If you've ever considered getting a piercing, you might have memories of walking into a mall shop, choosing your favorite stud, and having it pierced with a piercing gun. It's a common experience, but there's more to piercing guns than meets the eye. In this article, we'll delve into the risks associated with piercing guns and why opting for professional piercing with a needle is a safer choice.
Inadequate Sterilization
Piercing guns, although seemingly convenient, cannot be adequately cleaned from the last client's bodily fluids. This poses a significant risk of microorganism and bloodborne pathogen transmission from one client to another. Unlike professional piercing equipment, plastic piercing guns cannot be sterilized by recognized medical methods like autoclaving. Even if the surface is wiped with antiseptic, the inner workings may still harbor blood particles, potentially causing infections.
In contrast, piercing needles are single use and sterile, ensuring a higher level of hygiene and safety.
Tissue Damage
Piercing guns use excessive pressure to force dull jewelry through the tissue, causing blunt force trauma. Sometimes, the gun's mechanism isn't strong enough for the jewelry, leading to unnecessary pain and complications. This is especially harmful when used on cartilage, resulting in shattering and severe scarring.
Piercing needles are very sharp and designed to create a precise and minimal opening, minimizing tissue damage. The sharpness of the needle reduces trauma and promotes faster healing.
Improper Jewelry Design
The "butterfly back" design of studs used with piercing guns can trap bodily fluids and bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. The one-size-fits-all approach can hinder proper drainage and healing, as everyone's anatomy is different. The jewelry can even be swallowed by the ear, since there is no room for swelling.
Professional piercers select jewelry that suits your specific anatomy, allowing for proper drainage and room for swelling and reducing the risk of infection. This personalized approach contributes to a healthier healing process.
Low-Quality Materials
Piercing guns and their accompanying jewelry are often made from low-quality materials that can cause irritation, infection, and improper healing. These mystery metals are far from the implant-grade materials used by professional piercers that reduce the risk of adverse reactions and complications during the healing process.
Lack of Proper Training
Operators of piercing guns often lack proper training and certification. Unlike professional piercers, those using piercing guns may not have the expertise needed to ensure safe and hygienic procedures - usually they start piercing after a short course on how to use a piercing gun.
Professional piercers are extensively trained in piercing techniques, sterilization, and aftercare. Their expertise minimizes the risk of errors during the piercing process.
Lack of Precision
Piercing guns are less precise than piercing needles. The bulkiness of the gun can lead to inaccurate placements, affecting the aesthetics of the piercing. Even a slight misalignment can result in complications.
Piercing needles allow for precise placement, ensuring that the piercing is accurately positioned according to your preferences. The precision reduces the chances of aesthetic issues.
In conclusion, while some people have had successful experiences with piercing guns, the risks they pose are substantial when compared to professional piercing with a needle. Safety, hygiene, and precision should be the top priorities when considering a piercing. Choosing a professional piercer with the right training and equipment is essential for a safe and successful piercing experience. Your health and well-being should always come first when making such decisions.