PIERCINGS
Professional piercings, intentional care.
APP-member piercers. High-quality jewelry. Thoughtful care from start to finish.
ABOUT PIERCINGS
Health and safety is our #1 priority.
All of our piercers are members of the Association of Professional Piercers and work with sterile, single-use equipment and high-quality body jewelry. From placement and anatomy to healing and aftercare, we take the time to help you make choices that work well for your body. We're dedicated to supporting you long after your initial piercing.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GENERAL PIERCING INFO
Do You Take Appointments?
Yes, we operate on an appointment basis! Booking an appointment ensures we have time to help you out amongst what can be a busy schedule. All appointments include time with a Jewelry Specialist to shop for the perfect jewelry before your requested service with a Piercer.
Is Getting Pierced Safe?
While we can’t guarantee 100% safety, we go above and beyond to minimize risks. Choosing a professional piercer in a sterile environment with high-quality jewelry greatly reduces any potential issues.
Does It Hurt?
Most people might say: “That wasn’t as bad as I thought!” Pain tolerance varies, but piercings are quick; any discomfort fades fast. By the time you see how amazing your new jewelry looks, the fear is gone. Remember: no painkillers are needed, and we can’t pierce anyone under the influence.
How Do I Remove My Jewelry?
Different jewelry styles come with different mechanisms. Threadless jewelry can be pulled apart from both ends (a slight twist helps!), and threaded jewelry can be screwed on and off. If you’re unsure, stop by the studio! We’re happy to help you remove or install jewelry safely, and show you how to do it for the future.
Do You Offer Non-Piercing Body Modifications?
Our professional piercers are licensed specifically for body piercing services. Most alternative body modifications are illegal in the state of Oregon; you’ll likely need to do some traveling. Make sure to find experienced practitioners for these permanent procedures! Do your homework, get reviews and referrals.
AGE & ID REQUIREMENTS
How Old Do I Have to Be to Get a Piercing?
You must be 18 or older to make your own piercing decisions. Minors need a parent or legal guardian with them, along with valid, state or federally-issued photo IDs for everyone. Piercings for minors depend on their physical and emotional maturity, so feel free to come in for a consultation if you’re unsure. We don’t do infant ear piercings or pierce anyone who can’t give informed consent– studio policy is ages 8 & up.
What forms of ID are required for piercing services?
All adults (ages 18+) are legally required to have a state or federally-issued photo ID such as: State ID, Driver’s License, Passport, or Military ID.
Minors (under age 18) must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The accompanying guardian must have an ID as listed before, and paperwork proving relationship minor like a birth certificate, passport, or adoption paperwork.
JEWELRY & MATERIALS
Can I Be Pierced With My Own Jewelry?
While we can’t pierce using jewelry from outside sources, we can reprocess your jewelry from our own studios for reuse! Drop your jewelry off at your chosen studio at least 72 hours before your appointment to be sterilized. Even if it’s never been worn, please make sure to bring your jewelry into the studio in an enclosed case like a plastic zip bag, and leave it in that case while in the studio.
Can I Start with a Ring?
Typically only with Septums, Daiths, and sometimes Lobes. Rings spin & move, and are more prone to getting bumped & snagged. This can delay healing and cause permanent scarring. If you’re considering a ring, discuss your goals with your piercer to get the best advice.
Why Do I Have to Have a Bead on My Starter Ring?
For piercings we do offer with a ring, the bead keeps the jewelry from spinning and ensures your piercing wound won’t try to heal into that seam. It can also act as a visual cue to ensure everything is intact during that healing process!
How Long Should I Wear My Jewelry?
Healing times vary based on how well you care for your piercing. It’s best to wait at least six months to a year before changing jewelry on your own. You can come see us for professional help with a Jewelry Change appointment in the meantime.
Can I Return or Exchange my Jewelry?
Due to the intimate nature of body jewelry, all sales are final—we’re unable to accept returns, exchanges, or offer refunds once jewelry has left the studio.
We always wait until the end of your service to complete your purchase. Before you head out, please take a moment to check your new jewelry—we want to make sure you’re completely in love with it before you leave!
HEALING & AFTERCARE
How Long Does a Piercing Take to Heal?
Healing times vary, but it typically takes longer than people expect– piercings are effectively a puncture wound with a “foreign object” trapped inside– your body will be responding to it for quite a few months!. Even after the swelling goes away, full healing can take over a year.
Not sure if it’s healed? Come in for a check-up consultation!
Something’s Wrong with My Piercing—What Should I Do?
Don’t panic! Make an appointment for a Check Up or stop by a studio as soon as you can. Avoid taking advice from the internet or well-meaning friends—our professional and experienced piercers are here to help.
What If I Think I Have an Infection?
Infections are rare, but possible. Come to the studio ASAP if something feels off. Intense redness, heat, or discharge might mean you need medical attention. Don’t take out your jewelry—it could trap infection inside your body.
Should I Use Peroxide or Antibiotics?
No! Chemicals do more harm than good. Stick to warm running water and sterile saline spray for cleaning your piercing. Our rule of thumb is: if you wouldn’t put it in your eyes, don’t put it in your piercing!
Should I Twist or Rotate the Jewelry?
Nope! Twisting is an outdated process that actually increases the risk of infection. Our jewelry is professionally polished and designed to stay put while your body heals around it. The less you touch and pull on it, the quicker you’ll heal!
Can I Eat/Talk Normally After an Oral Piercing?
It takes a little time to adjust, but you’ll be fine! Avoid spicy or acidic foods at first, and drink ice water to reduce swelling. Please downsize your jewelry as soon as possible– typically within 1-2 weeks.
LIFESTYLE / SPORTS
Will My Involvement in Sports Affect My Piercing?
Most referees prohibit jewelry, and removing your jewelry even for a short practice can put your piercing at risk of closing or worse– infection. Ideally, you’ll want to wait until after your sports season to get pierced. We offer jewelry options to make piercings a little less visible during healing, so come by for a chat!
Can I Go Swimming?
Unfortunately, no. Stay out of lakes, oceans, pools, and hot tubs until your piercing heals to avoid infections and chemical irritation. If you must swim, waterproof bandages may help; but use them with caution.
Can I Sleep on My Piercing?
Try not to! Sleeping on a piercing– especially ear cartilage– can slow healing and cause scarring. If you need help avoiding pressure, use a travel pillow to protect the area.
Can I Get Pierced While Pregnant/Nursing?
We can’t pierce anyone pregnant or nursing due to health risks. If you have a healed piercing, you likely won’t need to remove it! We have flexible jewelry options available for extra comfort as your body changes.
Is it Okay to get Pierced Before Going on Vacation?
We recommend waiting until after your vacation! You don’t want to deal with healing issues on your trip. Focus on the fun now—get pierced when you’re back home with direct access to your piercer and medical care.