Getting a new piercing is an exciting experience, no matter what you're opting for. However, to ensure the process goes smoothly and you heal comfortably afterward, it’s essential to beprepared. Follow this guide to make your piercing appointment a positive experience from start to finish, whether you're visiting Luna Piercing in Connecticut, or any other studio across the world.
1. Choose a Reputable Piercer
Before your appointment, take the time to research what it means to be a professional piercer. Experienced and hygienic practitioners who practice continued education are harder to come by than the standard walk-in shop located on every other street corner. Ideally a studio will have good reviews, a well put together website full of the information you need, and staff happy to answer any questions you have - even before you book your service.
Ask about their sterilization practices, proof of spore testing for their autoclaves, and what materials of jewelry they carry. You can check this information against the safepiercing.org website.
Your piercer themselves should have a portfolio of photos full of well placed piercings that are both fresh and healed showing a broad spectrum of what they offer. Don't be overly concerned if you don't see a certain type of piercing in particular - many piercers have limitations to their offerings for their own reasons. For example, we know colleagues who do not perform tongue, septum, or surface piercings. Don't discount a portfolio lacking those things as "bad piercers", but you may want to select someone who has more of them available for viewing if you are looking to get that service in particular.
2. Have an Idea of What You Would Like
Depending on what studio you're visiting, it may be important to know what piercing you want before your appointment. While we here at Luna offer curation appointments, as well as more open-ended flexibility to those who aren't sure beforehand, some studios may require a solid answer once you hit the front desk.
You can always ask if it's okay when booking your appointment to follow your piercers lead - at studios that aren't as high volume, many of us absolutely love to hear that you're open to suggestions! Don't worry too much about being dialed in on exactly what your dream piece of jewelry is, but if you do have ideas and references, it's always great to have a few with you when you arrive for your appointment!
3. Hydrate and Rest Up
The night before your appointment, make sure to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. This helps your body maintain optimal function. In fact, hydration is one of the most important factors in healing a piercing well! It's important to not arrive hungover, sick, or otherwise unwell.
4. Eat a Light Meal
To prevent dizziness or lightheadedness, it’s a good idea to eat a light meal or snack before your piercing appointment.
At our studio and many alike, snacks and candy are available to those who need them both before and after your visit. This helps stabilize your blood sugar and ensures you won’t feel weak during the process. If you are someone who finds that low blood sugar affects your energy levels or mood, or that you find yourself feeling faint easily, this is the best step you can take to having a good experience.
5. Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of your piercing, especially if you’re getting something on a body part like your navel or a more concealed spot. Clothing that is easy to remove and put on will make the process easier and more comfortable for both you and the piercer. Avoid tight clothing that could rub against the area being pierced, especially in the hours following the procedure. For body piercings especially, we suggest against anything that may accidentally become stained (blood is not the only concern here, as iodine and ink from markers or gentian violet can transfer from the skin!)
6. Prepare and Stay Calm
Piercing appointments can be nerve-wracking, but there are steps you can take to alleviate that worry. Sensory toys, your favorite music in the car on the way, quiet time listening to your breath while you wait, or even your favorite beverage/snack combo before or after your piercing can all help calm your nerves. Additionally, most studios will allow you to bring at least one support person (though COVID has changed the way a lot of studios work - be sure to double check).
If you know you react poorly to certain situations or the sight of needles, even if you have past medical trauma, let your piercer know! We absolutely have ways to reduce those anxieties and are always happy to accommodate any special needs or requests.
Though you're already here, remember the internet can be a scary place. Tiktok, YouTube, and Reddit are full of piercing videos and experiences gone wrong. Those are not what you need to be watching. They are addicting, cringe-worthy, and scary; they paint the absolute worst that can go wrong in the hands of untrained professionals in studios you are not visiting.
7. Bring Identification and Double Check Accepted Payment
Make sure to bring a valid ID (and to avoid shops that have no policy requiring them). Your studio will likely have their ID policy available on their website. If not available, reach out. These policies will likely have more requirements for minors.
Some studios may only accept certain forms of payment, so it’s always a good idea to check ahead. Many studios will have variable totals depending on the jewelry you choose - styles, materials and design choices can be endless in some jewelry cases. Get an idea of what ranges the jewelry falls in, and get a total price.
Most all studios accept tips, and while they are never required/always appreciated, it's good to do some mental math if you do decide you would like to leave one!
*A tip from us to you - many Point of Sales systems give automated tip options that include tipping on the total. While it's fairly normal for us to see clients tipping on the total (going over jewelry with you is a service within itsself!) it's once again, not necessary. There are options available to input your own tip of your choosing.
8. Have Realistic Expectations
Piercing can cause discomfort, but it shouldn't be excruciating. Be aware of healing times and what you need to avoid during different stages of healing. It’s important to follow the aftercare instructions carefully to avoid complications like infection, irritation and migration or tilting of the piercing. Think of visiting your chosen studio like selecting a fancy new restaurant - check the menu, if there is a dress code, and what their reservation policies are. As long as you have the information you need, you're set for success! We hope this helps clients everywhere and when in doubt - call your local friendly piercing studio! We do this every day.
Laura
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