Preparing for your piercing: what to know before you go

Getting a piercing is exciting, whether it’s your first or your tenth. A little preparation can make the experience smoother, calmer, and easier on your body, both during the appointment and throughout healing.

At Eir Piercing, we believe preparation isn’t about rules or pressure. It’s about helping you feel informed, comfortable, and confident before you sit down in the chair. Here’s what actually helps when getting ready for a piercing.

Start by choosing the right studio

Preparation begins long before your appointment. Where you get pierced matters just as much as how you prepare.

A professional piercing studio prioritises hygiene, clear communication, high-quality jewellery, and your comfort, not speed or volume. Feeling safe, unrushed, and informed has a real impact on how your body responds to the piercing.

Bring valid identification

All professional piercing studios require government-issued photo ID. If you’re under the legal age for certain piercings, check the studio’s age policy in advance and bring a parent or guardian if required.

This protects both you and the studio, and helps ensure consent is handled properly.

Know your medications and health considerations

Some medications and health conditions can affect healing or bleeding. If you take blood thinners, steroids, or immunosuppressants, it’s important to understand how they may impact your piercing.

Let your piercer know ahead of time so they can guide you appropriately. If you’re unsure, checking with your doctor first is always a good idea.

Avoid aspirin or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen before your appointment unless medically necessary, as these can increase bleeding.

Sleep, food, and hydration matter more than you think

Being well-rested supports your immune system and helps your body cope with stress and healing. Aim for a full night’s sleep before your appointment.

Eat a balanced meal about an hour beforehand. Arriving on an empty stomach can increase the risk of dizziness or feeling faint during the procedure.

Staying hydrated supports circulation and recovery, so drink water regularly in the hours leading up to your appointment.

Prepare mentally, not just physically

Feeling nervous is completely normal. Anxiety can heighten anticipation, but it doesn’t mean you’re not ready.

Take a few slow breaths before your appointment and remind yourself that professional piercings are fast, controlled, and done with intention. A calm environment, clear communication, and an experienced piercer do far more for comfort than rushing or pushing through fear.

If you’re particularly anxious, it’s okay to say so, a good studio will meet you where you are. We deal with people who are uncomfortable with needles all the time, and have experience with accomodating for different needs.

Timing matters if you have other procedures planned

If you have surgery or major dental work coming up, it’s usually best to wait before getting pierced. Your immune system can only do so much at once, and healing multiple wounds simultaneously may slow recovery.

Spacing procedures allows your body to focus fully on healing.

Think ahead about jewellery and aftercare

High-quality jewellery plays a big role in how well a piercing heals. Implant-grade materials and appropriate sizing reduce irritation and complications during the early healing phase.

Aftercare doesn’t start after the piercing, it starts with choosing a studio that explains healing clearly and supports you beyond the appointment.

Final thoughts

Preparing for a piercing isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about setting yourself up for a calm experience and healthy healing.

If something doesn’t feel right, ask questions. If you need more time, take it. A professional piercing experience should feel respectful, informed, and unhurried from preparation to aftercare.

FAQ

Do I need to eat before getting a piercing?
Yes. Eating beforehand helps prevent dizziness and supports your body during the procedure.

Can I get pierced if I’m nervous or anxious?
Absolutely. Let your piercer know how you’re feeling — a calm, supportive approach makes a big difference.

Should I avoid alcohol before a piercing?
Yes. Alcohol can increase bleeding and interfere with healing.

Does preparation really affect healing?
Yes. Sleep, nutrition, hydration, and stress levels all influence how your body heals.