Yellow Gold / SingleRegular price From $235.00Regular priceUnit price per -
Pave' Diamond Clicker Ring
14K Yellow Gold / SingleRegular price From $410.00Regular priceUnit price per
piercing and styling appointments
Ready to elevate your ear with a daith piercing? Book your appointment at one of our Covetear studios, where our expert piercers will ensure a comfortable experience and flawless placement.
If you’re unsure which jewellery best suits your anatomy or aesthetic, our Deluxe Piercing Experience and Ear Curation Appointments offer bespoke styling consultations to create your ideal look.