Have Questions?
Below are our most frequently asked questions, organized into dropdown menus. Simply click on the question that interests you to see more information.
If your question isn’t covered here or on our Before You Book: Important Info page, feel free to call or text us—we’re happy to help!
The top three most asked questions are listed first, followed by the rest for easy browsing.
Top Three Most asked Questions!
What to Do for an Infection or Bump
If your piercing looks infected or has a bump (not a keloid), we recommend healing soaks to help your body naturally clear the irritation. It’s important to keep the earring in during treatment — removing it can trap the infection inside and make healing more difficult.
Healing Soaks
This method uses your body’s natural salinity to help flush out bacteria and promote healing. Proper saline concentration is crucial, so we recommend using OceanMist Piercing Aftercare Spray if possible.
How often: Soak your piercing 3–5 times daily for 3–5 minutes until the irritation subsides.
Using OceanMist Piercing Aftercare Spray:
- Spray some aftercare solution into a glass cup.
- Heat it in the microwave for about 10 seconds (warm, not hot).
- Dip a sterile cotton ball into the warmed solution.
- Place the soaked cotton ball gently against your piercing.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
Making Your Own Saline Solution:
- Pour 1 cup of warm, sterile water into a clean cup.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt or pink Himalayan salt and stir until fully dissolved.
(Avoid using too much salt — a stronger solution can irritate your skin.) - Dip a sterile cotton ball into the saline solution.
- Place the soaked cotton ball on your piercing.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
Important Tips:
- Never clean your piercing with alcohol, peroxide, creams, soaps, or ointments.
These can damage the skin, burn the piercing, trap dirt or fibers, and delay healing.
General Aftercare Guidelines:
- For the first two months, clean your piercing twice daily (morning and night).
- If irritation occurs later, continue cleaning regularly.
- Clean your piercing any time it comes into contact with potential irritants — after bathing, applying lotions or hair products, or wearing hats.
For more detailed aftercare information, please click the button below to visit our Aftercare Page.
What Is The Aftercare Process?
Piercing Aftercare
If you have a fresh piercing or are researching before getting one, check out our recommended piercing aftercare below! Proper care is essential to prevent infection and ensure optimal healing.
If your piercing appears infected or has a bump, in addition to following the normal aftercare, you should do Healing Soaks. You can find step-by-step instructions for these in the "What to do for an infection or bump?" section of our FAQ page.
Keep in Mind:
Healing Time:
• Lobes: 2 months
• Cartilage: 6-12 months
Earring Removal:
Avoid removing earrings for 1.5–2 years to prevent closure.
Daily Cleaning Instructions
At Least 2x Per Day the duration of the healing time
1. Wash Hands
- Ensure your hands are clean before touching the piercing.
2. Clean Both Sides
- Use aftercare products to clean the front and back of your piercing.
3. Move Earrings Gently
- Push the earrings forward to expose the post. Do not twist the earrings
4. Clean the Post Area
- Apply aftercare solution to the post and surrounding area to let it soak in. Then, push the earrings back until they sit flush against the ear.
Tip: Regular cleaning prevents irritation and ensures healthy healing!
Recommended Cleaning Products:
Recommended Cleaning Products:
• MediPierce Piercing Aftercare products.
• Sea Salt Solution: Dissolve 1/8–1/4 tsp non-iodized sea salt in 1 cup of warm distilled water. Mix fresh each time.
What to Avoid:
- Alcohol, creams, soaps, or ointments.
- Over-cleaning (can irritate healing).
- Cosmetics, lotions, or sprays near piercing.
- Submerging in pools, lakes, or hot tubs 5 days after piercing.
- Sleeping on the piercing. ( Use a travel pillow to sleep on your side )
- Trauma: Avoid friction from clothes, glasses, hair or excessive motion.
Important Notes:
For temporary removal (e.g., X-rays, sports), use plastic retainers anytime before the piercing is permanent.
Do you pierce with the gun?
We don’t use piercing guns; we are a disposable studio, and guns are not disposable and can’t be sterilized. Guns are also very painful. We pierce with either the cartridge piercing system or a disposable needle.
Cartridge piercing system
Our medical piercing device, preferred by the American Medical Association, provides a safe and precise ear piercing experience. Unlike traditional spring-loaded piercing guns, which cannot be fully sterilized, our system uses prepackaged, sterilized, disposable cartridges to ensure maximum hygiene. The device is manually operated with gentle hand pressure, allowing for a more controlled and comfortable piercing process.
The procedure takes only a few seconds, with the option to pierce one ear at a time or both simultaneously for individuals aged 4 and up, as long as they can remain still.
Needle piercing system
Our needle piercing method, preferred by the Association of Professional Piercers, is just as precise as our medical piercing device but slightly quicker.
We use a disposable hollow catheter needle, which passes through the ear, leaving a plastic catheter in place. The back of the earring is then inserted, the catheter is gently removed, and the jewelry is secured—either by snapping on the front for flat-back studs or closing the hoop for seamless earrings.
The process takes about a minute per ear and is performed one at a time. We primarily use flat-back studs or seamless hoops for these piercings. For flat-back piercings, we use a longer post to accommodate swelling, and once the piercing has healed, you have the option to return for a post downsizing if desired.
With a cartridge the piercing, insertion of the stud and back are all carried out in a split second whereas with a needle piercing all 3 stages are done separately.
FAQ Questions
Can we re pierce with the original earring we pierced with?
Unfortunately, we cannot re-pierce using the original earring, as we are a disposable studio. All of our earrings are pre-packaged in single-use, sterile cartridges that are designed for one-time use only and are discarded after piercing to ensure the highest standard of hygiene.
Since previously used earrings are no longer sterile, reusing them for piercing could introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection.
If you're re-piercing one ear from a pair, you have two options:
- Re-pierce with a single matching earring (if available), or
- Choose a new pair, and we’ll pierce with one and swap the other so they match perfectly
Your safety is always our top priority, and we’re happy to help you find the best option!
Can we bring guests
Guests for Appointments
We understand that ear piercing can be a meaningful moment, and we welcome support during the appointment. However, please keep in mind that we are a small studio, and space is limited. Keep in mind a parent or legal guardian must be physically present at the appointment for any minor receiving a piercing.
For Adults Being Pierced:
- Up to two adult guests may accompany you during their piercing.
For Minors Being Pierced:
- Up to two adult guests may accompany a minor during their piercing.
- Only two adults may be in the piercing room with the child during the procedure. This ensures our piercer has enough space to work safely and comfortably.
- If a third adult would like to attend for support, we can typically accommodate one additional guest standing in the hallway just outside the piercing room. They will still be able to observe the appointment but may not be directly inside the room.
- If the child prefers to have a peer or friend accompany them instead of one adult, we’re happy to allow this as long as the friend is well-behaved and respectful of the space.
Additional Guests:
- We do have a small garden area in the back of our studio where extra guests are welcome to wait, weather permitting.
- Please note that large groups cannot be accommodated inside the studio due to space and safety limitations.
Bringing Additional Children:
- If you need to bring other children with you because childcare is unavailable, that is okay as long as they are well-behaved and remain under the supervision of a parent or another adult.
- Our staff cannot watch additional children during the appointment, and for health and safety reasons, children must not be left unattended at any time.
- It is essential that we maintain a sterile, calm environment to ensure the safety and focus needed during the piercing.
We do our best to be flexible and accommodating, so if you have a unique situation or special request, feel free to contact us in advance—we’re happy to work with you whenever possible!
What should I expect when I go to the studio?
When you arrive, our staff will greet you and check you in. If you’d like to have the area numbed before your piercing, please let us know at check-in.
For clients under 18, please review our Numbing Information Page in advance — there are specific requirements and restrictions, and we cannot apply numbing cream if those requirements are not met.
Numbing Options
- Full Numbing:
Arrive 20 minutes early so we can apply the numbing cream. Let staff know upon check-in. While the cream takes effect, you're welcome to wait in our garden (weather permitting) or step out and return at your scheduled appointment time.
- Partial Numbing:
Arrive at your scheduled time. We’ll apply the cream during check-in while you choose your earrings and review aftercare instructions.
Once checked in:
- You'll be shown our earring display so you can choose the perfect pair for your new piercing.
- Next, we’ll guide you to the piercing room, where we’ll: Go over aftercare in detail, answer any questions, Clean and mark your ears carefully to confirm the placement, Proceed with your piercing when you're ready
After the piercing:
- You’ll check out and receive printed aftercare instructions
- We offer a nursing section and changing station for families who may need them
- We have a photo wall in the back if you'd like to take photos!
- And you can checkout at the front counter
For kids:
- We make it fun! Every child gets to pick a prize from our treasure box, choose a sticker, and receive a "Super Brave Kid" certificate with their name on it
And don’t forget: 🎉 After your appointment, enjoy 20% off at Smusht, the ice cream sandwich shop right across the street — it’s our little treat to celebrate your new sparkle!
Do you have parking in front of your store?
Yes! There is plenty of street parking available right in front of our store. Please note that it is metered parking.
You can pay using:
- Quarters, or
- The "Passport Parking" app
Since most appointments last 15–30 minutes, a single quarter is usually enough to cover your time.
What should I do to prepare myself or my child for piercing?
For Everyone:
- Get a good night's sleep the night before your appointment.
- Eat a light meal at least 6 hours before your appointment. Not eating can cause low blood sugar, which may lead to lightheadedness, fainting, or increased bleeding.
For Adults:
- Avoid alcohol the night before and day of your piercing. Even small amounts can slow healing and thin your blood.
- Limit caffeine and energy drinks on the day of your appointment, as they can increase restlessness and affect your body’s response.
- Avoid pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medication (like ibuprofen) before your appointment. These are best used after if needed.
For Children:
- Let them know that the experience is quick and positive, with or without numbing, it feels like just a quick pinch.
- If your child’s pediatrician approves lidocaine, we can numb their ears and even pierce both at once for children 4 and up (if they can stay still).
- If they’d like to bring a friend for support, choose someone who will encourage them, not scare or pressure them.
- Watching videos on our social media of happy kids getting pierced can be a great way to ease nerves and show them what to expect.
For Babies:
- Make sure your baby is well-fed and has a clean diaper before the appointment.
- Babies are sensitive to your mood, stay calm and relaxed, and they’re more likely to stay calm too.
Preparing ahead of time can make the experience smoother and more comfortable for everyone!
What age do we recommend piercing?
We offer piercings for all ages, but the best time can vary depending on the child and family preferences.
Infants (6 Months and Under):
We often recommend piercing before 6 months of age, as babies at this stage are less likely to notice or touch their earrings. Earlier piercing can help minimize awareness and handling of the new jewelry.
Toddlers (11 Months to 3 Years):
This age range can be more challenging. Toddlers are typically more active, aware, and strong-willed. While we’ve successfully pierced many toddlers, we do provide a specific disclaimer for this group:
- If your child shows resistance, cannot sit still willingly, or seems likely to pull at their earrings or refuse aftercare, we may recommend waiting until they are older.
- We do not allow restraint during piercing. If the child is unable to participate calmly, we will not proceed for their comfort and safety.
- If earrings are pulled out or lost, new ones must be purchased to re-pierce.
Children Old Enough to Participate in Aftercare:
For many families, waiting until a child is old enough to understand and assist with aftercare is ideal. This ensures a smoother healing process and a more positive experience.
Our goal is always to provide a safe, stress-free, and supportive environment, no matter your child’s age. If you're unsure whether your child is ready, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help you decide!
Can you pierce simultaneously?
Yes, we do offer simultaneous ear piercings for certain age groups, depending on the method used and the child’s ability to stay still.
Ages 4 and Up:
We can pierce both ears at the same time using our disposable cartridge system if the child is able to sit still for the few seconds required. If the child is moving too much and it may affect placement, we will pierce one ear at a time to ensure safety and symmetry.
Ages 3 and Under (Infants & Toddlers):
Simultaneous piercings are usually not possible for this age group, as they typically can’t remain still. In these cases, we:
- Distract the child with a toy or video,
- Pierce one ear
- Then quickly follow with the second before they become fully aware.
This approach helps keep the process as smooth and quick as possible.
Needle Piercings:
Needle piercings must always be done one ear at a time. This method takes about a minute per ear and cannot be performed simultaneously.
For more details about the different methods we offer, please visit our "Prices and Piercing Systems" section under "Get Pierced."
When can I change the earrings & how long do i need to keep earrings in?
The length of time you should keep your initial earrings in depends on the piercing location and your healing progress. For earlobe piercings, you can typically change earrings after two months, and for cartilage piercings, after six months, provided there are no complications. If you're experiencing issues, it's best to leave them in longer. Piercings take about two years to fully heal, so be mindful that they can close quickly if left out before that time. If you need to remove your jewelry for medical reasons, consider using plastic retainers to keep the piercing open.
How long before you can change them?
The earrings you pierce with have to stay in for a minimum of two months for piercings on the ear lobe or 6 months for cartilage piercings before you can change to a new earring, around the two month mark when removed you have about a minute before the earrings will completely close when left with nothing in them.
How long before the piercing is permanent?
You need earrings in 24/7 for 2 years before you can be without earrings, prior to this point when removed the piercings will start closing up over time and the closer you are to the piercing date the less time it takes to close.
What if you need to remove them?
If you have to remove the earring for a prolonged period or time for something such as sports, photos, interviews, surgeries, x-rays, etc. there are plastic retainer earrings you can put in as placeholder to ensure the piercing does not close, though we still recommend waiting till the 2 month mark before attempting this.
Do you numb the ears?
Yes, we do offer numbing for piercings!
We use a 5% topical lidocaine cream to help reduce discomfort during the piercing process.
Important Note for Minors (Under 18):
There are age restrictions and specific requirements we must follow in order to apply the numbing cream to anyone under 18 years old. Because this is a pharmaceutical product, safety protocols must be followed.
Please refer to our Numbing Information page to see what applies to your age group and appointment. If requirements are not met, we will not be able to apply numbing cream at the time of your visit.
You are also welcome to apply numbing cream at home before your appointment, but be sure to follow the instructions on your product carefully—including any timing requirements—to ensure it's effective and safe.
Can you pierce with earrings we bring?
No, we are only able to pierce with our own earrings.
All of our earrings come pre-packaged and sterilized specifically for safe, hygienic piercing. Earrings brought from outside sources cannot be used, as we cannot guarantee their sterility, material quality, or safety.
Using our earrings ensures a sterile, professional procedure and helps minimize the risk of infection or allergic reaction.
Do you do anything specific for kids?
Absolutely! We strive to make every child feel comfortable, celebrated, and proud during their visit.
After their piercing, each child receives:
- A “Super Brave Kid” certificate with their name on it
- A choice from our prize baskets
- A lollipop
- Fun stickers to take home
- And an exclusive 20% discount at Smusht, the homemade ice cream sandwich shop right across the street!
Birthday Bonus:If your child is visiting on their birthday, we have birthday ribbons or tiaras available! Just let us know when you arrive, and they can choose whichever they’d like to make their day even more special.
Can you go swimming after getting your ears pierced?
We recommend waiting at least 5 days after your piercing before swimming in pools, lakes, oceans, or hot tubs. These environments can expose your fresh piercing to bacteria and increase the risk of infection.
After the initial 5-day period, if you do go swimming, make sure to:
- Rinse your ears thoroughly with clean water afterward
- Clean your piercings with your aftercare solution as soon as possible
Keeping your piercings clean and dry is key to proper healing.