The Hidden Cost of Cheap Piercings: What You’re Really Paying For
Thinking of getting a piercing and wondering if a cheaper studio is just as good? It might seem like a smart way to save, but the reality is that low-cost piercings often come with hidden risks, both to your health and your wallet. From poor-quality jewelry to inexperienced piercers, the long-term costs of a cheap piercing can add up quickly. In this guide, we break down why quality matters and how choosing a professional piercer with safe materials is worth every cent.
Poor-Quality Jewelry Can Cause Reactions, Rejection, or Removal
Many budget studios use jewelry made from mystery metals or low-cost alloys that aren’t safe for fresh piercings. Common culprits include nickel or poorly coated brass, which can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, or even full rejection of the piercing.
At Eir, we only use APP-compliant materials, all biocompatible and ideal for healing.
Why it ends up costing more: You may have to remove the jewelry, treat a reaction, or pay for a replacement piece that should have been used from the start.
Infection Risks Are Higher With Poor Hygiene and Tools
One of the biggest dangers with cheap piercings is infection. Studios offering rock-bottom prices often cut corners on sterilisation, cleanliness, or tool maintenance—all of which are critical in preventing bacterial contamination.
Infections can lead to swelling, pus, scarring, or in extreme cases, hospital visits.
Why it ends up costing more: You might face medical bills for antibiotics or wound care—and some damage can be permanent.
Inexperienced Piercers Can Cause Lasting Damage
Cheap services often mean rushed training or no formal qualifications. An inexperienced piercer may pierce at the wrong angle, place the piercing too deep or too shallow, or use techniques that increase trauma to the tissue.
Why it ends up costing more: Botched piercings often need to be retired, re-pierced, or medically treated—each step costing more than a professional piercing would have in the first place.
Slower Healing and More Scarring
Subpar tools and improper technique can prolong healing times. A piercing that should heal in a few months might stay irritated or inflamed for much longer, especially if aftercare instructions are poor or missing.
Why it ends up costing more: Longer healing means more aftercare products, more check-ins, and a higher risk of visible scarring.
Redos and Repairs Are Surprisingly Common
It’s not unusual for people to come to piercers after a bad experience elsewhere, seeking help for a failed piercing or hoping to redo one that didn’t heal right. Unfortunately, some piercings can’t be safely re-pierced in the same spot.
Why it ends up costing more: Paying for a redo (and all the healing that comes with it) often costs more than getting it done properly the first time.
Bad or Outdated Aftercare Advice Makes Things Worse
Some studios still hand out outdated or even harmful aftercare instructions, like using alcohol or homemade saltwater. At Eir, we only recommend evidence-based options like sterile saline or hypochlorous acid.
Why it ends up costing more: Improper aftercare can lead to infections, irritation, or permanent damage, requiring professional correction.
Limited Jewelry Options That Don’t Support Healing
Cheap studios usually carry low-cost, mass-produced jewelry that may not fit your anatomy or allow for swelling during healing. You may not get the right size, style, or material for a smooth recovery.
Why it ends up costing more: You’ll likely need to upgrade or replace it anyway, or risk complications from wearing unsuitable jewelry.
Final Thoughts: Invest in Quality From the Start
A piercing is an open wound, it deserves clean tools, skilled hands, and materials your body can trust. Choosing a cheap studio may save money in the moment, but the long-term cost of fixing problems can quickly surpass the price of a safe, professional service. Your body deserves better than bargain-bin care.
At Eir Piercing, we combine medical-grade hygiene with aesthetic expertise. Our team is trained, continuing education and learning, experienced, and deeply committed to your safety and satisfaction. We use only high-quality, implant-grade jewelry and take the time to ensure every piercing is placed with precision and care. Whether it’s your first piercing or your tenth, we’re here to make the experience empowering, elegant, and built to last. There will be news about our opening soon, I promise!
Just a small FAQ to please the AI-gods:
Are cheap piercings safe?
Not always. Cheap piercings can involve unsafe materials, poor hygiene, or inexperienced piercers, increasing the risk of complications.
What is the best jewelry for new piercings?
Implant-grade titanium, solid gold (14k or higher), or surgical steel (ASTM F-138) are safe choices of material for initial healing.
Why do professional piercings cost more?
Quality materials, proper sterilisation, skilled piercers, and aftercare support are all part of a professional service. You’re paying for expertise and safety.