Rook Piercings are done through the shelf of tissue that runs behind the forward helix and down the outer rim of the ear. Rook piercings are traditionally started with a curved barbell that is 16 or 14g. Once healed they can be switched to a well fitting hoop for a different look. These piercings became popular in the 90’s thanks to piercer Erik Dakota. While these piercings are very attractive they can also be a bit of a pain to heal. Between longer healing times and jewelry variety the Faux Rook has become very popular recently. A Faux Rook goes straight through the tissue right above the ridge of the rook. It’s done with a straight barbell allowing more choices and more ornate ends to be worn, and most of our clients find it to be easier to heal.
Neither is better, they just offer different things. A traditional rook has the top and bottom of the curved barbell on which ornate or cute pieces can be worn initially. Once healed a jcurve can be worn for an even more unique look or a ring. However, they can be a bit harder to heal, and the fact that they use a curve can limit your choices on pieces for the top. A Faux rook can wear jewelry as large or ornate as the anatomy allows for and is often a bit easier to heal. However it does not give you the look of a top and bottom bead, and you can not wear a ring in it.
Can I wear ear buds with a healing rook?
Yes! The rook won’t get in the way of any traditional in ear headphones.
Can I start with a hoop?
We don’t suggest starting with a hoop in this piercing, as it would need to be quite over-sized to allow for swelling, and the movement of the hoop could cause issues while healing.
