Lobes, cartilage, eyebrows, septums, tongues…
Thanks to changing attitudes and waning dress codes the popularity of piercing has surged in recent years, offering individuals a new and creative way to express themselves. Whether it’s through gold, silver or jewelled adornments, what was once seen as extreme is now mainstream, leaving more Metro Vancouverites curious about piercings than ever before.
So curious that we’ve partnered with one of Vancouver’s only APP-approved studios, The Fall Tattooing & Piercing, to answer the most frequently asked questions about getting your first piercing.
If you’re thinking about taking the leap, keep reading—some of the answers may surprise you.
Where should I get pierced in Vancouver?
If you’ve ever considered getting your ears pierced at the mall, you might want to reconsider. Walk-in mall piercers typically use piercing guns, which, according to Matthew Masterton, Studio Manager and Piercer at The Fall, is essentially “blunt force trauma” for the ears. “Needles, on the other hand, are much sharper, making the experience faster and more precise”, according to Masterton. When it comes to choosing a piercing studio, professionalism and experience are also key; studios like The Fall employ only piercers who are members of the Association of Professional Piercers (APP), meaning they meet the highest standards in the industry. They’re also only one of three studios in Vancouver that are APP-approved.
Does getting pierced hurt?
Masterton says that the pain varies from person to person, but piercing generally feels like a quick, sharp sensation that lasts only seconds.
How long does a piercing take to heal?
Healing time depends on both the type of piercing and the individual. Earlobe piercings usually take 3 to 6 months to fully heal, while cartilage piercings can take up to a year or more. Certain jewellery, like hoops, may not be suitable until the piercing is fully healed, but your piercer will clarify any questions you may have after being pierced.
What should my first piercing be?
“People should only get pierced where they truly want to be pierced, but earlobes are a great first choice,” says Masterton. “Healing a simpler piercing can prepare you for more complex ones in the future.” Booking a consultation beforehand is a great way to ensure you feel confident in your decision, as Masterton also recommends considering your long-term jewellery goals and discussing them with your piercer beforehand. “If you’re eventually hoping for a small ring in your nose, for example, the piercer needs to know so they can place the piercing at the right angle and location.”
You can also check out the full list of The Fall’s 22 piercing options HERE.
How should I prepare for my first piercing?
According to Masterton, preparing for a piercing is simple: “Have a good breakfast, get a good night’s sleep and bring something sweet for afterward—you deserve a treat! Also, make sure to follow your piercer’s advice, not what you hear from friends or family.”
If you still have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact The Fall Tattooing & Piercing for more information. And if you’re feeling a bit nervous about your first visit, Masterton has one final piece of advice:
“Believe in yourself! If millions of other people can do this, so can you.”
To learn more about getting pierced in Vancouver, visit thefalltattooing.com
