Are you thinking about getting a new piercing? You might be debating whether to get it done with a needle or a gun. While both methods are widely used, they differ in how they work and the results they produce. In this post, we’ll dive into why the choice of tool matters, how each method impacts the piercing process, and what you should know to make an informed decision.
Let’s start with the piercing gun. What does it look like, and how does it work?
Piercing guns are small tools that look strangely like a hot glue gun, and act similar to a stapler. They have a spring-loaded trigger mechanism and a chamber where an earring is held. When the trigger is pulled, the spring releases, forcefully driving the earring through the ear, creating a hole.
Next, the piercing needle. What does it look like, and how does it work?
Piercing needles are specialized, hollow needles specifically for body piercings. A lot of thought and engineering has gone into creating modern piercing needles to ensure they provide a more comfortable piercing experience. When you’re getting pierced with a needle, the process is straightforward. The needle's sharp, hollow point penetrates the skin, pushing aside tissue and creating a space as it passes through. This space is just the right size for the jewelry to be inserted.
Why Does it Matter?
The method matters because it affects the healing experience, results and overall safety. Here are some other factors to consider before making your choice.
1. Healing:
Piercings done with a gun typically take longer to heal because of the blunt force used to push the earring through the skin. This can cause additional trauma and increase the risk of complications. In contrast, a needle makes a clean cut, which usually means less pain and faster healing since the tissue is minimally disturbed.
2. Safety and Potential for Infection:
Regarding body piercings, sterility is crucial for preventing infections and ensuring smooth healing. Here’s how the sterility of piercing needles compares to that of piercing guns:
Piercing needles are typically single-use items that come pre-sterilized in individual packages. This significantly reduces the risk of cross-contamination.
Piercing guns, on the other hand, are difficult to sterilize due to their complex design. Sure, cleaning can remove visible contaminants, but achieving full sterilization of piercing guns is challenging. Some parts of the tool may not tolerate the high heat and pressure required to achieve sterilization in an autoclave. Reusing a piercing gun without proper sterilization can lead to the transmission of infections and increase the risk of cross-contamination.
3. Precision:
Professional piercers use needles to achieve precise placement and correct angles for each piercing. Piercing guns in contrast, are less accurate due to their spring-loaded mechanism, which forces the earring through the tissue rather than carefully guiding it. This can result in uneven or misaligned piercings.
4. Technician Training and Experience:
The difference between a professional piercer and someone using a gun at a store like Claire's is significant.
For example, professional piercers undergo extensive training and an apprenticeship, learning about anatomy, proper piercing techniques, and safe practices. Staff at stores like Claire's typically receive minimal training and often focus more on sales and customer service.
It’s also important to keep in mind that the environment of a salon or mall store like Claire’s might not meet the same hygiene standards as a professional piercing studio.
When deciding...
between a piercing gun and a needle, it’s essential to consider the reputation and hygiene standards of the establishment, the experience of the piercer, and the type of jewelry used. A professional piercer who uses a needle and prioritizes hygiene and quality can provide a safer and more comfortable piercing experience.
Don't hesitate to ask your piercer if you have any concerns or questions about the piercing process. They can provide detailed information and help you make the best decision.
