There's plenty of ways to get a piercing, but you already knew that. What shocks us most is just how many subcategories are out there. Take the simple ear piercing for example, it has 11 different ways. Everything from the snug piercing to the daith piercing, and that's just the mid-ear we're talking about. Then there's facial piercings which sees people bedazzle their eyebrows, their lips and even cheekbones. But how can you pierce your body we hear you ask? Well, you guessed it, in a number of ways. If you're looking to expand your collection of embedded jewels or you're just curious, keep scrolling for our guide on everything you need to know on body piercings.
What are the different types of piercings?
It is by no means a small area and this means there's plenty of space to work with, but a word of warning - don't see the large surface area as a reason to get carried away. The skin on the body takes longer to heal and there are more more nerve endings involved than elsewhere so expect more sensitivity and pain. These surface piercings may also run the risk of rejection or migration, which is never a pleasant thing. That being said, these are body piercings worth noting...
What to expect at your piercing appointment
This will really depend on which type of body piercing you opt for, some areas require a double puncture, others a single, some will need a gauge needle and others a dermal punch. But generally speaking, the area will first be analysed by your piercing professional to determine suitability, then be cleaned and marked up with a skin-safe pen. The piercing will be made and followed immediately by your jewellery of choice.
How much do body piercings hurt?
From what we've gathered, a considerable amount, especially in comparison to other piercings like that of the ear. Overall, areas from the neck down have more nerve endings and are often more sensitive and more susceptible to pain (that includes genital and nipple piercings), but then again other areas can be milder in pain levels like belly button piercings because there is more tissue around the area.
Healing and aftercare
Healing times differ between different types of piercings but generally these areas require more healing time and they may also have a risk of rejection or migration – not pretty stuff. With the risks involved, you'll want to pay close attention to aftercare which is similar that involved with other piercings.
The rule of thumb is to do a saline soak twice daily and gently remove any build up round the area, then pat dry with a clean paper towel. Other than that, be mindful not to irritate the area with excessive touching, prodding and probing.
How much do body piercings cost?
Again, this will depend on what you opt for. Maria Tash, located in Liberty London, charges £35 for a navel or nipple piercing, and £75 for a dermal or surface piercing. Though, the rates really depend on where you are based in the UK and the studio you opt for.