Why Are Piercing Guns So Bad?

You’re thinking about getting a new piercing and may have considered using a piercing gun for a quick and easy procedure. But did you know that piercing guns can actually cause more harm than good?

Despite their popularity, piercing guns can lead to increased pain, swelling, and even infection due to blunt force trauma, imprecise placement, and inadequate sterilization. These drawbacks not only prolong the healing process but can also result in permanent damage.

In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons why piercing guns are bad and explore safer alternatives to ensure your new body modification is a positive and enjoyable experience. Say goodbye to piercing gun woes and hello to a healthier piercing journey!

What is a piercing gun?

A piercing gun or ear piercin gun is a handheld device specifically designed to create a hole in the skin and insert a piece of jewelry, such as an earring, nose stud, or other body adornments. It operates by using a spring-loaded or pneumatic mechanism to force a stud or other jewelry item through the skin in a quick and efficient manner. Let’s explore the two main types of piercing guns in more detail.

Types of piercing guns

• Spring-loaded guns

These are the most common type of piercing guns you’ll find, particularly in mall kiosks and some jewelry stores. The gun operates by using a spring mechanism to propel the jewelry through the skin. The user pulls back on a trigger, compressing the spring, and then releases it to push the jewelry forward. The main advantage of this type is its simplicity and accessibility, making it a popular choice for earlobe piercings.

• Pneumatic guns

These guns work on a slightly different principle, using compressed air to force the jewelry into the skin. This offers more control and precision than spring-loaded guns, resulting in a more accurate piercing. Pneumatic guns are typically found in professional piercing studios, where the operator has more experience and skill in handling this type of equipment.

The common risks associated with piercing guns

While piercing guns may seem like a quick and convenient option for body modifications, there are several risks associated with their use. It’s crucial to be aware of these risks before deciding to go ahead with a piercing gun.

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• Blunt force trauma

Piercing guns use blunt force to push the jewelry through the skin, which can cause unnecessary trauma to the surrounding tissue. This forceful action can lead to increased pain, swelling, and potential complications during the healing process, such as keloids or hypertrophic scarring.

• Inaccurate piercing placement

As mentioned earlier, piercing guns can be less precise than needles, making it challenging to achieve the exact placement desired. This can lead to off-center piercings or jewelry that doesn’t sit properly on the skin, causing discomfort and potential migration or rejection. In some cases, the jewelry may even be forced through a blood vessel or nerve, causing additional complications.

• Inadequate sterilization

One of the main concerns with piercing guns is the difficulty in sterilizing them properly. Many piercing guns are made of plastic, which cannot withstand the high temperatures of an autoclave – the gold standard for sterilizing medical instruments. This means that there is an increased risk of contamination and infection, particularly if the operator’s skill level and adherence to hygiene protocols are lacking.

• Increased risk of infection

The combination of blunt force trauma, inaccurate placement, and inadequate sterilization can significantly increase the risk of infection. Infections can be painful and may require medical intervention, leading to prolonged healing times or even permanent damage to the surrounding tissue.

• Allergic reactions

Piercing guns often use jewelry made from lower-quality materials, such as nickel or brass, increasing the likelihood of allergic reactions. This is especially concerning for individuals with sensitivities to certain metals, as they may experience itching, swelling, redness, or even an infection due to an allergic response.

• Prolonged healing time

The trauma caused by piercing guns can prolong the healing process, making it more difficult for your body to recover and increasing the risk of complications. In some cases, the healing process can take twice as long as it would with a needle piercing, which can be frustrating and uncomfortable.

Piercing gun vs. needle piercing

Piercing needles are generally considered safer and more precise than using a piercing gun. Using a hollow, sterilized needle, the piercer creates a small hole in the skin and inserts the jewelry. This method offers several advantages over piercing guns:

• Less trauma to the skin: Needles create clean, precise holes with minimal tissue damage, reducing pain and swelling.
• Faster healing times: Since there’s less trauma to the skin, the healing process tends to be quicker and smoother.
• Greater precision: A skilled piercer can accurately place the piercing, ensuring optimal results and reduced risk of migration or rejection.
• Better sterilization: Needles can be fully sterilized using an autoclave, greatly reducing the risk of infection.
• Higher-quality jewelry: Professional piercers typically use hypoallergenic materials such as titanium, surgical steel, or gold, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

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Are Gun Piercings Safe? Our Verdict

When it comes to getting a new piercing, safety should always be your top priority. The question on many minds is whether or not gun piercings are safe. After thoroughly examining the risks and drawbacks associated with piercing guns, our verdict is that they are not the safest option for body modifications.

Instead of using a piercing gun, we highly recommend opting for a professional piercer who uses the needle method. While gun piercings may seem convenient, they are not the safest choice. Prioritize your health and well-being by opting for a professional needle piercing, and enjoy a smoother, more successful piercing journey.

FAQ

Can I use a piercing gun for any type of piercing?

While piercing guns are commonly used for earlobe piercings, they are not suitable for other types of piercings, such as cartilage, nose, or navel piercings. The needle method is recommended for all piercings.

Are piercing guns safe for children’s ear piercings?

Although piercing guns are often used for children’s ear piercings, the risks and drawbacks still apply. It’s best to choose a professional piercer who uses the needle method to ensure a safer and more comfortable experience for your child.

How long does it take for a piercing to heal?

A: Healing times vary depending on the type of piercing and the individual’s body. Earlobes generally take 6-8 weeks to heal, while cartilage piercings can take 3-6 months or longer.

Can I change the jewelry right after getting pierced?

It’s essential to wait until the piercing has fully healed before changing the jewelry to avoid complications.

What hurts more, needle or gun piercing for the ear?

Generally, needle piercings are considered less painful than gun piercings. This is due to the needle creating a clean, precise hole with minimal tissue damage, while a gun uses blunt force, causing more trauma and discomfort.