Introduction

Piercing has become a common aesthetic procedure, but it remains invasive and carries real risks when performed improperly.
More and more people are getting pierced in non-professional settings — at home, by friends, or in jewelry stores.

Why is this dangerous ? What guarantees does a qualified piercer provide ? Here’s a guide to help you make the right choice, without unnecessary risk.

❌ The risks of non-professional piercings

1. DIY piercings

• No proper sterilization: tools may be cleaned, but they are not sterile.
• Placement errors: without anatomical knowledge, nerves or vessels may be damaged, or symmetry permanently lost.
• Unsuitable materials: sewing needles, costume jewelry, or clips not meant for piercing skin.

2. Jewelry store piercings

• Use of piercing guns: cannot be fully sterilized, leading to cross-contamination.
• Untrained staff: most employees lack proper training in anatomy or aftercare.
• Poor-quality jewelry: often made of non-surgical steel, nickel, or allergenic alloys.

✅ The benefits of choosing a professional piercer

1. Legal training

In Belgium, piercers must complete certified hygiene training through the
FPS Public Health.
This ensures proper knowledge of safety protocols, sterilization, and best practices.

2. Strict hygiene protocol

• Single-use sterile needles, opened in front of the client.
• Sterile, REACH-compliant jewelry (titanium, niobium, 14k gold…)
• Disinfected surfaces, clean gloves, and mask if necessary.

3. Personalized care

• Jewelry choice adapted to your anatomy and healing process
• A detailed written aftercare sheet
• Follow-up available in case of complications or questions

4. Ethics and consent

A good piercer never pressures you, respects your timing, and asks for
informed consent at every step.

📣 What professionals say

The studio Empreinte Piercing (Lyon) is a trusted voice on social media.
Their Instagram account shares reliable information on piercing risks, best practices, and the realities of the job:

👉 @empreintepiercing

Their approach reflects everything a professional piercer should be today: knowledgeable, trained, transparent, and attentive.

🙋‍♀️ What you should ask a professional piercer

• Can I see the sterile pouches before they are opened ?
• What material is the jewelry made of ? Is it REACH-compliant ?
• Do you provide written aftercare instructions ?
• What should I do if I notice redness, swelling, or something unusual ?

A trustworthy piercer will always answer these questions clearly and respectfully.
It’s your body, your health, your right to ask.

Conclusion

Choosing a professional piercer isn’t “being picky” — it means choosing:

• a safe procedure
• a lasting aesthetic result
• a healthy, supported healing process

Piercing isn’t a game or a passing trend — it’s a commitment between your body and the person you entrust it to.
Choose skill, not improvisation.