This Is How To Tell If A Piercing Is Infected

New piercings are exciting, but it’s not unusual for a client to return a few days later in a panic because they think it’s infected. Most of the time it’s not, and it’s just the piercing healing naturally. The symptoms of healing and infection are similar, so confusion is common. It’s always best to check with your piercer first if you’re concerned about infected, but here’s how to judge if it’s infected or not.

Timeline

Depending on the piercing location and style, it can take weeks if not months for it to fully heal. But most piercings look “healed” before they actually are. For roughly 24-72 hours after a piercing, you will experience redness, soreness, irritation, and swelling at the sight of the piercing. This is completely normal and isn’t any cause for concern.

A sign of infection is if these symptoms get worse as times goes on or if they linger for a while. A good idea is to keep an eye on the piercing, noting if the swelling or redness spreads or increases. Take pictures if possible to keep track of it.

While swelling is perfectly normal, it can be dangerous if it gets too bad. Swelling can cause loss of function. Excessive swelling isn’t always a sign of infection though. It could be that your piercing is too small, and just needs to be replaced with a larger one until it heals. Return to your piercer if the swelling becomes too painful or uncomfortable.

Discomfort the day of or the day after a piercing is normal. It generally takes a day or more of signs of infection to even develop. Old piercings are also unlikely to get infected unless there has been a recent injury to is.

Symptoms

Part of the reasons it’s hard for people to determine if their piercing is infected is because the symptoms of infection are similar to how a fresh piercing heals. That’s why it’s important to not look at the symptoms in isolation. Here are the most common symptoms of infection though:

·            Redness (especially if it gets worse or spreads)

o   A new piercing may be red or pinkish for a few days. If the redness gets worse or starts spreading keep an eye on it for other symptoms of infection.

·            Swelling

o   Some swelling is normal, but it should subside after a couple of days. If the swelling gets worse or appears suddenly it could be an infection.

·            Pain

o   Your new piercing will be sensitive and sore for a few days. If you notice the pain lingering or getting worse this is a symptom of infection. However, if you have recently snagged or irritated your piercing, this could also be a cause.

·            Heat

o   Infected piercings may feel inflamed or hot to the touch. If you touch your piercing be sure to wash your hands first.

·            Discharge and pus

o   Some oozing is perfectly normal, and part of the natural healing process. Clear or straw-colored fluid is normal, but is the discharge is thick, whitish or colored (like yellow or green), or smelly it might be infected.

Location

Some areas of the body are more prone to infection than others. Your professional piercer will let you know this at the time of the piercing. Navel (belly button) and tongue piercing shave a higher risk of infection.

Belly button piercings are more prone for a few reasons. First, they’re in touch-prone locations. The belly button is constantly rubbing up against clothing and other objects, which introduce bacteria to the area. Belly buttons are also warm, and sometimes damp, places, which increase the risk of infection.

Tongue piercings are especially prone to infection. Your mouth is full of bacteria, which is a big cause. Tongue infections are especially serious. Complications can cause tongue numbness or even brain infections.

Avoiding Infections

The good news is that infections aren’t as common as people suspect. They’re also extremely easy to avoid. After you get your new piercing, your piercer will go over proper aftercare instructions. Make sure you listen and follow them. Different piercings have different cleaning requirements, so don’t assume you know what to do. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions either. Even if you think it’s a dumb question, we’d rather you ask.

Aftercare isn’t just about how to clean your piercings. It’s also about how to generally take care of it. For example, you should avoid sleeping on it, wearing clothing that may catch it, touching it with unwashed hands, or removing the piercing.

Another way to avoid an infection is to go to a reputable piercer. Never go to a Claire’s or mall piercer. These people aren’t properly trained, and the equipment they use often isn’t properly cleaned. Trained piercers work out of licensed studios. Most tattoo shops in Toronto have professional piercers that work in the studio.

Getting Help

So what should you do if you think your piercing is infected? A lot of places will tell you to go to a doctor, but the first person you should see if your piercer. Doctors, while trained professionals aren’t that great at telling if a piercing is infected. They often recommend just removing the piercing which can be bad. Removing an infected piercing can make things worse. It can trap the infection, rather than heal it.

Visit your piercer, or another professional piercer, first. These people are trained in piercers and can quickly tell you what to do. They’ll tell you whether you should see a doctor, how to clear it up, and whether or not you should remove it.

Conclusion

If you have any more questions or want to learn more about what piercers we offer at our downtown Toronto tattoo shop, please contact us. We’d love to hear from you and set up an appointment.

How To Prepare For A New Piercing

Piercings aren’t as serious or permanent as tattoos, but there is still some preparations that should be taken before you sit down in the chair. No matter what piercing you’re getting, here’s what you need to know to get ready for your new piercing.

Research Ahead of Time

Before going in for a piercing, it’s a good idea to always do some research. Safety and cleanliness are what you should be looking for. Make sure it is a licensed studio and your piercer is a professional. It’s a good idea to make sure they do the piercing you want ahead of time too.

Drink Water and Get Sleep

When you get a piercing, you’re introducing a foreign object to the body and causing trauma to it. The body will work to heal itself, which requires it to work harder than normal. Being hydrated and well rested will help your body do its job.

Sick, Stay At Home

If you’re sick, it’s okay to reschedule your appointment. Being healthy is important to proper healing. Plus, when you come in sick you expose others to the illness, especially your piercer who is likely working close to your face. Be considerate and stay home if you’re sick.

Disclose Medical Conditions

Toronto tattoo shops and piercers don’t need a full medical history, but have certain medical conditions should be disclosed. Some conditions may even need a doctor’s note before you can get piercer. Medical conditions like blood disorders or heart conditions should be disclosed, simply so your piercer can take extra precautions if necessary. Just because you have a medical condition doesn’t mean you can’t get piercer. We just want to ensure everyone’s safety involved.

Bring ID

Tattoo shops in Toronto require valid government ID before doing any piercings or tattoos. Certain piercings have legal age restrictions on them. Anyone under the age of 16 needs parental consent to anything more than a love piercing, and nipple and genital piercings will absolutely only be given to people over 18, regardless of if they have their parent’s consent or not.

Leave Plenty of Time

Arrive a few minutes before your scheduled appointment so that you have time to select your jewelry and ask any questions. After the piercing is done your piercer will chat with you and go over aftercare tips. Being rushed just makes everyone stressed, so have plenty of time.

Prepare Mentally

Piercings are quick and pretty painless (other than some initial discomfort), but if you’re squeamish prepare mentally ahead of time. Bring along a friend or two for emotional support too if you need it.

Hair and Clothing

Hair should be kept out of the way, especially for facial piercings. Long hair can get tangled in them, which can be painful if they’re new. Clothing should be loose and avoid wearing anything that could rub against or get caught in your new piercing.

Come Sober

We legally cannot piercer anyone that is intoxicated, and even if we could we wouldn’t. Alcohol thins the blood, which can lead to more bleeding during a piercing. There’s also the chance that you’ll be a drunken fool and accidentally harm your new piercing. So arrive sober, or leave without a new piercing.

Please Come Clean

We shouldn’t have to say this, but please come clean. Wash, shower, and groom ahead of time, please. We also recommend doing any shaving because it may not be possible while the piercing heals.

Aftercare

Aftercare is the most important step for a new piercing. Your piercer will go through it all with you but it’s up to you to follow it. Keep the area clean, and avoid touching it. If you think it’s infected, come back to the original piercer to get their advice.

Nape Piercings 101

Just like tattoos, piercings have fads and trends too. The latest one has been big in Asia and Europe for a few years, but now it’s made its way here. Nape piercings are the hottest piercing trend right now and it’s expected to get even bigger this summer.

Location

As the name implies, the nape piercing is located on the back of the neck, of the nape. The area is pretty large, so people can decide exactly where on the nape they want the piercing to be. Some people get one other go for two or more. Whether you want a single one centered, them stacked or side-by-side, it’s completely up to you.

Design

There’s not one design for nape piercings. The most popular styles are to have a single piercing centered in the neck, or double piercings side by side.

Pain

Pain is always a valid concern for people. Dermal piercings do hurt more than regular ones, but not by much. People who have gotten nape piercings before say the pain is pretty mild.

Piercer and Aftercare

You should always go to a trained professional piercer that knows how to do dermal piercings. There is a higher chance of infection with dermal piercings and the neck has its own risks being so close to the spine and head. Concerns of paralysis aren’t necessary unless you’re going to someone untrained.

Make sure you follow all aftercare advice. Snagging is a big issue with the nape location so be mindful of hair and clothing. Healing could take between two to six months, so keep it clean until it’s healed.

Contact us with any question or concerns or stop by our downtown Toronto shop to get a nape piercing today.

Questions You’re Too Scared to Ask About Vagina Piercings

Piercings may no longer be taboo, but some are still shrouded in mystery. Genital piercings, and particularly vagina piercings, aren’t discussed as openly or freely as ear, nose, or lip piercings. The area is far more intimate, and some women may be afraid to ask certain questions. Fear not, we’ve answered all the questions you’re too scared to ask about female genital piercings.

What types of piercings are there?
Professionals use the term “vagina” piercings, but vulva would probably be more accurate. There are tons of different types of piercings out there- vertical and horizontal clitoris piercings, inner and outer labia piercings, and also fourchette and Christina piercings. It ultimately comes down to a women’s anatomy to determine which piercings work best.

How do I find the right piercer?
It’s a lot harder to find a good piercer when it comes to vagina piercings. It’s not like professional piercers can advertise that sort of work on their Instagram. Many of them only have images of that type of work in their portfolios in the shop. Read some reviews, ask friends, and once you’ve found a reputable piercer ask what sort of vagina piercings they’ve done before.

Will it bleed?
Not a ton, but if you rip it out that’s a whole other story.

How old do I have to be?
In Ontario, a person needs to be 18 years or older to get genital or nipple piercings. Even if a person has parental permission, this sort of piercing can’t be given to anyone under 18.

Do I need to shave before?
Nope, piercers are able to work with whatever hair you have down there.

How much does it hurt?
Of course, it hurts, but the pain isn’t unimaginable. Most people find the pressure put on the skin before the needle goes in to be the most painful part of the process.

Will it increase sensitivity?
Some people say it does for them. The piercing may add some spice to your sex life, but it won’t necessarily increase sensitivity to the area. What happens is the piercings increase stimulation to the area.

What aftercare is there?
Trust us, you’ll want to make sure any piercing near your vagina is well taken care of. Luckily it comes with a pretty good self-cleaning system. Some warm water and soap are all it needs. Ask your piercing for a complete list of aftercare tips.

How long until I can have sex again?
Everyone heals at different rates, but piercers say it’s important to wait until it’s healed. Of course, in reality, most people don’t want to wait months. Be careful, avoid touching it with hands as much as possible, and if anything hurts stop immediately.

What about if I get pregnant?
Pregnancy doesn’t impact piercings usually. Most doctors will require patients to remove vagina piercings before giving birth so that nothing gets caught or torn during delivery. If it starts to feel uncomfortable when you’re pregnant take it out, but most women don’t notice pregnancy impacting it.

Contact us if you’re interested in a vaginal piercing!

Constellation Piercings 101

We talk a lot about tattoo trends, but piercings have their own trends in styles too. The last year has seen a huge boom in on particular style- constellation piercings. This style allows for creativity and individuality as people cultivate their own unique cluster of piercings on their ears. Here is everything you need to know about this piercing trend.

Style
Constellation piercings are basically an artful cluster of piercings on the ear. The multiple piercings allow people to go as simple or as creative as they want. Having multiple ear piercings have been a trend for a while, but it’s only recently that it’s gotten the starry name and taken off. It’s a fresh modern take on multiple ear piercings that really is unique to each person.

Location
Part of the reason people love constellation piercings is that they can be anywhere on the ear. For those that don’t want multiple cartilage piercings, having the option for a cool lobe-piercing trend is exciting. The cluster can be anywhere, whether you want it on the earlobe, the cartilage, the inner ear, or up the entire ear, it’s up to you.

Jewelry
The great thing about this trend is that it can be tailored to your ear shape and sense of style. Most people have been opting for smaller, daintier piercings that give an understated minimalist look. Other’s are going for statement shapes like stars, moons, and crosses. People can use any mix of jewelry, such as studs, shapes, rings, and bars, for constellation piercings.

Design
There are endless possibilities and combinations for constellation piercings. Just like the starry constellations, the piercing is named after, each piercing helps create an image. A popular lobe constellation design is a triangle arrangement where three piercings are close together. A more classic one is a linear design where the piercings go up the ear. You can add dimension to the design by alternating between longer rings and shorter studs for a staggering height.

Timeline
There’s no set timeline, but most professional piercers don’t recommend getting a ton of piercings done at once. It can make it harder to heal with all the swelling. Sleeping and other normal tasks may also be uncomfortable with multiple new piercings. It’s best to build them up one at a time.

Pain
How much a piercing hurts depends on where it’s done. Lobe piercings generally tend to hurt the least, while cartilage and inner ear ones hurt more. The good news is that pain from piercings is brief.

Conclusion
Constellation piercings look like a trend that will last awhile. Make sure you always take care of your new piercings my following proper aftercare advice. If you’re interested in getting a new piercing, or a tattoo, contact us or visit our downtown Toronto tattoo shop!.

Everything You Need To Know About Pregnancy and Piercings

Piercers get asked all the time how pregnancy will affect piercings. Certain piercing locations, such as facial ones, usually aren’t affected. Other places will be impacted. Everyone experienced different changes during pregnancy so some individuals have issues while others don’t. You should always contact your specific piercer if you have any issues but here a few things to keep in mind about piercings and pregnancy.

Belly Button Piercings

It should come as no surprise to anyone that the stomach is what changes the most during pregnancy. What this means for piercings is that as the baby grows and the stomach expands belly button piercings will probably have to be removed. Not only will the area become tight and uncomfortable, but even innie belly buttons become outies.

The good new is that they make special large plastic curved barbell piercings for pregnancy. They are flexible so they bend easily and can be worn during ultrasound appointments. Some women opt to just remove their piercings altogether during pregnancy, which is an option too.

Nipple Piercings

Nipple piercings are also affected by pregnancy. They don’t always have to be removed but the breasts become larger and more sensitive during pregnancy. Piercings here can become uncomfortable.

During breastfeeding, nipple piercings do have to be removed. A piercing can cause the baby to have trouble latching, they may damage their mouths, and there’s always the risk of the jewelry choking them. Some women remove the piercings only when feeding and then put them back in. This is an option but the nipples may become sore and the piercings have to be kept very clean when removed to avoid infection. The piercings may close if removed but can easily be re-pierced later on.

Genital Piercings

Genital piercings may be affected depending on where they are. Clitoral ones usually aren’t a problem except for slight discomfort at times when the area becomes swollen. Most doctors do require all genital piercings to be removed when it comes time to giving birth. This is done to limit the risk to the baby and yourself as it could get caught on the baby or the area could tear during birth.

New Piercings

No doctor, piercer, or tattoo artist recommends getting any new ink or piercing while pregnant or breastfeeding. In fact, most tattoo shops will refuse. Even when carefully done there is a risk of infection. They body runs harder during pregnancy making the immune system compromised. It’s best to wait for you and your child until you have given birth and the child is weaned.

Conclusion

Piercings during pregnancy really depend on the individual. If you experience any discomfort it’s best to remove them. Even if the holes close they can always be re-pierced later. If you have any questions feel free to contact a Toronto Tattoo Shop. 

Oral Piercing Types

Tongue and mouth piercings have been gaining popularity recently. They are still far more taboo and out there compared to other piercings (like the ears, nose, and lip). But if you’re looking for an oral piercing here are all the options available.

Tongue Piercings

Tongue Piercing

The most common oral piercing is the standard tongue piercing. It’s also known as the midline tongue piercing since it is placed vertically through the middle of the tongue.

Horizontal Tongue Piercing

Horizontal tongue piercings are also known as snake eyes. This piercing does horizontally through the tongue using a curved barbell. This is a controversial piercing; some Toronto piercers don’t even do it since it can cause severe tongue damage.

Venom Bites

Venom bites are identical looking to snake eyes but much safer. This piercing is two separate piercings placed side by side.

Angel Bites

Angle bites are the vertical version of venom bites. Two (or more) piercings are placed one in front of the other along the middle of the tongue.

Tongue Frenulum Piercing

This piercing isn’t for everyone. It involves piercing the web of skin under the tongue, which is why it’s also called the tongue web piercing. Some people like this piercing since they can keep it hidden.

Tongue Tip Piercing

As you probably guessed by the name, this piercing is done on the tip of the tongue. It’s a horizontal piercing, not a vertical one, and is classified as a surface piercing.

Side Tongue Piercing

Instead of a standard midline piercing in the center of the tongue, some people are opting for side tongue piercings. These piercings are placed on either the left or the right side, making it an off-centered tongue piercing.

Other Oral Piercings

Uvula Piercing

You know that little dangly thing in the back of your throat? That’s called your uvula and it can be pierced too. It’s a risky and rare piercing, since touching it can activate one’s gag reflex.

Upper Frenulum Piercing

A frenulum is the skin that connects the lip to the gums. Getting the upper frenulum piercing is also known as vampire piercings.

Smiley

Out of all of the oral piercings, smiley piercings are probably the most popular after standard tongue ones. A smiley piercing is when the tissue beneath the lip bow is pierced.

Frown

This piercing is the opposite of the smiley piercing. It’s known as the frown since it’s the bottom central tissue connecting the lip to the gum pierced instead of the top.

Dental Piercing

When people say piercings we think of skin or cartilage. But dental piercings are becoming a hot new thing. It’s when a small hole is drilled into your tooth with a dental drill where jewelry is placed.

Gum Piercings

Gum piercings are so new that most piercers probably haven’t heard of them. The jury is still out on them but it involves piercing the actual gums. Ouch!

Contact a Toronto Tattoo Shop today to book your next oral piercing appointment.

Common Questions About Piercings

Piercings are more popular than ever before. As their popularity grows so do the curiosity and questions about them. Here are the most common questions we get asked about piercings.

Q: How old do I have to be to get a piercing?

A: In most places, parental permission is required for people under the age of 16 for piercings. Lobe piercings are the only exception to this and don’t require consent from a parent. Some piercings, like the nipples and genitals, won’t be performed on anyone under the age of 18. Proper identification is required before all piercings so make sure you have valid government ID.

Q: Do I need to make an appointment?

A: It’s always best to call ahead and make an appointment, as top tattoo shops can get busy. However, piercings don’t usually take long so walk-ins are welcome. If you want to avoid waiting you should make an appointment though.

Q: Do piercings hurt?

A: Like tattoos, piercings in certain locations hurt more than others. Lobe piercings are mild in pain but other places like the genitals are extremely high in pain. Even with this, the pain is brief so don’t worry too much. Any questions or concerns you have about can be discussed with your piercer ahead of time.

Q: Should I spin my jewelry as it heals?

A: Spinning jewelry as it heals is something we were all told to do as kids to prevent sticking. It’s actually a bad thing to do though. Most jewelry used in top piercing locations won’t stick to the skin. Spinning just causes more damage to the healing process. Your piercer will go over how to care for your new piercing.

Q: Is everything sterilized and safe?

A: We take sanitation and safety seriously at our top Toronto tattoo shop. We make sure to comply with every health code and law required by the government. Your health and safety are a priority to us. All of our equipment is properly sterilized and we will happily go through and explain and show you these steps.

Q: How long before I can change jewelry?

A: The timeframe for switching out jewelry depends on what type of jewelry you have in and where you got pierced. How fast your individual body heals will also be a factor. Ask your piercer this when you go in. If you want to change it out sooner, or need to for whatever reason, come back in and have a professional do it for you.

Q: What do I do if my piercing gets infected?

A: Following the aftercare advice given to you will reduce your risk of getting an infection. Sometimes it happens though. Your first step should be to contact and visit your piercer. They can help you with what to do next. Don’t take out the jewelry though as this can make the infection worse.

Q: Can I get a piercing if I’m pregnant?

A: Doctors and professional piercers don’t recommend getting any piercings or tattoos while pregnant or nursing. A piercing will put more stress and strain on your body and immune system. While pregnant your body needs to focus on staying healthy for the baby so any unnecessary stress isn’t good. Wait until after you have given birth and are done nursing before coming in for a new piercing.

Q: What will happen to my navel piercing when I get pregnant?

A: Your stomach will grow as the baby grows. This can cause a navel piercing to become uncomfortable, usually around the 6^th month of pregnancy. Today, many places sell large, plastic navel piercings precisely for this reason. Switch this out when pregnant to prevent any issues.

Q: Do you pierce with studs of hoops?

A: The location, your body, and our piercer’s preference will also factor into what type of jewelry used. Starting out with a stud is usually preferred as they heal easier. If you want a bar or ring this can be discussed with our piercer. Ultimately, our piercer has the right to refuse if they don’t feel comfortable putting in a certain piercing.

Q: Can I bring friends with me?

A: We encourage you to bring in friends for moral support. We limit the number of people in the room to two or three, mainly due to space. No kids or pets are allowed though. We reserve the right to ask anyone to leave if we feel they are being too disruptive.

Q: What kinds of piercings do you do?

A: From regular piercings to dermal, we do every type of piercing you could image. No location is off limits either. Our piercer will pierce anything, from the visible to the extremely intimate.

Q: How much do piercings cost?

A: It’s never a simple question to answer. Lots of factors go into determining the price of a piercing. Location, the type of piercing, the jewelry selected and our piercer will also influence the price. Contact us to determine the exact price.

Q: Is your piercer trained and qualified?

A: We would never hire someone that wasn’t. Our piercer is experienced and trained in this field as well as fully certified. We only want to best for our clients.

Contact a Toronto Tattoo Shop today to set up a piercing appointment.

Which Piercing Locations Are The Most Painful?

A big question we get asked a lot at our downtown Toronto tattoo shop is “how much will it hurt to get pierced there”? 

To answer that burning question we’ve ranked the most popular piercings locations by pain level from least painful to most painful.

Least Painful

Lobe Piercings

A lobe piercing is so painless and common that it’s the only piercing that can be done under the age 16 without parental consent. Even babies get them done. People compare the pain to a slight, brief pinch. To get an idea of pain, pinch your earlobe.

Eyebrow

Eyebrow piercings aren’t as common and they’re certainly more for the trendy crowd. However, they aren’t painful to get despite what many people think. People say it’s more of a slight pressure pain than anything.

Navel

Who didn’t get their bellybutton pierced during the early 2000’s? This piercing location’s popularity has died down some but it’s still a hit spot. The good news is that it’s pretty painless with piercers comparing the pain to a brief bee sting.

Moderately Painful

Nasal

When it comes to nose piercings there are tons of options. The pain can differ depending on where on the nose you get pierced. The nostril is the least painful while the septum, which has more cartilage, is more painful. Overall, a nose piercing is moderate in terms of pain though expect your eyes to water.

Lip

There are lots of options for lip piercings too. Most lip piercings are the same amount of pain but if you get multiple the pain multiples too. These piercings aren’t too painful though but the swelling afterward can be (and it makes you look like you took a hit!).

Ear

The lobe isn’t the only popular location to piercer on the ear nowadays. Other location on the ear, basically anywhere on the ear, is popular today. These locations tend to be more painful than the lobe though. The exact pain level depends on where you get pierced but the thicker the cartilage in the area the more painful it will be.

Tongue

Tongue piercings are still more taboo than other facial piercings. People expect them to hurt a lot, especially since the only experience people have to compare it to is biting one's tongue. The truth is that the pain is fairly moderate as the pain is more localized than accidentally biting your tongue. It can swell afterward though making it difficult to eat and talk.

Most Painful

Nipple

Thanks to celebrities like Rihanna and Kylie Jenner, nipple piercings have become incredibly popular. Toronto tattoo shops get more of this requested every day. Be warned though- they hurt. This area is sensitive which only increases the pain. Clothing rubbing against them also makes them more uncomfortable than other piercings.

Dermal

Dermal piercings are different than other piercings in that they don’t go all the way through the skin. They are either placed partially or completely under the skin. Because of this, dermal piercings are incredibly painful. They can be placed almost anywhere on the body and depend on where they’re placed the higher the pain is.

Genital

As expected, genital piercings are the most painful. Whether you’re getting male or female genitals pierced it’s going to hurt. The pain is intense but it’s over pretty quickly. It’s extremely important to follow aftercare advice for these piercings though as serious health issues could arise.

Conclusion

Much like tattoos, the piercing pain is all based on where it gets done. They don’t always hurt as badly as tattoos, nor are they as permanent, but a professional Toronto piercer should do them.

7 Things Your Piercer Wants You To Know

Getting piercings isn’t as big of a deal as it used to be. Nowadays they are common, socially accepted, and usually aren’t as permanent as a tattoo. 

Still, anytime you are putting a needle into your body (even for a second) you should take it with some seriousness. There are a few things that piercer’s wish people knew before heading to their local Toronto tattoo shop. Here are seven of them:

1.    Avoid Piercing Guns

Almost everyone has gotten a piercing with a gun at some point, usually as a child in the mall. But piercers wish people would stay away from them. Not only are they not regulated or precise but they also are extremely hard to sanitize properly meaning you’re more likely to get an infection. Guns also use a dull stud rather than a sharp needle, which makes them more likely to damage the area.

2.    Only Listen to Professional Aftercare Advice

You should only listen to aftercare advice of a trained, professional piercer. In other words, avoid the Internet. People are still spouting off aftercare advice that they learned from a Claire’s piercing handout as a kid. Don’t twist the piercings when it’s dry as this can cause damage. Always clean it properly to avoid infections. If you ever have any questions or concerns be sure to contact a professional piercer to get your answers, not Google.

3.    Don’t Throw Around the Word Infected

People toss around the word infected about their piercings far too often. It’s actually pretty rare for a piercing to become infected as this can only really happen in the first few weeks. Most often people confuse normal irritation and healing with infection. Some hurting, soreness, oozing, crusting, and swelling is perfectly normal and part of the healing process.

4.    Don’t Go to a Doctor For a Piercing

As soon as people worry their piercing is infected they go running to the doctor. This is a big mistake though as most doctors don’t actually know a whole lot about piercings and can just make the situation worse. Always go back to your piercer first if you have any concerns. They will best advise you on when and if you should go see a doctor.

5.    Don’t Haggle

Save the price haggling for the flea market, not the tattoo shop. Getting a piercing done by a professional can be a little pricey, especially if it’s a unique piercing. But you get what you pay for. Going cheap can lead to an uneven, unsanitary piercing that will end up costing you more later on. Professional piercers are trained, experienced, and follow certain regulations so they know what they are doing. Don’t insult them or their work by haggling on a price. Prices are set for a reason.

6.    Communicate and Be Honest

They say communication is key for a reason. Communicate with your piercer every step of the way. Be honest with them about your feelings, concerns, and what you want. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions, even if you think they sound dumb. Your piercer isn’t going to judge you. Even if you go in with a piercing you did yourself or by a poor non-professional piercer to get fixed your piercer just wants to help you out go be open and honest with them always.

7.    Listen to Your Piercer’s Advice

You go to a professional for a reason. They know what they’re doing and talking about so be sure to listen to them and follow their advice. If they tell you a certain piercing can’t or shouldn’t be done listen to them. Head their advice on placement, jewelry size, and all aftercare tips. It’s their job to give you the best possible piercing and advice, that’s why you’re paying for a professional after all.

Types of Lip Piercings

Interested in getting a lip piercing? There are tons of types and options out there. Here are some of the most popular lip piercings we see at our Toronto Tattoo Shop.

Madonna

Named after the musical icon, the Madonna piercing is placed on the right side of the face just above the upper lip. The exact location of Madonna’s own mole.

Monroe

There’s no more iconic beauty mark than Marilyn Monroe’s. The Monroe piercing is in homage to that. It is placed on the left side of the face just above the top lip, exactly where Marilyn’s beauty mark was.

Labret

While considered a lip piercing, with a labret the lip isn’t technically pierced. The labret is right below the bottom lip above the chin.

Medusa

The medusa piercing is placed in that little dip on the top of your lip below the nose. Placement is important here, as you don’t want to throw off the symmetry of your face. So find a good piercer.

Vertical Labret

A vertical labret has two holes. One is in the same place as a regular labret, with the second hole coming out of the middle of the bottom lip.

Jestrum

Jestrum piercings, also known as vertical medusas, are placed in the dip above the upper lip with the other end coming out the underside of the upper lip.

Spider Bites

Spider bite piercings are a pair of piercings close together. They are placed either on the top or bottom lip. Getting two piercings so close together at the same time can be painful, so you’ve been warned.

Angel Bites

Angel bite piercings are two evenly separated piercings on the upper lip. Think of them as a combination of Monroe and Madonna piercings. Snake bite piercings are the opposite of this.

Cyber Bites

Cyber bite piercings are a combination of medusa and labret. One hole is placed in the center just above the top lip with the other hole in the center just below the bottom lip.

Dolphin Bites

Dolphin bite piercings are two piercings centered on the lower lip close together. They are similar to snake bite piercings only closer in distance.

Dahlia Bites

Dahlia piercings are done at the corner of the mouth. You can get them done in pairs or only one done. They can be rings but studs are more popular.

Canine Bites

Canine bites are a combination of angel bites and snake bite piercings. Two piercings are placed above the upper lip with a distance between them, with two more placed even spaced below the bottom lip. This makes a total of four piercings.

Snake Bites

Snake bites consist of two piercings evenly spaced on the lower lip. This piercing can be done with either rings or stud.

Shark Bites

Shark bites are two close together piercings on either side of the bottom lip. This is four piercings total. It is essentially double spider bites.

Horizontal Lip

Horizontal lip piercings involve putting a horizontal barbell through the center of the bottom lip.

Ashley

The Ashley piercing is one of the most popular piercings. It is a single piercing placed in the center of the bottom lip. It is still a fairly new piercing so be sure to get it done by a professional.

Lip piercings have come a long way. They make a bold statement without being overpowering. Contact our Toronto Tattoo Shop today to set up a lip piercing appointment in our downtown Toronto tattoo shop.

Nose Piercings Explained

What was once a symbol of punk, goth, and general rebellion has now become a common trend. Nose piercings are continuing to advance and gain popularity at our Toronto Tattoo Shop. There are eight main nose piercings styles today.

Nostril

Standard nostril piercings are the most traditional and common nose piercings people get. Situated in the crease of your nose, a nostril piercing consists of a single hole. It can be done on either side depending on your preference. Either a stud or a ring can be placed in this area.

High Nostril

As you would expect based on the name, a high nostril piercing is just above a standard nostril piercing. Some people even get both to have a layered look. This piercing isn’t as simple as a nostril piercing due to it being tricky to reach.     

Septum

Septum piercings have gained popularity lately. The septum is the region of your nose separating the two nostrils. A ring is usually worn here, giving the wearer an appearance of a bull. The good news about this piercing though is that it can be flipped upwards to hide it when desired. Just a warning, the septum is made of thick cartilage so getting it pierced can be very painful.    

Bridge

Bridge piercings are located at the top, the bridge, of the nose. They’re technically surface piercings as no cartilage or bone is actually pierced. Because of them being surface piercings they are susceptible to migration. That is when the body pushed the piercing out as it heals away from it.     

Vertical Tip

Also known as the rhino, vertical tip piercings are very unique. A piercing runs vertically from the tip of the nose to just under the nose. It’s a rare type of piercing so find a skilled piercer to make sure it’s done properly.     

Septril

Septril piercings are a combination of a gauged septum and a half vertical tip. The tip is pierced and linked internally to the gauged septum. The gauging septum process can take years to achieve and is extremely delicate. It’s a time-consuming, expensive, and painful process. Make sure you get an experienced piercer to do it so it is successful.     

Gauge

Gauged can be placed either in the septum or in the nostrils. Like ear gauges, the process must happen slowly. Gauges will grow through a long period of time from small to large. The look is one of the most unique nose piercing. It is not a process that can be undone so be sure before going through with it.     

Nasallang

Nasallang piercings look simple but they are anything but that. This piercing goes through both nostrils and the septum. A barbell piercing is typically worn. This process is extremely difficult and painful due to the tri-piercing it requires.     

Interested in any of these nose piercings? Contact our Toronto Tattoo Shop today to set up an appointment in our downtown Toronto tattoo shop with our amazing in-house piercer.