If you’ve spent any time online or chatting with friends about alternative treatments for migraines, chances are you’ve heard the rumor: “Get a daith piercing—it cured my migraines!” It’s a claim that’s been circulating for years and continues to gain traction on social media.
But let’s talk facts, not fads.
As professional piercers and advocates for accurate education, it’s important to address this narrative head-on: There is no scientific evidence proving that a daith piercing cures or consistently relieves migraines.
What Is a Daith Piercing?
The daith (pronounced “dayth” or “doth”) is a cartilage piercing located in the innermost fold of the ear, just above the ear canal. It’s stylish, unique, and often chosen for aesthetic reasons. Daith piercings are typically performed with a captive bead ring, and when healed, they offer a subtle and striking addition to curated ear looks.
From a piercing perspective, the daith is a cool, anatomical placement that works well with high-quality jewelry—especially in gold or titanium. But medically? It’s not a cure for chronic pain.
Where Did the Migraine Myth Come From?
The idea that daith piercings can treat migraines likely stems from the piercing’s proximity to an acupressure point used in traditional Chinese medicine. Some believe that piercing this spot could have similar effects to acupuncture, which has shown promise for some in migraine management.
But acupuncture and piercing are not the same. Acupuncture involves the temporary and strategic placement of fine needles by trained medical professionals to stimulate nerve pathways and encourage specific physiological responses.
Piercing, on the other hand, creates permanent trauma to the tissue. It’s not targeted medical treatment—it’s body modification.
What the Research Says
To date, there is no clinical or peer-reviewed study that shows a daith piercing is a safe or effective treatment for migraines. In fact, most medical professionals and neurologists discourage relying on anecdotal evidence, especially when it can delay or replace proven treatments.
Some people report temporary relief after receiving a daith piercing—but placebo effects are real and powerful. That doesn’t mean the piercing caused the change.
Risks of Chasing a “Cure”
Relying on daith piercings as a migraine treatment can carry consequences:
- Delayed diagnosis: Migraines can be a symptom of underlying health issues that require medical attention.
- Improper aftercare: Clients hoping for quick relief may neglect proper healing practices or become frustrated when symptoms persist.
- Unrealistic expectations: Believing a piercing will resolve a complex neurological condition can lead to disappointment or worsening mental health.
As professional piercers, it’s our responsibility to provide accurate information, safe procedures, and clear boundaries about what piercings can and cannot do.
What You Can Expect from a Daith Piercing
If you’re considering a daith piercing for style, self-expression, or because you just love the look—go for it! With proper anatomy and experienced technique, daith piercings can be a beautiful addition to your curated ear.
But if you’re seeking medical relief from chronic migraines, we strongly encourage you to speak with a neurologist or headache specialist. Integrative treatment, lifestyle changes, and medication are far more reliable options than relying on a piercing alone.
Final Thoughts
Piercings are powerful forms of self-expression. They can make you feel confident, grounded, and even empowered—which can indirectly improve your well-being. But when it comes to treating medical conditions like migraines, a piercing should never replace proper care.
At the end of the day, the daith is an awesome piercing. Just don’t let social media myths turn it into something it’s not.