Q: How do I find a reputable piercer in my area?

A: Use the directory at safepiercing.org or utilize the search function to search the group. If you can’t find someone after doing these two things, go ahead and make a post.

 

Note: this group is not in any way affiliated with the Association of Professional Piercers, and though many members here are APP members, the Association and this group are completely different entities.

 

Q: How do I know a piercer is good/safe/reputable?
A: The Association of Professional Piercers has a pamphlet to help with choosing a piercer. This can be found here.

 

Q: Does a piercer have to be a member of the APP to be good?

A: No. The Association of Professional Piercers is an organization dedicated to health and safety, not a skills organization. It does not “certify” anyone to be of a certain skill level, nor does it regulate piercing technique. That said, we generally suggest checking the APP locator first because if a piercer cares enough to be compliant with APP minimum standards, they probably care enough to be decent at their job. Being an APP member also means they should be using safe jewelry. It is still your responsibility as a client to check portfolios and do your own due diligence.

 

Q: My piercer has APP certificates/says that they’re certified but isn’t on the website! What does that mean?
A: Only current APP members are listed on the website. Best case scenario, your piercer has attended an APP conference and has certificates from that on display. This conference is open to everyone in the industry, but attendance does not make someone a member. Worst case scenario, they are lying to you if they are telling you that they are “certified” and they aren’t listed on the website.

 

Q: I want to become a piercer. How do I get into this line of work?

A: An apprenticeship is the only way to become a piercer. There is a huge amount of interest in becoming a body piercer, and plenty of less-than-stellar people who take advantage of that for a quick payday or worse. The APP has guidelines on apprenticeships that can be found here. At the moment, there are no good schools or trade programs that prepare one to be a piercer, however taking basic anatomy, microbiology, and business classes won’t ever hurt.

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Q: My piercer has a lot of good reviews but you're telling me they aren't reputable. What gives?

A: When we use the term "reputable piercer" or "reputable studio", we specifically mean someone who meets if not exceeds the industry standard as far as using safe jewelry, advising up to date aftercare, and uses safe techniques. People leave reviews for a myriad of reasons, and there are plenty of piercers who have great bedside manner or give good deals that are also not good at their job, or use substandard jewelry or aftercare.

 

Q: I am a piercer and I have questions

A: This forum is meant as a resource for clients and we don’t discuss trade info here. If you’d like to get into a professional forum, reach out to one of the admins and we can direct you.