When it comes to getting body piercings, safety and quality are paramount. But with so many piercing shops around, how can you be sure you're choosing the best one? Or, if you're a studio owner, or how can you set your shop apart from the others?
Customers don't want to risk their health or end up with a subpar experience. With all of the options out there, it's hard to know which shop is right for you.
This guide will provide valuable insights into what customers should consider when choosing the best piercing studio. Whether you're looking for your first body piercing or own a studio yourself, this blog will cover some of the main factors to think about.
Hygiene and sterilisation
A piercing studio's cleanliness and hygiene standards should outweigh its aesthetic appeal. The shop should have a strict policy on sterilisation and sanitation of their equipment and premises.
It is essential that the piercing area, tools and jewellery are clean and sterile before use. Look out for signs such as autoclaves, disposable gloves and single-use needles. This will ensure that you are getting the most hygienic experience possible. Shop PPE and other cleaning supplies here.
Soft furnishings such as carpets and curtains in clinical areas should raise alarm bells as they cannot be properly cleaned and so become easily contaminated. A well-maintained and hygienic studio not only looks and smells clean but also ensure the safety and well-being of clients.
Experience and qualifications
All piercers in the studio should have the relevant training, experience, and qualifications to offer a safe body piercing service. Look out for certificates or other documents which prove that they have a piercing license and adequate Public Liability Insurance.
If these certificates are not on display, this should be a cause for concern: piercing without a license is illegal in the UK.
Highly trained staff
The piercers working in the shop should be highly trained and have a wealth of experience. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their qualifications, experience level and any awards that they may have won for their body modification work.
Staff should also keep up to date with the latest best practices within the piercing industry. Piercing safety organisations like the APP also require all staff members to have Blood-borne Pathogen (BBP) certification and be trained in First Aid and CPR.
Piercers should also be knowledgeable on all piercing types: from standard ear and nose piercings to snake bites and other lip piercings. The piercer should be happy to explain the procedure step-by-step and answer any questions you may have. This level of customer care is especially important if it is a client's first piercing.
Quality body jewellery
Using high-quality jewellery is also paramount to the success of a new piercing. Clients should look for piercing shops that offer a range of jewellery options made from safe materials like surgical-grade stainless steel, titanium, or gold.
Ensure that the piercing studio offers enough options to fit your individual style, budget, and piercing type. For example, many ear piercings usually require a labret stud, while belly bars are used for naval piercings.
If the piercing studio has a huge range of the latest jewellery, then great! But don't let this be the sole factor you select a shop on. It's more important to check that their jewellery is of good quality and made from safe materials.
Piercing advice and aftercare
A good piercing studio should provide detailed and accurate aftercare advice to customers. They should also be able to answer any questions clients may have about the healing process or their individual piercing needs.
This advice includes information on how to clean and care for new body piercings, as well as what signs or symptoms to look out for, such as infection or irritation.
Customer reviews and recommendations
Take the time to do some research online about each piercing studio. Check out their website, social media accounts and reviews from previous customers. This online portfolio will give you an understanding of the shop's professionalism and customer service. It is also a great way to see examples of their piercing work.
Finding the best piercing shop
Finding the perfect piercing studio is not an easy task. But by following the tips above, you can be sure to make the best decision for your individual needs. Whether you're considering a piercing or own a studio yourself, we hope this guide has provided some valuable insights into what customers should consider when choosing the best piercing shop.