PIERCING KNOWLEDGE

Here is some useful information about piercings you might want to know.

Will receiving a piercing leave a scar?

A piercing is a semi-permanent alteration to one’s body as the jewellery can easily be removed however there is a risk of irreversible changes to the body which include discolouration of the skin, a mark on the skin like a scar, a bump on the skin, a concave dip/dimple on the skin or a permanent hole.

Although most piercings will shrink and close up completely there are some piercings which will remain open without jewellery being worn in them and may never close up completely which is largely dependent on the duration of the piercing being worn and the thickness of the jewellery.

How do I avoid injury and or damage to my piercing?

Healing piercings are at greater risk of injury. When getting a new piercing, take extra caution in regard to exercise as well as your pets and children to prevent hooking, snagging and bumping your piercings. Making a conscious effort to be aware of your piercing and avoid acts that can hook, snag or bump your piercing (such as removing clothing items carefully) are essential to avoid accidental injury to the piercing.

How common are piercing infections?

Local bacterial infections are the most common type of infection when it comes to piercings. This means that the infection is present only at the piercing site and is generally a result of either getting pierced in unsanitary conditions or not adhering to proper aftercare instructions. An infection that is more serious or systemic is rare especially when the person receiving the piercing is healthy and the piercing is done in a sterile environment.

Is it safe to get pierced while nursing?

It is best to wait at least three to four months postpartum to get pierced, at this time your body’s immune system will have returned to normal. Nipple piercings in particular are not advised until at least three months after milk is no longer being produced by your body.

Is it safe to get pierced while pregnant?

To get straight to the point, the answer is no. In order to prevent infection in the baby without compromising the health of the mother, your immune system changes to prevent disease in both the mother and baby. This results in the immune system enhancing certain parts and suppressing others. These changes result in difficulty healing and even flare-ups in old and completely healed piercings. It’s best to let your body focus solely on its important job of maintaining a healthy pregnancy and only get your piercing done at least three to four months postpartum.

Restrictions and paperwork required for piercing anyone under 18 years of age.

All clients are required to sign a consent form on the day of their piercing. You will need to present your ID on the day of your piercing. Failure to do so will result in the rescheduling/cancellation of your booking. An individual under the age of 18 needs to have a parent or legal guardian present on the day of the piercing procedure along with their ID as well as identification for the minor and will both need to sign the consent form. Children receiving lobe piercings need to be at least 8 years of age and will need to be able to take care of their own piercings and fully understand the piercing procedure (done with a needle and not a gun) as well as aftercare instructions which are accessible on the website under “Piercing Types”.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE DAY OF YOUR PIERCING.

  1. Ensure that you have eaten before your appointment and have something sugary to drink on hand.
  2. Ensure that the clothing you are wearing is compatible with your new piercing (i.e. no high-waisted pants or skirts for a navel piercing)
  3. Do not consume alcohol or any other substances that will alter your decision-making at least two days prior to your appointment.
  4. Ensure that you have your parent or legal guardian present on the day of your piercing if you are a minor (under 18 years of age) and that you both are able to present your I.D.

General healing times depend on the placement of the piercing on the body.

  1. Oral piercings: 4-12 weeks.
  2. Earlobe piercings: under 12g (2mm) 6 weeks, 12g (2mm) and larger 2-3 months.
  3. Facial piercings: 2-6 months
  4. Cartilage piercings : 3-6 months
  5. Nipple piercings: small nipples(1cm wide) 3-4months, larger nipples take 6-9months
  6. Navel piercings: 6 months
  7. Surface piercings: 6-9 months