When it comes to cartilage piercings, the helix is considered the least painful as the cartilage is thinner in this area. However, it is more painful than the usual pinch felt in lobe piercings. On average helix piercings are around 4/10 on the pain scale, but this should be swift. Everyone's pain tolerance is different so you may experience less or more pain than friends who have also had earrings in this area.