Questions to Ask Before Getting Pierced (Because Knowledge is Power... and Hygiene)
Getting a new piercing? Brilliant. Whether it’s your first or your fifteenth, one thing’s certain: the more you know beforehand, the better your experience will be. So, here are questions to ask before getting pierced.
And while Instagram inspo and late-night Pinterest boards are great, what really sets you up for piercing success is asking the right questions — before anyone touches a needle.
At Area 51 in Basingstoke, we believe a well-informed client is a confident one. That’s why we’ve pulled together a handy list of smart, respectful, and safety-focused questions to ask before getting pierced. Because the last thing you want is to realise you should’ve asked… while wincing in front of the mirror.
Why Ask Questions Before Getting Pierced?
Piercing is more than a style choice — it’s a minor medical procedure. Asking questions isn’t being difficult; it’s being smart. Great studios (like us!) will welcome your curiosity, explain the process clearly, and help you make informed decisions.
Benefits of asking questions:
- Avoid surprises: Know what’s coming before, during and after the piercing.
- Ensure safety: Confirm hygiene, sterilisation, and professional standards.
- Feel more confident: Reduce anxiety by understanding the steps.
- Spot red flags: Studios that dodge questions usually have something to hide.
The Essential Questions to Ask Before You Book
1. What sterilisation methods do you use?
This one’s non-negotiable. The studio should mention an autoclave — a high-pressure steam steriliser that kills all bacteria and viruses.
What you want to hear: “We use a hospital-grade autoclave and regularly test it.”
What to avoid: “We wipe everything down” or “We use a piercing gun — it’s fine.”
2. What type of jewellery do you use for initial piercings?
What you want to hear: “We only use implant-grade titanium for new piercings — it’s hypoallergenic, lightweight and safe.”
What to avoid: “We use what’s in stock” or “Just bring your own.”3. What qualifications or training does your piercer have?
Would you let an untrained stranger pierce your face? Thought not.
Ask about:
- Years of experience.
- Ongoing training.
4. What’s your policy on minors and age verification?
Any studio worth your time should strictly enforce age restrictions and require valid ID.
What you want to hear: “We follow all UK legal age requirements and always ask for ID — no exceptions.”
What to avoid: “It’s fine, we don’t really check.”5. Can I see your workspace and equipment?
A transparent studio is a trustworthy one. If you ask for a quick tour or to see the sterilisation setup, the answer should be “of course.”
Area 51 welcomes questions and will show you how we prep and sterilise — without hesitation.
If they seem annoyed or evasive, that’s your cue to leave.
6. What’s included in your aftercare guidance?
Healing doesn’t stop at the studio door. You should leave with:
- A printed or digital aftercare guide.
- Verbal instructions.
- Product recommendations (like saline spray).
- A contact number for concerns.
“We’ll walk you through aftercare, give you written instructions, and answer any questions.”
7. How long will it take to heal — and when can I change the jewellery?
Healing times vary massively. Any piercer should be able to give you realistic timelines and guidance.
“Cartilage takes 3–6 months; we’ll advise you when it’s safe to change.”
8. Do you offer check-ups or jewellery changes later on?
Piercings can shift, swell, or raise questions post-procedure. A good studio should be open to follow-ups.
“Yes — we offer free check-ins and can help change your jewellery once healed.”
Bonus Questions (If You’re Feeling Extra Informed)
- Do you offer numbing options? (Not always necessary or recommended).
- What’s your piercing gun policy? (The answer should be we don’t use them).
- What piercings do you recommend for first-timers?
- Can I bring a friend or parent?
- Do you do genital/nipple piercings? (Note: These require strict age and consultation policies).
FAQs From Nervous First Timers
Will asking questions annoy the piercer?
Only if they’re the wrong piercer. Professionals want you to feel informed. If they’re irritated by your questions, take your business elsewhere.
Final Thoughts: Ask First, Heal Happy
Getting pierced is personal — and permanent. So it’s worth doing right from the start.
Asking smart questions helps you:
- Stay safe.
- Avoid infection or trauma.
- Choose the right studio.
- Set realistic expectations.
At Area 51, we welcome every question (even the weird ones).
Whether you’re prepping for a lobe piercing or a septum adventure, we’ve got the answers — and the sterile gloves — ready.
Do you have questions to ask before getting pierced? We’ve got answers. Book a free consult and ask away — no dumb questions here.