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There are soo many piercing aftercare products out there. And a lot of bad advice on the internet. That’s why it's crucial to be informed before shopping. If a product promises quick healing or miraculous results, it's too good to be true. Healing a piercing takes time. No magical product can heal your piercing in three weeks or remove complications like keloids or piercing bumps. Patience, proper care, and dedication are all that’s needed. Rather than falling for misleading claims, stick to tried-and-true aftercare practices recommended by professional piercers.
With that, we are here to say- if it involves any of these, skip it!
Why should it be avoided? Yes, they used to say these things were ok to clean your piercings with, and you will probably find many "piercing aftercare" products with them in it. While they may be effective for cleaning cuts and scrapes they are too harsh for piercings. Both products can damage new healthy skin cells that are helping your piercing heal! Using these products actually delays healing and increases the risk of irritation and infection.
Why should it be avoided? This one is popular. Clients ask all the time if this is a product they can use. Unfortunately, similar to peroxide and alcohol, Bactine’s harshness and potential to disrupt the healing process make it a no-go product. Bactine contains the ingredients lidocaine and benzalkonium chloride, which can cause irritation, burning, and allergic reactions. The product and the website both state it is not for use on puncture wounds (Which is what a piercing is). See the Bactine FAQ here https://bactine.com/faqs/
Why should it be avoided? Another popular choice, courtesy of the internet, is tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is used as a natural antiseptic and in skin care to help fight acne and reduce inflammation. Despite its popularity, there's little proof that it helps piercings heal better, treat piercing bumps, or prevent infections. Applying undiluted tea tree oil directly to the skin can lead to adverse effects such as irritation, dryness, and even burning. I know your friend swears by it, but I assure you, it's not worth the risk!
Why should it be avoided? Ointments like Polysporin and other petroleum-based products create a barrier over the piercing site. This barrier traps bacteria and prevents airflow, slowing down the healing process.
Why should it be avoided? Similar to Polysporin, oils like these are thick and create a barrier over the piercing. The moist environment created by these oils can promote bacterial growth, increasing the risk of infection.
Why should it be avoided? While these are all beneficial in specific contexts, they can also irritate or cause infection in a new piercing. The most popular is turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory properties and is often an ingredient in skincare products. So we get WHY people think it might work, but applying any of these products can cause irritation, and the turmeric will stain your skin yellow.
When it comes to piercing aftercare, less is more. Avoid harsh or unnecessary products and ingredients that can do more harm than good. For body piercings, stick to sterile saline solution- which should just be TWO ingredients-sterile water and sodium chloride. Along with saline, we suggest a gentle cleanser for in the shower. For oral piercings, a saline solution or a plain alcohol-free mouthwash will do the trick.
Why We Like It: Sodium chloride, commonly known as salt, is a natural compound with mild antiseptic properties, which makes it effective in preventing bacterial growth. When used in saline, the sterile water dissolves the salt to create a solution with the appropriate concentration of salt to water. The final product provides gentle cleansing without causing irritation or damage to the healing tissue.
To Conclude...
By using aftercare products formulated with ingredients known for their wound-healing properties, you can optimize the healing process and reduce the risk of complications. Remember, there are no shortcuts! Especially when it comes to caring for your piercing, being patient and consistent will help you achieve the best results.
What’s the strangest aftercare product you’ve seen or tried? Comment below.
It happens all the time- a client comes into the studio, they haven’t had jewelry in their piercing for a while, and they’ve tried, but can’t get any jewelry back in. The struggle is real.
While this could suggest that the piercing has fully closed, this isn't always the case. Sometimes, the piercing remains open, but has simply reduced in size and shrunk.
Let's discuss!
First things first,
How do piercings stay open?
Piercings stay open due to the presence of a “fistula” more commonly referred to as a “piercing channel.” The fistula is essentially a tunnel of healed scar tissue that forms around the jewelry. This fistula keeps the hole open by maintaining a pathway through the skin.
How do piercings shrink or close?
During the healing process, the body treats the piercing as a wound and attempts to heal and close it. This is why jewelry is crucial- it acts as structural support. When the jewelry is removed the fistula naturally contracts and shrinks. The lack of jewelry could lead the piercing channel to close, as the body responds to the absence of that support.
At the studio, we're often asked: “How long before my piercing closes up?”
This question, unfortunately, has no solid answer. The fate of whether a piercing stays open, shrinks, or closes depends on how the body heals. Which, of course, will vary from person to person. If a piercing is fresh or healing when the jewelry is removed, it has the potential to close up quite quickly. And it will close much faster than an older piercing with a well-established fistula.
Is the piercing closed or shrunken?
A fully closed piercing will have no visible hole, while a shrunken piercing might still have a small indentation or dimple, or sometimes even a visible hole. A shrunken piercing channel may allow for re-opening and jewelry insertion, while a fully closed channel will require re-piercing. To determine whether a piercing is closed or partially open, a piercer will step in to assess the situation.
How do we reopen a shrunken piercing?
For this service, we use a taper. But these are not at all like the ones you used to buy at Hot Topic. Professional tapers, among other things, are longer and designed with a gradually increasing diameter along its length. The gradual increase in width will help to ensure a gentle stretching process and minimize trauma. Tapering is usually preferable for the client, as it allows them to skip the healing process associated with a new piercing.
Re-Piercing
First, the piercer will check to see if the original piercing site is suitable for re-piercing.
Re-piercing will involve the use of a hollow needle to make a new piercing channel. There are some situations where your piercer may recommend against re-piercing or waiting before doing so. For example, if too much scar tissue is present a re-pierce may be advised against, or if a piercing is partially closed, you may have to wait until it heals completely. Your piercer will offer guidance based on your individual situation. Whether it involves waiting or exploring alternative solutions, seeking professional advice is essential.
Here's a quick recap...
Piercing Needle:
designed for creating the initial hole during piercing
Insertion Taper:
eing inserted or stretched.
It's important to note that stretching/tapering must be done gradually, and the use of tapers should be performed by a professional piercer to ensure proper technique and minimize the risk of complications. Additionally, not all piercings are suitable for stretching, and it's essential to follow appropriate aftercare instructions provided by your piercer.
Know someone who thinks their piercings are closed for good? Share this with them!
Welcome back to Perfect Image's blog series on advocating for safety and professionalism in the tattoo and piercing industry.
In Part 1, we explored the current landscape of the industry, the significance of online reviews and customer experiences, and the critical issue of untrained personnel. We also discussed Perfect Image's unwavering commitment to professionalism, safety, and quality, emphasizing our dedication to providing a professional experience for our clients.
In this second installment, we will delve deeper into the benefits of a regulated industry. By implementing better regulation and standardization, we believe that the tattoo and piercing industry can not only thrive but also ensure the safety and satisfaction of every client.
In the tattoo and piercing industry, the safety and satisfaction of our clients are paramount. This is where industry regulation comes into play as a critical component of our commitment to professionalism and quality.
Let's delve into how a regulated industry ensures the safety and satisfaction of our valued clients:
In essence, a regulated industry places client safety and satisfaction at the forefront, offering peace of mind to those seeking body modifications. By adhering to these standards, we at Perfect Image aim to provide a experience that not only meets but exceeds our clients' expectations.
A well-regulated industry contributes significantly to improving its overall reputation. When clients know that stringent standards are in place and enforced, they are more likely to view the industry with trust and confidence.
This positive perception has a ripple effect on the industry's image as a whole:
Minimizing Negative Experiences: Regulations help in weeding out unqualified practitioners who might provide subpar services or engage in unethical practices. This minimizes the occurrence of negative experiences that tarnish the industry's reputation.
Elevating Professionalism: Industry regulations elevate the level of professionalism expected from studios. Clients are more likely to have a positive view of an industry that values professionalism, safety, and quality.
Attracting Responsible Artists: Stringent regulations attract responsible and ethical piercing artists who are committed to upholding industry standards. This influx of skilled professionals enhances the industry's reputation and fosters a community of excellence.
By advocating for better regulation and standardization, Perfect Image not only ensures the safety of our clients but also contributes to the overall positive perception of the tattoo and piercing industry.
Trust is the foundation of any successful business-client relationship, and in the tattoo and piercing industry, it holds particular importance.
A regulated industry fosters trust among clients in several ways:
Transparency: Regulations promote transparency. Clients can expect clear and honest communication about risks and aftercare, leading to a sense of trust in their chosen studio.
Accountability: Regulations hold studios and artists accountable for their actions. Clients know that if they encounter any issues or concerns, there are established channels for addressing them, ensuring their interests are protected.
Consistency: Standardized procedures and regulations ensure that clients receive a consistent level of service. This consistency builds trust as clients know what to expect.
At Perfect Image, we understand that trust is earned through our unwavering commitment to professionalism and adherence to industry regulations. Our aim is to create an environment where every client feels secure, valued, and confident.
By prioritizing professionalism, safety, and quality, we not only set ourselves apart from untrained personnel but also elevate the overall standards of the industry. Our clients can rest assured that when they choose Perfect Image, they are selecting a studio that values their safety, satisfaction, and overall experience above all else.
Based on the criteria above, the benefits of a regulated tattoo and piercing industry are far-reaching, encompassing client safety, industry reputation, trust, and a competitive edge for studios committed to excellence like Perfect Image. Join us in the next section, where we'll delve into how Perfect Image specifically addresses these benefits and sets a standard for professionalism and safety within the industry.
In this two-part blog series, we've explored the critical issue of untrained personnel within the tattoo and piercing industry.
We've highlighted the significant impact of unqualified practitioners on customer safety and satisfaction, and we've underscored the need for better regulation and standardization to protect the well-being of clients.
At Perfect Image, we take our role as advocates for professionalism, safety, and quality seriously. We've shared our dedication to adhering to industry regulations and ensuring that our clients receive a safe and exceptional piercing experience. Our commitment to professionalism extends not only to our clients but also to the industry. We strive to set a standard for excellence that others can aspire to.
Your safety and satisfaction should always be your top priority when seeking body modifications. We encourage you to take the time to research and choose professional studios like Perfect Image.
Look for certifications, qualifications, and adherence to industry standards. Your body deserves the best care, and a professional studio will provide you with a secure and satisfying experience.
Spread awareness about the importance of making responsible decisions when choosing a studio for body modifications. Share your positive experiences with professional studios and educate others on the potential risks associated with untrained personnel.
By promoting responsible decision-making, you can help ensure that clients are well-informed and empowered to make choices that prioritize their safety and satisfaction.
The tattoo and piercing industry has the potential to thrive while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and safety. Perfect Image remains committed to these principles. We thank you for joining us on this journey towards a safer and more regulated industry, where every client can confidently express themselves through body modifications while knowing they are in capable and caring hands.
LINKS TO INDUSTRY ORGANIZATIONS AND EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
To further support you, we've compiled a list of valuable resources and links to industry organizations. These organizations are dedicated to promoting professionalism, safety, and quality within the industry.
We encourage you to explore these resources to stay informed and connected:
Association of Professional Piercers (APP): The APP is committed to providing resources, education, and standards for piercing professionals and studios.
National Tattoo Association (NTA): The NTA focuses on promoting excellence and professionalism in the tattoo industry through education and advocacy.
If you're ready to embark on your piercing or tattoo journey with a studio that prioritizes your safety, satisfaction, and professionalism, we invite you to get in touch with us at Perfect Image. Our dedicated team is here to assist you with any inquiries or appointments.
Thank you for considering Perfect Image as your trusted destination for body piercings and tattoos. We look forward to serving you and ensuring that your experience is not only safe and professional but also a reflection of your unique style and self-expression!
Perfect Image understands the profound importance of safety, quality, and professionalism in the tattoo and piercing industry.
Today, we invite you to join us on a journey to explore a critical issue plaguing the industry: the presence of untrained personnel.
In this two-part blog post, we will delve into three key areas surrounding this issue:
By the end of this post, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges posed by untrained personnel in the tattoo and piercing industry and how Perfect Image is at the forefront of advocating for professionalism and safety. We believe that every client deserves a safe and enjoyable experience when choosing body modifications, and we're here to ensure just that.
Join us in this journey towards a more regulated and standardized industry that prioritizes the well-being of clients above all else. Let's get started!
A BOOMING INDUSTRY WITH GROWING POPULARITY
The tattoo and piercing industry is currently experiencing an unprecedented surge in popularity.
What was once considered a niche subculture has now become a mainstream phenomenon. People from diverse backgrounds are embracing body piercings and tattoos as forms of self-expression, art, and personal identity. This growth has led to a proliferation of studios and artists eager to cater to this demand.
As a piercing artist at Perfect Image, I've witnessed this industry-wide expansion firsthand. Our studio, like many others, has seen an influx of clients seeking everything from delicate ear piercings to intricate body modifications. While this surge in interest is undoubtedly exciting, it also drives home the need for strict quality control and professional standards.
In today's digital age, customer reviews and experiences play a pivotal role in shaping the reputation of businesses. With just a few clicks, potential clients can access a plethora of online reviews and testimonials that provide insights into the practices, professionalism, and overall satisfaction of past customers.
Online platforms and social media have become double-edged swords for our industry. They allow customers to share their positive experiences and showcase their stunning body modifications, which can attract new clients. However, they also shine a spotlight on untrained personnel and studios that fail to meet the necessary standards. These online reviews serve as a crucial source of information for those seeking body piercings and tattoos, emphasizing the importance of choosing a reputable and professional studio like Perfect Image.
But don't just take our word for it – hear from our satisfied customers who have experienced the professionalism and quality that Perfect Image stands for.
"Perfect Image went above and beyond to ensure my piercing experience was safe and enjoyable. Their attention to detail and commitment to hygiene truly set them apart."
- Sarah M.
"I've had multiple piercings done at Perfect Image, and I couldn't be happier with the results. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and their dedication to safety is evident in every step of the process."
- David L.
"As someone new to body modifications, I was apprehensive, but Perfect Image put me at ease. They took the time to explain everything and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the entire process. I highly recommend them!"
- Emily S.
While the growth of the tattoo and piercing industry is undeniably exciting, it has also given rise to a concerning issue – the presence of untrained personnel. As the industry expands, individuals with little to no formal training or qualifications are entering the market, offering tattoo and piercing services to unsuspecting clients.
This situation poses significant risks to the health and well-being of clients. Untrained tattoo artists and piercers may lack the knowledge required to perform safe and sterile procedures, increasing the likelihood of infections, complications, and unsatisfactory results. It's a distressing reality that anyone, regardless of their qualifications, can potentially offer piercing and tattoo services.
In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the impact of untrained personnel on customers and explore how Perfect Image is addressing this issue to ensure that every client receives a safe, professional, and satisfying body piercing experience. We firmly believe that the industry's growth should go hand in hand with a commitment to safety and quality.
Unsafe Practices: Without the proper knowledge of sterilization procedures and piercing techniques, inexperienced practitioners can inadvertently put clients at risk of infections and other health complications. It's an alarming reality that substandard practices can lead to long-lasting physical consequences for those seeking body modifications.
Increased Risk of Complications: Untrained piercers often lack the expertise needed to anticipate and prevent complications. Even seemingly minor errors during the piercing process can result in painful infections, allergic reactions, or more severe issues such as nerve damage. Clients shouldn't have to gamble with their health when seeking professional body modifications.
Negative Experiences: Beyond physical risks, encountering untrained personnel can lead to deeply negative experiences for clients. From unsanitary studio conditions to a lack of communication and bedside manner, these encounters can be emotionally distressing and disappointing. Negative experiences can leave clients feeling disillusioned with the industry, making them hesitant to seek further piercings or tattoos.
Given the concerns outlined above, it becomes abundantly clear that the tattoo and piercing industry needs better regulation and standardization. Clients deserve peace of mind when they decide to undergo body modifications, knowing that their safety and well-being are prioritized.
Better regulation can:
Establish clear guidelines for practitioners, ensuring they receive proper training and maintain high standards of hygiene.
Implement stringent sterilization and safety protocols to minimize the risk of infections and complications.
Mandate adherence to ethical practices, including informed consent, proper aftercare instructions, and transparent communication with clients.
Enable clients to make informed decisions by providing access to information about a studio's certifications, qualifications, and compliance with industry standards.
In the following sections, we'll explore how Perfect Image is leading the way in advocating for professionalism, safety, and quality within the tattoo and piercing industry. We believe that a regulated and standardized industry is the key to ensuring the well-being of our valued clients.
At Perfect Image, our core mission revolves around providing our clients with a safe, professional, and exceptional experience. We understand the concerns raised by the presence of untrained personnel in the tattoo and piercing industry, and we take this issue seriously.
Here's a closer look at our unwavering commitment to professionalism, safety, and quality:
Safety and quality are the cornerstones of our business. From the moment you step into our studio, you'll notice our dedication to maintaining a clean, sterile, and welcoming environment. We prioritize your well-being above all else, ensuring that every aspect of your experience is held to the highest standards. Our commitment to safety extends to our piercing and tattoo procedures, aftercare instructions, and the materials and equipment we use, all of which are carefully selected to minimize any risks.
To address the issue of untrained personnel head-on, we invest heavily in the ongoing training and education of our staff. Our artists undergo rigorous training programs that cover the importance of ethics, communication, and client-centered care. We believe that knowledge is the key to providing the best possible service, and our commitment to continuous learning ensures that our team stays up to date with the latest industry advancements and safety protocols.
Our dedication to professionalism and quality is reflected in our team's certifications and qualifications. We ensure that our artists are not only well-trained but also hold certifications and qualifications required for their roles.
These certifications are regularly updated to align with industry standards and evolving best practices. When you choose Perfect Image, you can trust that our staff possesses the expertise and knowledge needed to provide you with a safe and exceptional piercing experience.
Our commitment to professionalism is not just a promise; it's a cornerstone of our practice.
In this first part of our blog, we've explored the dynamic landscape of the tattoo and piercing industry, the power of online reviews and customer experiences, and the pressing issue of untrained personnel.
At Perfect Image, we've made it our mission to prioritize safety, quality, and professionalism. We've shared our dedication to providing a safe and exceptional experience for our clients, and we've detailed our commitment to investing in training and ensuring that our staff maintains updated certifications and qualifications.
Learn about how we make sure your piercing and tattoo experience at Perfect Image is professional, safe, and enjoyable. Stay tuned for more details and information in Part 2. We can't wait to share more with you!
Get ready to elevate your style with a touch of elegance and a dash of brilliance. NeoMetal has just released some stunning new additions that you're sure to love.
Introducing: Two fresh gemstone cutss. The pear and the trillion.
Why we love it...
Unmatched Elegance with Swarovski Crystals
Swarovski crystals are renowned for their exceptional quality and brilliance, and NeoMetal has masterfully incorporated them into their latest pieces.
Versatile and Easy to Wear
One of the standout features of all NeoMetal jewelry is its ease of use. The threadless design ensures that you can effortlessly change your jewelry whenever you please, without the need for special tools or visits to a professional piercer. These tops and others are compatible with NeoMetal threadless posts and can be securely interchanged to suit your style and mood.
Quality You Can Trust
NeoMetal is well-known for their dedication to precision and excellence, ensuring that you not only receive visually stunning products- but ones that are designed to withstand the test of time. NeoMetal jewelry is crafted using the highest quality materials available. The vast majority of their jewelry is crafted from ASTM F-136 certified implant-grade titanium, a hypoallergenic and biocompatible material. Every gem is crimp-set into the jewelry setting; no glues are used, ensuring the most stunning sparkle.
Wrap-Up
NeoMetal's latest Trillion and Pear Cut Prongs are gorgeous. Ideal for both fresh and healed piercings, they are a perfect addition to your curated ear, offering a simple yet dazzling touch.
These pieces and more are coming soon to your local Pi.
Hey Pi Fam. Today, we're diving into the world of navel anatomy and exploring two popular navel piercing styles: traditional navel piercings and floating navel piercings.
It's important to note that individual anatomy can vary greatly, and the suitability of a specific piercing style will differ from person to person. Our piercers will assess your navel anatomy during a consultation and guide you on the most suitable piercing style based on their expertise and knowledge.
Let’s get into it...
Traditional Navel Piercings
Traditional navel piercings are the most common and classic style. They involve a single puncture through the skin above the navel and below the upper rim, resulting in a vertical hole. This style typically uses a curved barbell as the jewelry. The barbell rests inside the hole, while the decorative ends sit on the top and bottom of the navel. Traditional navel piercings are well-suited for a variety of navel anatomies. However, the ideal anatomy for this style includes a distinct fold or crease above the navel, known as the upper rim. This fold allows for a secure placement of the jewelry and prevents migration or rejection. Additionally, the depth of your navel is an essential factor to consider. A moderately deep navel provides enough tissue for the piercing to be comfortably placed without risking excessive pressure on the jewelry.
Floating Navel Piercings
Floating navel piercings, also known as inverse navel piercings or top-down navel piercings, are a more contemporary twist on the traditional style. In this style, the piercing is placed at the top of the navel and passes through the upper rim, creating the illusion of a floating piece of jewelry on the top of the navel ridge. The jewelry typically consists of a curved barbell with a small disk for a base, instead of a large gem like a traditional navel, and a larger top. Eliminating the large bottom piece of the jewelry ensures that pressure won’t be applied to the piercing channel, making healing easier and more comfortable. This piercing style is typically suitable for those with a shallow or flat navel, where the upper rim is not as pronounced.
Conclusion
Remember, the ultimate goal is to achieve a safe and well-placed piercing that will heal successfully, and complements your body. Prioritize consultation and communication with your piercer to ensure the best possible outcome.
Piercings are a striking form of self-expression, allowing individuals to adorn their bodies with jewelry that reflects their style and personality. However, with the beauty of piercings comes the responsibility of proper aftercare to ensure a smooth healing process. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of using NeilMed and Cetaphil for piercing aftercare, offering insights into their effectiveness, application methods, and tips for maintaining a healthy healing journey.
Understanding the Importance of Aftercare: After getting a new piercing, your body goes through a healing process that involves minimizing the risk of infection, irritation, and ensuring optimal tissue recovery. Adequate aftercare not only accelerates healing but also enhances the longevity of your piercing's beauty.
NeilMed: A Saline Solution Savior: Saline solutions are a staple in piercing aftercare due to their gentle yet effective cleansing properties. NeilMed's piercing aftercare products are renowned for their quality and safety. Here's how to use them effectively:
Cetaphil: The Gentle Cleansing Touch: Cetaphil is renowned for its mild, non-irritating formula, making it an excellent option for cleansing your new piercing without causing unnecessary agitation. Here's how to incorporate Cetaphil into your piercing aftercare routine:
Tips for Effective Piercing Aftercare:
In Conclusion: Caring for your new piercing is a blend of patience, diligence, and choosing the right aftercare products. NeilMed's saline solution and Cetaphil's gentle cleansing formula offer a harmonious combination that nurtures your piercing while promoting a safe, hygienic, and successful healing journey. By following these aftercare guidelines, you're not only ensuring the longevity of your piercing but also embracing the art of self-care and personal expression.