The rook is a cartilage piercing, meaning healing can take anywhere from 6–12 months — or longer to fully heal. Patience and consistency with your aftercare routine will carry you through the tough moments and make all the difference in the end.

Pro tip: Warm compresses will be your bestfriend with the rook. Warm chamomile tea compresses are a great tool to reduce swelling and soothe irritation. Simply steep a bag, let it cool, and hold it gently against the piercing daily. Allergic to ragweed? A warm saline gauze compress works just as well.