Piercing FAQ's
Do you book piercing appointments?
All piercings are done on a walk-in basis.
Piercing appointments are only required for children ages 6 and under.
Can I get re-pierced in the same spot as before?
In many cases, yes. However, the area must be fully healed and free of scar tissue complications. Your piercer will examine the area to determine if it can safely be re-pierced or if a slightly different placement would be better.
Do I have the right anatomy for a piercing?
Not everyone has the anatomy required for every piercing. Factors such as tissue structure, placement area, and body shape determine whether a piercing can be done safely. Your piercer will evaluate your anatomy before performing the procedure.
When do I see my piercer?
You should visit your piercer for:
●Downsizing your jewelry
●Jewelry changes
●Irritation or healing concerns
●Routine check-ups to ensure proper healing
Professional piercers are trained to help keep your piercing healthy.
What do I do if my piercing has issues?
If you notice unusual swelling, irritation, discharge, or other concerns:
●Continue proper aftercare
●Avoid touching or removing jewelry
●Contact your piercer for advice
Your piercer can help identify the issue and guide you toward the best solution.
Can I get pierced with an autoimmune disease?
Many people with autoimmune conditions can still get piercings, but healing may take longer and your body may respond differently. It’s important to consult with your doctor if needed and inform your piercer about your condition so proper precautions can be taken.
Can I get pierced on medications?
Some medications can affect bleeding, swelling, healing, or your immune response. Blood thinners, certain acne medications, or immune-suppressing drugs may impact your piercing. Always inform your piercer about medications so they can determine if it is safe to proceed.
Do I have to check my jewelry ends, balls, and pins?
YES- Jewelry ends can occasionally loosen with movement or daily activity. You should regularly check that threaded/threadless ends, balls, and pins are secure to prevent losing jewelry or having it fall out.
Will my piercing swell?
YES- Swelling is a normal part of the healing process, especially during the first few days. The amount of swelling varies depending on the piercing location and your body’s response. Initial jewelry is sized longer to safely accommodate this swelling.
What metal/material is safe for my piercing?
Safe materials for piercings include:
●Implant grade titanium
●Implant grade surgical steel
●Solid 14k–18k gold (nickel-free)
●Niobium
●Glass (for some piercings)
Your piercer will recommend the best option based on the piercing and your skin sensitivity.
Does getting a piercing hurt?
YES- but the pain is usually quick and manageable. Most piercings feel like a sharp pinch that lasts only a second.
How long do piercings take to heal?
Healing time depends on the piercing location. Initial healing takes 6 weeks to 6 months, while cartilage piercings may take 6–12 months. Permanent healing can up to a few years.
How should I clean my piercing?
Clean your piercing 1-2 times per day using sterile saline solution. Avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh chemicals.
Can I touch my piercing?
Only touch your piercing with clean hands when cleaning it. Avoid unnecessary touching to prevent infection.
When can I change my jewelry?
Jewelry should only be changed after the piercing is fully healed. Your piercer can help determine when it is safe.
What should I avoid after getting a piercing?
Avoid:
●Swimming in pools, lakes, and hot tubs
●Touching with dirty hands
●Twisting or rotating jewelry
●Sleeping directly on the piercing
What is normal during healing?
Normal healing signs include:
●Swelling
●Redness
●Clear or light yellow discharge
●Slight tenderness
●Bleeding
●Bruising
What are signs of infection?
Possible signs include:
●Severe swelling
●Intense pain
●Green or dark discharge
●Fever or spreading redness
If these occur, consult a professional piercer or healthcare provider.
Can I swim after getting a piercing?
It’s best to avoid swimming for at least 4 weeks, especially in lakes, pools, and hot tubs.
Can I remove my jewelry during healing?
NO- Removing jewelry during healing can cause the hole to close quickly and trap bacteria.
What if my piercing swells?
Swelling is normal. Using cold compresses and ice packs can help restrict inflammation. Taking an anti-inflammatory can also help with swelling.
Why is there crust around my piercing?
The crust is dried lymph fluid, which is part of the body’s natural healing process.
Can I sleep on my new piercing?
Try to avoid sleeping directly on it, especially with ear or cartilage piercings, to prevent irritation.
Do piercings close if I remove the jewelry?
YES- Some piercings can close within minutes to hours, especially if they are new.
Why do I have to downsize my jewelry?
Initial jewelry is intentionally longer to allow room for swelling during the first stages of healing. Once swelling goes down (usually within a few weeks depending on the piercing), the jewelry should be downsized to a shorter post. This prevents irritation, snagging, shifting, and crooked healing. Do not downsize the piercing yourself before the healing is done. A professional piercer should do it for you.
Why can’t I use any jewelry in a piercing?
Not all jewelry is safe for fresh or healing piercings. Poor quality metals, incorrect sizing, or improper shapes can cause irritation, allergic reactions, infections, or damage to the piercing. Professional piercing jewelry is specifically designed for safety, proper healing, and body compatibility.
What causes piercing bumps?
Piercing bumps are usually caused by irritation. Common causes include:
●Jewelry that is too long or too short
●Low-quality jewelry material
●Snagging, pressure, or sleeping on the piercing
●Improper aftercare
●Moisture or buildup around the piercing
●Movement or trauma
These bumps are typically irritation bumps, not something permanent, but can become permanent over long periods of time.
Is my bump a keloid?
Most bumps around piercings are not keloids. Keloids are a genetic type of scar that grows beyond the original wound and usually requires medical treatment. Irritation bumps are much more common and typically go away once the source of irritation is addressed.