10 Piercing Myths That Shouldn’t Exist Anymore
Let’s be honest — everyone has questions about piercings, but not everyone wants to ask them out loud. Whether you’re worried about sneezing mid-piercing or wondering if you can get pierced while on your period, we’re here to cut through the awkwardness. In this guide, we bust common piercing myths with a healthy dose of truth, no judgment, and a bit of Area 51 cheek.
Spoiler: Most of what your mate told you in Year 10 is absolute rubbish.
Myth 1: "You can't get pierced if you're on your period"
False. Menstruation doesn’t disqualify you from getting pierced. Your body might be slightly more sensitive, but it’s not dangerous. If you feel okay, you’re good to go.
Bonus tip: If you’re prone to cramping, maybe don’t book for Day 1. But overall? No problem at all.
Myth 2: "You can't swim for six months after a piercing"
Partly true. Swimming in pools, lakes, or hot tubs can introduce bacteria while your piercing is healing. But it’s not six months across the board. Healing time varies:
- Earlobes: 6–8 weeks.
- Cartilage: 3–12 months.
- Navel/Nipples: 3–6 months.
Wait until your piercing is fully healed and always rinse with saline if you swim.
Myth 3: "Numbing cream makes the process painless"
Not quite. Over-the-counter numbing creams dull surface sensation but not the deeper tissue. They can also interfere with piercing placement and technique. Most piercers don’t recommend it.
Bottom line: The pain is quick and manageable. You’ll be fine without numbing.
Myth 4: "Piercings always get infected"
False. Infection is rare with proper aftercare. What most people think is an infection is usually just irritation — caused by:
- Touching it too much.
- Sleeping on it.
- Wearing the wrong jewellery.
Follow your aftercare instructions, wash your hands, and don’t twist the jewellery “just to check.”
Myth 5: "Only teenagers get piercings"
Definitely false. Our clients range from 13 to 73. Piercings are for everyone, and age is just a number. Whether it’s your first at 40 or a tenth at 60, we love it.
Myth 6: "If it bleeds, something went wrong"
Nope. A little bleeding is totally normal — especially for areas with good blood supply like the nose, lips, or ears. Unless it’s excessive or continuous, it’s nothing to worry about.
If you’re unsure, give us a call or pop in. We’re here to check things over with zero judgment.
Myth 7: "You can’t breastfeed if you have a nipple piercing"
False. Nipple piercings don’t damage milk ducts. But you’ll need to remove the jewellery before feeding to avoid choking hazards. We recommend fully healing before or after pregnancy, as hormonal changes can affect healing.
Myth 8: "The more it hurts, the better it looks"
No correlation here. Pain doesn’t equal style points. Earlobe piercings are often the least painful and still look great. Cartilage and genital piercings tend to hurt more, but it all depends on anatomy and placement.
Choose what fits your vibe, not your pain tolerance.
Myth 9: "All metals are safe"
Wrong. Cheap or low-quality metals can cause allergic reactions, irritation, or prolonged healing. This piercing myth truly deserves to end. Stick to:
- Titanium (best for sensitive skin).
- Surgical stainless steel.
- Niobium.
Avoid mystery metal from online marketplaces unless you fancy a rash.
Myth 10: "Piercers judge your choices"
Absolutely not. Our job is to make you feel safe, informed, and supported. You want a daith and a lip ring? Great. Just one lobe? Also, great. There are no rules here except hygiene and consent.
Final Tips from the Area 51
Ask questions: No topic is too awkward. All piercing myths welcome to be busted.
- Bring ID: Always.
- Eat beforehand: Low blood sugar = drama.
- Skip the caffeine: It increases sensitivity.
- Bring a friend: Moral support is welcome.
Piercing FAQs
Can I exercise after a piercing?
Yes, but avoid contact sports and sweat-heavy workouts for a few days. Clean the area after.
What should I clean my piercing with?
Saline solution only. No alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or witch hazel.
How long should I wait before changing jewellery?
Until it’s fully healed. That varies by location, so check with your piercer.
Is it safe to get multiple piercings at once?
Yes, within reason. We’ll let you know what your body can handle.
Ready to Get Pierced?
Now that the piercing myths are out of the way, let’s get you booked in. Whether you’ve got a list of questions or you’re already picking jewellery, we’re here to help. Hit the booking link or drop into the Basingstoke studio.