Upper lobe piercing is placed higher on earlobe near cartilage fold. Also known as high lobe, second lobe, or third lobe piercing. Costs range from under $30 to nearly $100
Ear picks are used to clean ear canals of earwax. Common in East, South and Southeast Asia due to dry ear wax. Traditionally made from bamboo, now commonly stainless steel or plastic
Piercing middle ear cartilage resembling a conch shell. Can be inner (lower) or outer (upper) conch piercing
Earwax protects outer ear canal from dirt and bacteria. Wet earwax has higher lipid content, dry earwax has lower content. Healthy earwax decreases risk of ear infections
Earlobes are soft skin flaps at lower part of outer ear. Contain blood vessels and nerves, no cartilage. Genetics determine attachment type: attached, free, or partially attached. Ear circumference increases by 0.51mm per year with age
Saline solution can be used by tilting ear upward and letting it soak for 1 minute. Hydrogen peroxide mixed with warm water can dissolve hardened wax. Baby oil or mineral oil can soften earwax before rinsing. Alcohol and vinegar mixture can help cleanse and dry ears