Thank you for considering us for your child's piercing needs

Claire's, Piercing Pagoda, and even artists passing themselves off as traditional studios are still using piercing guns or "hand-press devices". These use the jewelry as the piercing "needle" and force it through with pressure. Not only is this more painful than other methods, it's also very damaging and difficult to heal. We recommend avoiding shops that use these.

There are also studios that use cannula-style needles. These are long needles with a plastic sheath over them that are traditionally used for IV management and blood draws in hospitals. These are not ideal because they are not designed for the purpose of piercing. The plastic sheath around the needle is forced through the piercing channel similar to the jewelry in a piercing gun, which can be very uncomfortable. The tearing caused by the cannula can also delay and complicate the healing process.

Professionals have refined the piercing process and now use what we call "blade"-style needles. These needles are precise, sharp, and do not include anything that must be shoved through the piercing channel by force. They are the least painful option available today and they heal with much less issue.

We only use high-quality, implant-grade jewelry specifically designed for safe, long-term wear in healing piercings. This means every piece meets strict standards for biocompatibility, surface finish, and overall safety. We never use jewelry with butterfly backs (often found in mall kiosks or fashion stores), as these can trap bacteria and interfere with healing.

The jewelry we offer comes from trusted, professional piercing manufacturers like Neometal, Junipurr, and similar industry leaders. These companies produce jewelry from materials such as ASTM F-136 implant-grade titanium or solid 14k/18k gold, with precision-polished surfaces to minimize irritation and promote smoother healing.

It's important to be cautious of low-cost jewelry options that might look appealing but lack quality control. Inconsistent surface finishes and poorly set gems can create added opportunities to cause complications in the healing process. Choosing the right jewelry from the start makes a huge difference in the healing and long-term success of your child’s piercing. We’re happy to walk you through our options and explain why they’re safe, comfortable, and worth the investment.

 A professional piercing studio should follow hospital-grade sterilization procedures to protect every client, especially minors. Tools and jewelry should be sterilized in an autoclave, a device that uses high-pressure steam to kill bacteria, viruses, and spores. Studios should also use ultrasonic cleaners to remove debris before sterilization and should never reuse needles (they should be single-use and disposed of immediately after each piercing). It's completely appropriate for you to ask to see the studio’s sterilization equipment or logs. A good studio will welcome the opportunity to show how they prioritize hygiene.

If the studio hesitates to explain their process or uses vague terms like “we clean everything,” that’s a red flag. Proper sterilization isn’t optional. 

Professional piercers should be certified in Bloodborne Pathogens training, which ensures they understand how to prevent the spread of infections like hepatitis or HIV. This is especially important when working with children, who may be more vulnerable to complications. CPR and first aid training are also great credentials to look for, showing the piercer is prepared to respond safely in any situation.

Ask the studio if their team keeps current with certifications, as BBP training needs to be renewed annually. Don’t hesitate to request proof, as a responsible studio won’t be offended. In fact, many are proud to share their qualifications and happy to see that you care about your child’s health and safety.

A professional studio should have clear policies in place that prioritize the well-being of young clients. This includes verifying the identity and relationship of the parent or legal guardian, requiring proper documentation such as government-issued ID and a birth certificate, and only offering age-appropriate piercings. But beyond paperwork, a good studio will also take time to assess your child’s maturity, understanding of the healing process, and ability to follow aftercare instructions. If your child seems unsure or uncomfortable, they should never be pressured. An ethical studio will always put the individual’s consent and comfort first.

Most professional piercers welcome a parent or guardian to stay in the room during the procedure, especially when working with minors. Your presence can be reassuring for your child and helps create a supportive atmosphere. A good piercer will walk your child through each step of the process in an age-appropriate way, making sure they feel informed and empowered. If your child becomes too nervous or decides they are not ready, the studio should respect that decision without hesitation.