Say no to the gun!

The Benefits of Using Needles for Body Piercing

Body piercing has become a popular form of self-expression and body art in recent years, with many choosing to adorn their bodies with piercings of various kinds. While there are different methods of piercing available, the use of needles is widely regarded as the safest and most effective technique. In contrast, piercing guns, which are often marketed as a quicker and less intimidating option, come with several drawbacks. This short essay will explore the benefits of needle use in body piercing and outline the reasons why piercing guns can be a poor choice.

Precision and Control

One of the primary advantages of using needles for body piercing is the precision and control that piercers can achieve. Needles, particularly those that are hollow, are designed to puncture the skin cleanly without causing excessive tissue damage. This precision ensures the piercing is made exactly where intended, resulting in more aesthetically pleasing and well-placed piercings. Piercing guns, on the other hand, use a mechanism that forces the jewellery through the skin, which can lead to improper placement and increased trauma to the surrounding tissue. Furthermore, the use of needles ensures the piercing channel is cleaner allowing for easier insertion of jewellery in the future.

The jewellery used in piercing guns, whilst claiming to be sharp, is blunt. This means piercing guns use blunt force to insert the jewellery. Needles, on the other hand very sharp. This allows the needles to glide through the skin resulting in minimal damage to the tissue. Professional body piercer Sergey Medvedev, based in Minsk, Belarus, demonstrates this amazingly in a video he posted to his Instagram (@dani_medvedev) back in 2020, shown below.

Reduced Healing Time

When needles are used for body piercing, the trauma to the tissue is minimised as compared to piercing guns. Needles create a clean hole rather than a blunt force injury, which allows the body to heal more efficiently. This can result in shorter healing times and a reduced likelihood of complications such as infection or scarring. Gun piercings can lead to more tissue damage, which can prolong healing and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Lower Risk of Infections and Complications

Needles offer a hygienic approach to body piercing. Professional piercers, including myself, use sterile equipment and follow strict sanitation protocols to minimise the risk of infection. Since needles are inserted in a way that reduces tissue damage, the likelihood of infection is lower. In contrast, piercing guns can introduce germs more easily and may not be as effective in promoting proper healing, making infections more likely.

Better for Various Body Locations

Needles are suitable for a wider range of body locations and types of piercings. Some areas of the body, such as cartilage, require a more delicate approach that needles are better equipped to handle. Piercing guns are primarily designed for earlobes and are not appropriate for other areas where the anatomy is more complex. The use of needles allows skilled piercers to cater to various preferences and body types more effectively.

Professional Standards and Experience

Most reputable piercers are trained professionals who understand the intricacies of body anatomy, hygiene, and aftercare. They prefer using needles due to their benefits and are more likely to provide a safe and positive experience. When using piercing guns, particularly in locations like mall kiosks, there may be a lack of experienced personnel, which can result in a higher risk of mistakes and complications. Those ‘trained’ to use piercing guns only receive half a day of training and practice on either teddy bears or cardboard ears. In my opinion, you cannot even learn the basic level of sanitation needed to perform a piercing in half a day, let alone the proper technique and aftercare.

Conclusion

In summary, the benefits of using needles for body piercing far outweigh the perceived advantages of piercing guns. Needles provide precision, reduce healing time, lower the risk of infections, and are adaptable to various body parts. Choosing a skilled professional who uses needles ensures a safer and more satisfactory piercing experience. For anyone considering body piercing, understanding the differences between these techniques is essential for making an informed decision that prioritises health and aesthetic quality.