Piercings are a popular form of self-expression, with people of all ages and genders seeking to adorn their bodies with jewelry. From simple earlobe piercings to more complex designs, piercings can enhance one’s beauty and individuality; however, how piercings are done matters greatly in terms of their safety, healing time, and overall outcome. In this article, we will discuss the truth about piercing guns, which are often used by inexperienced piercers and in non-professional settings. We will explain why piercing-guns are risky and outdated and why you should avoid them at all costs.
What are piercing guns, and how do they work?
Handheld devices use a spring-loaded mechanism to force a blunt earring stud through the skin. Unlike piercing needles, which create a clean puncture and minimize tissue damage, piercing- guns create a lot of trauma to the surrounding tissue, leading to excessive bleeding, scarring, and infection. This can also use pre-sterilized earrings that are often made of low-quality metals, such as nickel or brass, which can cause allergic reactions and irritation. It is easy to use and require minimal training, which is why they are often used by mall kiosks, beauty salons, and even some doctors’ offices.
What are the risks of using piercing guns?
The risks of using guns are numerous and severe. First and foremost, it can cause significant tissue damage and pain, as the blunt force of the stud can tear through the skin, cartilage, and nerves. This can lead to swelling, bleeding, and infection, which can delay healing and cause scarring. Additionally, they cannot be properly sterilized between uses, which means that they can harbor bacteria and viruses that can be transmitted from one person to another. Moreover, piercing guns often use pre-sterilized earrings unsuitable for all skin types, which can cause allergic reactions, keloids, and other complications. Finally, piercing-guns do not allow for proper placement and angle control, which can result in uneven or crooked piercings that cannot be corrected easily.
Why are piercing needles better than piercing guns?
Piercing needles are the preferred method of piercing among professional piercers and for good reason. Piercing needles are single-use, sterile, and hollow, creating a clean puncture that minimizes tissue trauma and bleeding. Piercing needles also allow for precise placement and angle control, ensuring the piercing is straight, even, and comfortable. Piercing needles come in various sizes, accommodating different body parts and jewelry types. Moreover, piercing needles are made of high-quality metals, such as surgical steel or titanium, which are safe, hypoallergenic, and long-lasting.
What should you look for in a professional piercer?
If you want to get a piercing, it’s important to choose a professional piercer who follows strict safety standards and uses piercing needles. Here are some things to look for in a professional piercer:
Certification:
Look for a piercer who is certified by a reputable piercing organization, such as the Association of Professional Piercers (APP).
Experience:
Choose a piercer who has years of experience in piercing and can show you a portfolio of their work.
Sterilization:
Ensure that the piercer uses sterile equipment, such as disposable gloves, sterilized needles, and autoclave machines.
Communication:
Ensure the piercer listens to your needs and concerns and explains the piercing process, aftercare, and potential risks.
Reputation:
Check the piercer’s reviews, referrals, and social media presence to see if they have a good reputation and happy clients.
Why should you avoid getting pierced at mall kiosks or beauty salons?
Getting pierced at mall kiosks or beauty salons that use this can be risky. While these places may seem convenient and affordable, they often lack the necessary safety measures and expertise required for safe and successful piercings. Mall kiosks and beauty salons may use unsterilized equipment, such as reusable guns, which can harbor bacteria and viruses, leading to infections, diseases, and other complications. Moreover, the piercers who work at these places may have minimal training and experience in piercing, which can result in poor quality piercings, incorrect placement, and increased risks of pain, scarring, and other issues.
What are some aftercare tips for piercings?
After getting a piercing, taking good care of it is crucial to ensure proper healing and prevent infections. Here are some aftercare tips for piercings:
- Clean the piercing site twice a day with a saline solution or a mild soap and warm water.
- Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands or objects.
- Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and other water activities for at least two weeks.
- Avoid sleeping on the piercing site.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing or jewelry that can irritate the piercing.
- Eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated to boost your immune system.
- Follow the piercer’s instructions for aftercare and check-ups.
What are some common piercing myths and misconceptions?
Many myths and misconceptions surrounding piercings can confuse and mislead people. Here are some common piercing myths and misconceptions:
- Piercing guns are safer and less painful than piercing needles. False. It can cause more pain, trauma, and complications than piercing needles, which are designed to minimize tissue damage and discomfort.
- Piercings always get infected. False. While infections can happen, they are not inevitable and can be prevented with proper aftercare and hygiene.
- Piercings can’t be removed once they are done. False. Piercings can be removed at any time, although some may leave a scar or require medical attention.
- Piercings can’t be done on certain body parts. False. Piercings can be done on almost any body part, although some may require more skill, experience, and healing time than others.
- Piercings are only for young and rebellious people. False. Piercings can be a form of self-expression and beauty at any age and stage of life and can enhance one’s confidence and individuality.
FAQs
Q: Are piercing guns cheaper than piercing needles?
A: It may seem cheaper than piercing needles, but they often come with hidden costs, such as the risk of infections, complications, and poor-quality piercings that may require medical attention and further expenses.
Q: Can piercing guns be sterilized?
A: No, It cannot be properly sterilized, as they have many parts that cannot be disassembled and cleaned thoroughly, which can lead to cross-contamination and infections.
Q: How long does it take for a piercing to heal?
A: The healing time for a piercing depends on several factors, such as the type and location of the piercing, the person’s health and immune system, and the aftercare routine. Generally, it takes about 4-12 weeks for earlobe piercings, 6-12 months for cartilage piercings, and 6-18 months for navel, nipple, and genital piercings to heal completely. However, healing times may vary and some people may experience delayed healing, infections, or other complications that can prolong the process.
Q: Can I change my jewelry during the healing process?
A: It’s not recommended to change your jewelry during the healing process, as it can disrupt the healing process, cause irritation, and increase the risk of infections. You should wait until the piercing is fully healed before changing your jewelry, and make sure to use sterile and high-quality jewelry that fits properly and doesn’t cause discomfort or allergic reactions.
Q: Can I bring my own jewelry to a piercing studio?
A: It’s not recommended to bring your own jewelry to a piercing studio, as the piercer may not be able to guarantee its quality, compatibility, and sterility. Moreover, the studio may have strict policies and regulations regarding jewelry selection and use and may provide you with appropriate and safe jewelry for your piercing. If you have specific jewelry preferences or requirements, you should discuss them with the piercer before getting the piercing done.
Q: What should I do if my piercing gets infected?
A: If you suspect that your piercing is infected, you should seek medical attention from a healthcare provider or a piercing professional as soon as possible. Symptoms of infection may include redness, swelling, pain, discharge, fever, and chills. To prevent infections, you should follow proper aftercare and hygiene practices, avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands or objects, and avoid exposing it to dirty water, sweat, or makeup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, They are not safe or recommended methods for getting a piercing. Piercing needles are the preferred and professional way of piercing, as they minimize tissue damage, reduce infection risks, and allow for precise placement and angle control. If you’re considering getting a piercing, make sure to choose a certified and experienced piercer who uses sterile equipment and follows proper safety standards. Take good care of your piercing after getting it done, and avoid common myths and misconceptions about piercings. Doing so lets you enjoy a safe, beautiful, and meaningful piercing that reflects your personality and style.
