How To Get a Body Piercing

Piercing is a traditional ritual and form of expression in human societies all over the world. Books show how piercing became a part of the ancient lives of Greeks and Egyptians, as well as Romans. In fact, piercing also touched the lives of the Asians. For instance, for the primeval Filipinos, piercing as well as body tattooing served as symbols of one’s socio-economic status. The art of piercing did not stop its influence with the ancient people.

Nowadays, body piercing serves as the reflection of one’s personality and sometimes as a fashion statement. Perhaps, you are one of those people who want to have your body pierced. However, before jumping into this decision, you have to consider the risks that you will take because of body piercing. Before deciding to deal with piercing artists, make sure that you have already consulted your family or friends. This will enlighten your decision as to whether you really want to have a body piercing.

If you are decided to have a body piercing, here are the steps to get it done safely and well:

1. Decide in which body part/s you would like to have a body piercing. In deciding, make sure to consider the healing time for each body part. For instance, if you will have piercing on your nostril, it will take two to four months to heal. On the other hand, piercing in the tongue takes four weeks while piercing in the lips needs two to three months of healing. You can ask the piercing master about the healing period for the other body parts.
2. Look for a piercing master. Referrals from friends or anyone you trust is recommended. Make sure that the piercing master that you are into is a licensed one. Licenses for piercing guarantee that the piercing master has acquired sufficient training prior to this job. Trusting the hands of the unlicensed ones will likely put you at a greater health risk.
3. Visit the shop of the piercing master. Trust the piercing shops that are accredited by the Association of Professional Piercers (APP). A certificate from APP may be seen posted on the wall of the shop. An APP Certificate also assures that the piercing shop follows the precautionary steps in body piercing. Licensed piercers require a guardian’s permit for individuals under the age of eighteen. Aside from permits, guardians are also asked to accompany minors during the piercing process.
4. Aside from the licenses and accreditations, you have to consider the physical environment of the piercing shop. Make sure that the shop is clean. The equipment and tools should also be well sanitized. Lighting should be checked. Make sure that their tools, especially the needles, are new and not reusable. Needles and other equipment that is not properly sanitized will lead to health hazards.
5. Consider the kind of jewelry that you will use. You may use gold, stainless steel, titanium, or silver. In choosing which material will suit you, consider your allergies. Make sure that the material you use will not lead to allergies, infections, or skin problems.

Indeed, body piercing is a great leap - a big decision to take. Do not be pressured by your friends or your need to fit in. Remember that you still have the last voice to decide. Decide intelligently.