Deciding to get a new piercing is an exciting journey, but it can also come with a bit of apprehension if you're unsure what to expect. To help ease the anxiety, we've put together a guide to help your navigate what to expect from your next visit to a piercing studio.

1. Choosing the Right Studio

Your experience begins with selecting a reputable piercing studio. Seek out studios with positive reviews, professional websites, and licensed piercers. Being a member of the Association of Professional Piercers is typically a good sign. A professional studio will maintain high standards of hygiene, have qualified piercers, and use high quality jewelry.

2. Pre-Piercing Preparations

On the day of your appointment, make sure to eat a good meal within 2 hours of your scheduled piercing. Stay hydrated the day of and avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can increase bleeding and anxiety. Wear comfy clothes that allow for easy access to the area being pierced.

3. Consultation

Before your piercing, you will have an opportunity to consult with your piercer and/or counter employees to discuss the piercing you want, ask questions, and understand the process. They will provide info on the different types of jewelry, placement options, as well as aftercare.

This is also an opportunity for the piercer to assess your anatomy and determine the best placement for your piercing. It's important to understand that some piercings require a specific anatomy. For instance, eyebrow and some lip piercings can only be placed if there is adequate fleshy space for the piercing to be placed without an increased risk of rejection. 

4. The Piercing Process

Once you are in a private area to be pierced, your piercer will mark your skin where the piercing will be placed. You will get the chance to check the placement and approve of it before proceeding. 

Next, your piercer will use a sterile needle to pierce you. This process is super quick and will be over before you know it!

Immediately after the piercing, the piercer will insert the jewelry. This typically take a few seconds to make sure it's secure and positioned properly. And voila, you are basically done!!

5. After Care Instructions

Once your piercing is complete, your piercer will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions specific to your new piercing. This usually includes saline rinses, keeping your hands AWAY from the pierced area, and eventually coming back in to downsize your jewelry. 

Looking for an aftercare refresher? Read our guide here.