What Type of Jewelry Do Piercers Use? A Piercing Pro’s Perspective

The world of body piercing is a fascinating blend of art, science, and self-expression. A crucial element in achieving a successful and aesthetically pleasing piercing is the jewelry. Piercers don’t just grab any shiny object; they use specific types of jewelry designed for biocompatibility, healing, and safety. Generally, piercers prioritize materials like implant-grade titanium, surgical stainless steel, solid 14k or 18k gold (nickel-free), niobium, and glass for initial piercings. These materials are chosen for their inert nature, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions, infections, and complications during the crucial healing process.

Diving Deeper into Material Choices

Let’s break down these material choices and why they reign supreme in the professional piercing world.

Implant-Grade Titanium: The Gold Standard

Think of implant-grade titanium as the superhero of piercing jewelry. It’s incredibly strong, lightweight, and, most importantly, highly biocompatible. This means it’s less likely to react with the body’s tissues, making it an excellent choice for even the most sensitive individuals. The term “implant-grade” is vital because it signifies that the titanium meets specific ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards for use inside the human body. Look for ASTM F-136 titanium to ensure you’re getting the real deal.

Surgical Stainless Steel: A Reliable Option

Surgical stainless steel, specifically 316L or 316LVM, is another commonly used material. It’s more affordable than titanium but still offers good biocompatibility. However, it does contain a small amount of nickel. While the nickel is generally tightly bound within the steel, individuals with known nickel allergies might experience a reaction. Choosing high-quality surgical steel from reputable suppliers minimizes this risk. Always confirm the type of surgical steel with your piercer.

Solid Gold (14k or 18k): Luxury with Responsibility

Solid 14k or 18k gold can be a stunning and safe option, provided it is nickel-free. The higher karat indicates a greater purity of gold and, therefore, less of other potentially reactive metals. Gold alloys below 14k are often mixed with a significant amount of nickel, making them unsuitable for initial piercings. Ensure your piercer can provide documentation confirming the gold’s karat and nickel content. Gold-plated or gold-filled jewelry is a definite no-go for fresh piercings, as the plating can wear off, exposing the base metal and potentially causing irritation.

Niobium: A Titanium Alternative

Niobium is another biocompatible metal that’s often compared to titanium. It’s hypoallergenic and can be anodized to create a variety of vibrant colors without the use of dyes or coatings that could chip or flake off. Niobium offers a good alternative for those who want a different aesthetic without sacrificing safety.

Glass: Specifically Borosilicate or Soda-Lime

Borosilicate or soda-lime glass is safe for piercings, provided it is specifically formulated for this purpose. The key is that the glass must be lead-free and free of other harmful additives. It is typically used for stretching piercings because of its smooth and non-porous surface.

Jewelry Styles and Their Applications

Beyond the material, the style of jewelry plays a crucial role in healing and comfort.

Barbells: Straight and Curved

Barbells, both straight and curved, are fundamental. Straight barbells are common for tongue piercings, nipple piercings, and industrial piercings. Curved barbells are often used in eyebrow piercings, rook piercings, and daith piercings. The length of the barbell is crucial to accommodate swelling during the initial healing phase.

Labret Studs: Flat-Backed Versatility

Labret studs, with their flat disc backings, are excellent for lip piercings, earlobe piercings, and many cartilage piercings. The flat back prevents the jewelry from sinking into the tissue and provides a comfortable fit.

Captive Bead Rings (CBRs): Classic and Versatile

Captive bead rings (CBRs) are hoops with a bead held in place by the ring’s tension. They are commonly used in ear, nose, and genital piercings. The bead can be made of various materials, adding to the aesthetic appeal.

Circular Barbells: A Horseshoe Shape

Circular barbells resemble horseshoes and are versatile for various piercings, including septum, ear, and lip piercings. The open ends of the horseshoe allow for swelling and movement.

Threading Types: Internal vs. External

Finally, the threading of the jewelry matters. Internally threaded jewelry is preferred as the threaded part is located inside the hollow shaft of the barbell. This design prevents the threads from scraping the piercing as the jewelry is inserted, minimizing irritation. Externally threaded jewelry, where the threads are on the outside of the shaft, is generally considered lower quality and can cause discomfort.

FAQs About Piercing Jewelry

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the nuances of piercing jewelry:

1. Can I use sterling silver for a new piercing?

No, sterling silver is not recommended for initial piercings. Sterling silver tarnishes due to oxidation, and this process can irritate the piercing. The other metals mixed with the silver can also cause reactions.

2. How important is the jewelry’s gauge size?

Extremely important! The gauge refers to the thickness of the jewelry. Using the correct gauge is essential for comfort, stability, and proper healing. A piercer will select the appropriate gauge based on the piercing location and your anatomy.

3. What does “biocompatible” really mean?

Biocompatible means that the material is chemically inert and does not cause a harmful reaction within the body. It minimizes the risk of allergies, irritation, and rejection.

4. How long should I wait before changing my initial piercing jewelry?

It depends on the piercing. Generally, you should wait until the piercing is fully healed before changing the jewelry. This can range from several weeks to several months, depending on the location. Your piercer can advise you on when it’s safe to change.

5. Can I use acrylic jewelry for a new piercing?

No, acrylic jewelry is not suitable for initial piercings. Acrylic is porous and can harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. It’s also not biocompatible.

6. What’s the difference between 316L and 316LVM surgical steel?

316LVM (Vacuum Melt) is a higher grade of surgical steel that has been refined through a vacuum melting process. This process reduces impurities and makes it even more biocompatible than standard 316L.

7. My piercing is itchy. Is it infected?

Itchiness can be a sign of irritation or the beginning stages of healing. However, it could also indicate an infection or allergic reaction. Look for other signs like redness, swelling, pus, and pain. If you suspect an infection, consult your piercer or a doctor immediately.

8. Can I clean my piercing with alcohol?

No, alcohol is too harsh and can dry out the skin, hindering the healing process. Use a sterile saline solution recommended by your piercer.

9. What is anodization and why is it used on titanium and niobium?

Anodization is an electrochemical process that creates a thin oxide layer on the surface of titanium and niobium. This layer can be tinted in various colors without the use of dyes, making the jewelry more visually appealing and even more biocompatible.

10. Is it okay to buy piercing jewelry online?

Buying piercing jewelry online can be risky. You can’t be sure of the material quality or the supplier’s reliability. It’s best to purchase jewelry from your piercer or a reputable supplier recommended by them.

11. What should I look for in a reputable piercer?

Look for a piercer who:

• Is licensed and certified.
• Works in a clean and sterile environment.
• Uses high-quality, biocompatible jewelry.
• Is knowledgeable about piercing aftercare.
• Is willing to answer your questions and address your concerns.

12. My piercing has a bump. What should I do?

A bump near a piercing could be several things, including an irritation bump, a hypertrophic scar, or a keloid. Avoid touching or picking at the bump. Continue cleaning the piercing as directed by your piercer. If the bump persists or worsens, consult your piercer for advice.

Choosing the right jewelry is essential for a safe and successful piercing experience. By understanding the materials, styles, and proper aftercare, you can ensure your piercing heals beautifully and lasts a lifetime. Always consult with a qualified and experienced piercer for personalized advice and guidance.