by Keeley Nally-Taylor

Created on: January 17, 2011

So you have finally decided on the piercing that you want and you really excited about it...Now what? Well there are a few things to consider before you sprint off to the piercing studio and some piercing etiquette you should follow. Here is a list of do's and dont's on how to prepare for a body piercing;

DO Think carefully about where you want your piercing and talk the pro's and con's of the placement through with your piercer. Take into consideration your work or school uniform requirments on body jewelry. There's little point of going through the piercing process only to have your boss or head teacher tell you it must be removed.

DO Tell your piercer if you have any medical problems or allergies to minimise the chance of reactions. Your piercer must be informed if you have any blood disorders, HIV, AIDS or anything else that can cause problems.

DO Remember to bring your I.D to prove your age or a parent or guardian if you are under 18. After all that excitement it would be a disappointment if you were refused your piercing because you cannot prove your age.

DO Make sure you have something substantial to eat and something sweet to drink before the piercing is done. This raises your blood sugar levels and makes it less likely that you will faint.

DO Ensure that the area to be pierced and your body in general is clean as your piercer will be getting up close and personal. It's amazing how many people turn up with belly buttons full of fluff or request an ear piercing with ears full of wax. Although part of the piercing artist's job is to clean the area to be pierced, it isn't their job to keep you clean in general. Good hygiene practises are vital to help your piercing heal and are courteous to your body piercer.

DO Bring a hair clip or hairband if you are having an ear or facial piercing so the piercers view is not obstructed by your hair.

DO Bring a friend or parent with you to hold your hand if you are feeling scared. Most piercers are happy to let someone accompany you in the piercing room, but make sure the friend is not squeamish or prone to fainting.

DO Take an Ibuprofen an hour before you have your piercing. This will help with any pain or swelling you may have.

DON'T Taking paracetamol beforehand is a bad idea. This thins the blood and makes you more likely to bleed during the piercing process- not a pretty look.

DON'T Filming or taking photos on your mobile phone during the piercing process is not advised unless you have the piercing artist's permission beforehand. Not everyone wants to be a Youtube star.

DON'T Drink alcohol on the day or the night before. Alcohol thins the blood, and you don't want excessive bleeding now do you?

DON'T You should not touch anything in the piercing room unless requested by the piercer. It is a sterile environment and strict hygiene practises must be adhered to so that contamination can be avoided.

Hopefully with this advice you will be well on your way to an enjoyable piercing experience, good luck!

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