So, you’re all set to make a fashion statement by getting a piercing. But before going under the needle, you need to know about the essential factors surrounding the piercing process. Whether it’s about the right piercing jewelry, healing time, or aftercare, you have a lot of questions about piercing. In this post, we will provide you with answers to some of the frequently asked questions that will help you feel more confident heading into your appointment.
Q: Do you use a needle or piercing gun?
A: We exclusively use needles for our piercings, even for lobes. We use the best needles on the market - they're the sharpest and are coated with silicone to help them glide through the tissue more easily. We only use one needle per piercing so if you are getting 2 piercings, you get 2 needles. There are a number of other reasons why it's better to use needles vs. the gun or "hand pressure device." Check out our blog on that topic here.
Q: Can I be pierced if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
A: Nope! We don't pierce anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding due to the slight risk of infection. It's just not worth it.
Q: Can I bring family and friends with me to my appointment?
A: We have a small studio so we ask clients to keep their numbers down wherever possible. Bringing one or 2 people at most to the appointment would be greatly appreciated. Also, as much as we love our puppies, the studio is not dog-friendly as we keep our space super clean.
Q: Can I bring my own earrings to use as the initial jewelry?
A: As a general rule we do not pierce with jewelry that is not our own. We like to ensure the pieces are the right size, style and metal for each unique client. However sometimes we do make exceptions, but there are criteria the need to be met (i.e. threadless, the right gauge, style and length, made of implant grade titanium or 14k solid gold, etc). We do not pierce with butterfly backs, screw backs or hoops.
Q: How can I best prepare for my appointment?
A: You can best prepare for your appointment by showing up rested and mentally ready. Avoid drinking alcohol the night prior. You can take an NSAID like aspirin or ibuprofin just before the appointment if you are worried about pain, but please avoid drugs like Tylenol (acetaminophen) as they can thin the blood and make the piercing process messy. Please do not apply numbing cream unless you have consulted with us first.
Q: Can you be pierced with a hoop?
A: With the exception of the daith, we will not pierce with a hoop as the initial jewelry. It's best to heal with a straight barbell before switching to a hoop. A hoop rotates freely through the piercing which can cause irritation and infection, prolonging the healing time. Just wait it out. When you're ready to switch to a hoop we will help you choose and install something amazing!
Q: Can I swim with healing piercings?
A: As a general rule, it's not recommended to submerge your head in any body of water during the healing period as that can introduce bacteria into the wound which can lead to infection. However we realize that's unrealistic for many (ourselves included). So, if you must submerge your head, make sure to take extra cleaning precautions after each swim by washing with a gentle soap followed by a thorough spray with sterline saline solution.
Q: Can I shower with the jewelry?
A: Yes! You should not be removing the jewelry during the healing process as that can cause irritation and infection. You also risk not being able to get the jewelry back in, which could cause the piercing to close up.
Q: How to I take care of my piercings?
A: The best product to use is NeilMed sterile saline spray, but any sterile saline wound wash works! You do not need to use alcohol or witch hazel or any other solution on your piercings. After we complete your piercings, we will walk you through the aftercare regime and send you off with a pamphlet to read at your leisure.
Read: 7 Ways to Heal Your Piercings Perfectly
Q: What do I do if I get an infection?
A: First, please consult with us, providing a clear picture or seeing us in person. Then we will recommend a care protocol which usually does not necessitate a trip to the doctor. In rare cases however, you may need to see a doctor.
Q: How old do you have to be to sign your own waiver?
A: In Ontario you must be 16 years or older with valid government-issued photo ID to sign off on your own piercing. We will not pierce anyone who cannot prove they are 16 years or older.
Q: Do you pierce babies?
A: We do not. We only pierce from 5 years and older. We like children to learn bodily autonomy from a young age. The child needs to want the piercing for us to do it. If your child is upset and not willing to get pierced, we will not do it.
Q: How old do you have to be to get a cartilage piercing?
A: This question is a bit subjective as it depends on the maturity level of the child and the willingness of the parent(s) to provide a signed waiver. Usually we do not pierce the cartilage of anyone under the age of 13.
Read: Essential Guide to Cartilage Piercing
Q: How long do piercings take to heal?
A: As a rule of thumb, cartilage takes on average 6-12 months to heal and lobes 2-3 months. The healing time can vary from person to person, depending on your body’s immune system and how well you follow the aftercare routine. Therefore, patience is the key when it comes to cartilage piercing, and you should avoid touching, twisting or turning and sleeping on the jewelry during the healing time.
Read: Boost your Immune System and Heal Your Piercings Faster
Q: What material and gauge do you pierce with?
A: We exclusively pierce with implant grade titanium and 14k solid gold. We use 16 gauge for ear piercings and 18 gauge for nostril piercings.
Q: How much does a piercing cost?
A: Our pricing starts at $70 CAD for a single piercing with basic implant grade titanium jewelry. You have the option to upgrade to more interesting titanium or solid gold pieces when you come for your appointment.
Q: What type of jewelry do you use for piercing?
A: We choose the right type of jewelry for your anatomy and for the piercing type. A curved barbell, captive bead ring, or barbell with a flat back (labret) is suitable for the initial jewelry for the piercing depending on the location. Ie. we use an 8mm or 10mm long curved barbell for the initial jewelry for a rook piercing. We also only use implant grade titanium and 14k solid gold to prevent an allergic reaction.
Q: What are the risks of getting pierced?
A: As with any wound, piercings carry a risk of infection, swelling, piercing bumps and rejection (the body pushing out the piercing as it heals). In rare cases, the piercing can get infected, and you may have to visit a doctor. So, it’s essential to take proper care of your piercing during the healing time. Regular cleaning and maintaining good hygiene can prevent infection and other complications. At The Curated Lobe, we take great care to ensure your piercing process is as sterile as possible - starting with using an Autoclave to sterilize your jewelry to adhering to strict protocols within the piercing area before, during and after the piercing.
Q: Can I sleep on my piercing?
A: It’s not recommended to sleep on a new piercing. Sleeping on the pierced ear can cause additional pressure and tension, leading to unnecessary swelling, and prolonging the time it takes to heal. This is especially important for cartilage piercings as even 1 hour sleeping on a piercing while the bar is long can cause the angle to shift. This makes the jewelry look wonky and is unable to be rectified. During the healing process, you can and should use a piercing pillow to rest your ear comfortably.
Piercings are a bold and fashionable statement. However, it’s crucial to know about the essential factors surrounding the piercing. This blog post provides you answers to some of the common questions about getting your ears pierced at The Curated Lobe. If you can't be pierced by us, choose a reputable and professional piercing studio with quality materials, expert piercers and stellar reviews. Remember to take proper and consistent care of your piercing during the healing time. If you’re considering cartilage piercing, embrace the (temporary) pain, and showcase your unique style!
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