Migraines can feel like they take over your entire life. The pounding in your temples, the nausea, the sensitivity to light, it’s no joke. That’s why so many people have been talking about the daith piercing for migraines. This piercing, tucked into the inner fold of your ear, has become a viral trend among migraine sufferers who claim it helped reduce their pain.
But can a piercing really do what medication and therapy often can’t? Let’s look at what this trend is about, what science says, and whether it might be right for you. If you’re already thinking about getting one, check out our guide on how much a daith piercing costs before booking your appointment.
What Exactly Is a Daith Piercing for Migraines?
The daith piercing for migraines is placed through the thick cartilage fold right above your ear canal. It’s not an easy spot to reach, which makes it one of the more unique and striking ear piercings. Some people get it purely for aesthetics, while others hope it might relieve migraine pain.
This type of piercing of the ear for migraines has been compared to acupuncture. The idea is that it hits a pressure point thought to be connected to the vagus nerve, a nerve that plays a role in pain regulation. By applying constant pressure to this area, some believe it helps calm the nerve pathways that contribute to migraines.
It’s an interesting theory, but so far, there’s no hard scientific proof that it works. Still, plenty of people claim they’ve felt relief afterward, which is why it’s become so popular in recent years.
What Does Science Actually Say About Ear Piercings for Migraines?
There’s a lot of buzz about ear piercings for migraines, especially daith and tragus piercings, but medical studies haven’t confirmed a direct connection between these piercings and migraine relief.
Doctors say any improvement might come from the placebo effect, basically, your brain helping you feel better because you believe the piercing will help. The connection to acupuncture is often mentioned, but the actual piercing point isn’t the same as the one used in acupuncture treatments for headaches.
That doesn’t mean people are making it up. The human brain is complex, and if something reduces stress or gives you a sense of control, it can absolutely affect how your body perceives pain. The takeaway is this: a daith piercing for migraines might help you personally, even if science hasn’t caught up yet.
Daith vs. Tragus: Which Ear Piercing for Migraines Works Better?
You might have heard about the tragus ear piercing for migraines too. The tragus is the little flap that covers the ear canal, and like the daith, it’s made of cartilage. Some believe it also connects to a pressure point that could impact headache symptoms.
However, when it comes to popularity, the daith piercing wins by far. It’s the one most often linked to migraine relief claims. Both piercings can look great, but neither has proven to be a consistent medical solution.
If you’re considering trying one, the daith piercing for migraines tends to be the go-to for people who want to see if it might help, or just want a bold new ear piercing that stands out.
What People Say About Ear Piercing Relief for Migraines
Stories about ear piercing relief for migraines are everywhere online. Some people say they’ve gone from having weekly migraines to only one every few months. Others say it didn’t make a difference at all.
Experts from clinics and headache centers agree that results vary person to person. A few case reports show temporary improvement, but long-term relief hasn’t been proven. What’s clear is that it’s a low-risk experiment if done properly. At worst, you get a new piercing you love.
Still, if you’re going to try it, safety is key. A daith piercing for migraines is done through thick cartilage, so it’s not something you want to trust to just anyone.
What to Expect During the Piercing Process
At a reputable studio like Mantra Tattoo, you’ll be guided through every step of your ear piercing for migraines experience.
Here’s what happens:
First, your piercer will disinfect and mark the area to ensure proper placement. A sterilized, single-use needle is used to pierce the cartilage. You’ll feel a quick, sharp pinch—it’s fast, but intense for a moment. Then your piercer inserts high-quality jewelry, usually a small hoop or curved barbell designed to sit comfortably in the inner fold of your ear.
Every artist at our studio follows strict hygiene standards. We use medical-grade sterilization equipment and jewelry made from implant-grade materials like titanium or gold, which minimizes irritation and speeds up healing.
Healing and Aftercare for a Daith Piercing
A daith piercing for migraines takes longer to heal than a regular earlobe piercing because cartilage has less blood flow. It can take anywhere from six to nine months before it’s fully healed.
Your piercer will give you specific aftercare instructions, but some of the most important tips include:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your piercing.
- Use a sterile saline solution twice a day.
- Avoid sleeping on the pierced side until it’s fully healed.
- Don’t twist, turn, or remove the jewelry too early.
You can track your healing stages using our ear piercings healing chart.
For more detailed steps on cleaning and care, check out our piercing aftercare guide. Following the right aftercare routine keeps your piercing healthy, prevents infection, and ensures a smooth recovery.
Are There Any Risks?
While a daith piercing for migraines is safe when done by a professional, it still carries risks like infection, swelling, or scarring. Because it’s a cartilage piercing, healing takes longer, and poor aftercare can cause complications.
The best way to avoid issues is to go to an experienced piercer. At Mantra Tattoo in Denver, we maintain strict sterilization procedures and only use premium jewelry that’s safe for sensitive skin.
If you notice redness, warmth, or discharge, it’s best to contact your piercer or a healthcare provider before it worsens. Most infections clear up quickly with the right care, but ignoring them can cause long-term problems.
Does It Actually Help?
So, does a daith piercing for migraines really work? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For some people, it’s life-changing. For others, it’s just a stylish addition to their ear.
A few theories suggest that it may provide mild neuromodulation, basically, constant stimulation of the nerves near the piercing might reduce how your brain perceives pain. Others think the effect is purely placebo. Either way, if it makes your migraines easier to handle and you like the look, that’s a win.
And even if the relief is temporary, plenty of people believe it’s worth trying, especially if you’re already getting a piercing for aesthetic reasons.
Who Should Consider It?
If you’ve tried traditional migraine treatments and are still struggling, getting a daith piercing for migraines might be worth considering. It’s safe, subtle, and stylish when done by a professional.
It’s also popular among people who want an alternative approach that feels a bit more personal. Whether or not it brings migraine relief, you’ll walk away with a cool new piercing that adds character to your look.
If you’re curious but nervous, you can always talk to one of our artists about placement, jewelry options, and what to expect. At Mantra Tattoo, we’re here to make the process smooth from start to finish.
Why Get Your Daith Piercing for Migraines at Mantra Tattoo in Denver
Getting a daith piercing for migraines is about more than chasing potential pain relief, it’s about trusting experts who care about your safety and results.
At Mantra Tattoo in Denver, our piercers are highly trained in cartilage piercings, sterilization techniques, and aftercare. You’ll find a wide selection of high-quality jewelry options available on the spot, so you can choose a piece that fits your style and comfort level.
We’re known for creating a relaxed, welcoming environment and offering expert guidance through every step of your piercing journey. Whether you’re here for aesthetic reasons or to see if it helps your headaches, we’ll make sure you walk out feeling confident.
Ready to book your appointment or have questions? Visit our contact us page to get started.
FAQs on Getting a Daith Piercing for Migraines
Does a daith piercing really help with migraines?
There’s no solid medical proof that it prevents or stops migraines, but many people report feeling some relief afterward. Doctors generally consider it safe to try if you go to a licensed piercer and follow proper aftercare.
Which ear should I get pierced for migraine relief?
There’s no official rule. Some people pierce the side where their migraines tend to start, while others get both ears done. Talk to your piercer about what might work best for you.
Is it painful to get?
Most people describe the pain as a quick, sharp pinch. It’s more intense than a lobe piercing but manageable, especially when done by an experienced piercer.
How long does a daith piercing take to heal?
Cartilage piercings take longer to heal than soft-tissue ones. Expect six to nine months before it’s fully healed. Following aftercare closely can help speed it up.
Can I still wear earbuds after getting it done?
It’s best to avoid earbuds and tight headphones while your piercing heals. Once it’s fully healed, you can go back to using them as normal.
