piercing FAQ
Frequently asked questions about piercings here at Near Me Tattoo
Common Questions
How old do I need to be?
Georgia law requires you to be at least 18 years old with valid photo ID to receive piercing services if coming in alone. Limited piercing services and options are available for those under the age of 18 and based on the piercer’s discretion.
Do I need a parent if I’m under 18?
Yes, in Georgia, minors need a parent or legal guardian present with ID for consent, as well as a copy of the minor’s birth certificate. Some piercings have higher age minimums (16+ for certain piercings). Our piercer will explain their policy when booking.
What is the best first piercing to get?
The absolute most popular and easiest starter is earlobe piercings. They heal quickly (usually 6 to 8 weeks), hurt the least, and are low maintenance. Other great beginner options include nostril (simple and subtle) or septum (if you want something bolder but still stylish). We recommend starting simple so you can learn aftercare without becoming overwhelmed.
Do piercings hurt?
It depends on the spot and your tolerance, but most first timers are surprised. It’s often described as a quick pinch or sharp pressure that lasts just a second or two. Earlobes feel like a strong pinch and something cartilage or nostril might rate 3 to 6 out of 10 in common discomfort ratings. The anticipation is usually worse than the actual moment, and it fades fast
What kind of jewelry is best?
Implant-grade titanium or solid 14k+ gold (nickel-free) is ideal as it’s biocompatible, lightweight, and minimizes irritation and allergies. Avoid cheap metals, plated jewelry, or anything with nickel. At Near Me Tattoo we only use APP approved standards for fresh piercings
Do you use a piercing gun?
At Near Me Tattoo our professional piercers uses a sterile, single use needle as it’s safer, causes less trauma, and heals better. Piercing guns (common at malls) are not recommended for most piercings as they can crush tissue and aren’t fully sterilizable.
Before Your Piercing
How do I prepare for my piercing appointment?
Eat a solid meal beforehand (low blood sugar can make you dizzy) and stay hydrated and bring a sugary drink. Bring valid ID, and let your piercer know if it’s your first time, they’ll walk you through everything going on. If you are under 18 years old, then a parent or legal guardian with valid ID and birth certificate of the minor is required.
What should I avoid before going in for my first piercing?
Avoid alcohol, recreational substances, aspirin, ibuprofen, or other blood thinning medications for at least 24 hours beforehand as these can increase bleeding during the piercing procedure. Don’t show up hungover, sick, or overly tired, as that can slow healing later. Skip caffeine overload if it makes you anxious, and don’t apply heavy makeup, lotions, or products near the piercing area (we’ll clean it anyway, but starting fresh helps). If you’re on any meds or have health concerns, mention them during the consult.
What should I wear and bring to my piercing appointment?
Wear comfortable, loose clothing that gives easy access to the piercing spot (a button-up or tank for ear piercings or nostril piercings, baggy pants for navel piercings). Avoid anything tight or restrictive that might rub the area later. Bring valid photo ID (required for everyone, and a parent or legal guardian if under 18 in Georgia). If you’re nervous, bring a supportive friend (most studios allow one in the room), a sugary drink, or even headphones for distraction. Have your mind set on what you want (placement and jewelry style), but we’re happy to chat options during the consult and during the procedure!
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What if I have allergies or sensitive skin?
Mention it during the consult. We’ll use hypoallergenic titanium and discuss options. Most reactions come from poor quality jewelry, not the piercing itself. Start with safe materials to avoid issues. If you have a latex allergy, let us know, we have nitrile and latex free disposables used during the procedure. Your comfort is our priority!
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During Your Piercing
What happens during the piercing process?
You’ll fill out a consent form covering your health, history, and waivers and our piercer will go over any questions or concerns you may have. The piercer sterilizes the area, marks the location allowing you to check placement, then uses a single use hollow needle to create the channel, inserts jewelry, and that’s it! The process is usually under 5 to 10 minutes total. Everything is opened in front of you for sterility.
What if I’m nervous or scared of needles?
Totally normal! Tell your piercer, they’re used to first timers and can talk you through it, offer breathing tips, or distract you. Many people feel a bit woozy at first, but it passes quickly. Bringing a friend for support is often helpful and recommended.
What does the actual piercing part feel like?
The needle part is the quickest bit. Usually a sharp pinch, pressure, or sting that lasts 1 to 3 seconds max, then it’s over. Many describe it as less intense than expected (like a hard flick or quick bee sting), and any discomfort drops off right away. Your piercer will often say “breathe in… and out” to time it with your exhale for the smoothest pierce. If you’re nervous, squeeze a stress ball, focus on breathing, or chat with your piercer, they’re a pro at keeping things relaxed.
Can I talk, move, or ask questions during?
Absolutely! feel free to chat, ask questions, or say if something feels off! Our piercer will encourage communication to make sure you’re comfortable. Stay as still as possible during the actual pierce (they’ll guide you), but you can breathe normally, squeeze your hands, or even listen to music if you brought headphones. If you feel faint or need a quick break, just say so and your piercer will pause and help.
Can I get more than one piercing my first time?
Yes, many do both earlobes or add a nostril. We limit based on your comfort and healing load. Start with 1 to 2 to keep aftercare easy. You can always come back for more!
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After Your Piercing
What is the aftercare like for beginners?
Super simple: Wash hands, then clean 2 to 3 times a day with sterile saline spray (like NeilMed Wound Wash). Let it air dry or pat gently, no twisting the jewelry, no alcohol or peroxide, no ointments. Shower rinsing helps too. Keep it hands off otherwise. We will send you our aftercare sheet digitally or you can also view it here. As always feel free to contact us at the shop if you have any questions or concerns.
Is there anything I should do right after the piercing?
Go straight home if possible, keep it clean and dry, and take it easy. Ice if swollen (wrap the ice pack in a clean paper towel), and eat something light. Celebrate, you just did it!
What should I avoid right after getting pierced?
No swimming (pools, lakes, oceans) for 4 to 6 weeks minimum. Skip makeup and hair products near it, tight clothes (for body), sleeping directly on it (use a donut pillow for ears), and changing jewelry early. Avoid touching or playing with it to prevent bacteria.
How long does it take to heal a piercing?
For basic piercings, Earlobes: 3 to 6 months. Nostril: 3 to 6 months. Septum: 3 to 6 months. Cartilage: 4 to 12 months. Healing is different for every individual and it is important to follow aftercare exactly, and be patient. Rushing changes can set you back in healing and cause complications.
Can I change or take out the jewelry soon after?
Not for healing, wait until fully healed (months for most). Early removal can cause closure or irritation. Well-healed lobes might stay open longer, but always assume it could close quickly. Keep jewelry in during healing. We can help you downsize (shorten) starter jewelry after swelling drops (usually 4 to 8 weeks) to make it more comfortable. We will have jewelry options in store for purchase.
What if something feels wrong after I leave?
Come back anytime for free check ups, we’re here for questions, bumps, or any concerns you may have. Most “issues” are normal healing, but we’d rather have you come in and let us check out the piercing than have you worry. Your first piercing should be a great experience! Contact us at any time through our contact page.
