The Dangers of Using Piercing Guns for Cartilage Piercings
Introduction
Cartilage piercings are a popular form of body art that can add a unique touch to one's look. However, there are concerns about the use of piercing guns for these delicate piercings. In this article, we will explore the potential dangers and complications associated with using piercing guns on ear cartilage and why many professionals recommend a needle instead.
How Piercing Guns Work
Piercing guns operate by pushing a blunt piece of jewelry through the tissue at high speeds. This method is commonly used for cartilage piercings, but it can be highly risky. The force applied by the gun can cause severe damage to the cartilage, leading to shattering, cracking, and other complications. Additionally, piercing guns are rarely sterilized and are often reused, increasing the risk of infection.
Complications Caused by Piercing Guns
Using a piercing gun for cartilage piercings can result in several issues:
Shattering or Cracking
The significant force applied by the piercing gun can cause the ear cartilage to shatter or crack. This can lead to intense pain, damage to the surrounding tissue, and a more complicated healing process.
Infection
Piercing guns introduce bacteria into the wound, increasing the risk of infection. Even if the gun itself is not properly sterilized, the act of pushing a blunt piece of jewelry through the tissue can introduce foreign bodies that can create an infection.
Improper Placement
It can be challenging to achieve proper placement with a piercing gun compared to a needle. The blunt and high-speed nature of the gun can make it difficult to place the piercing precisely, resulting in an uneven or undesirable result.
Healing Issues
Cartilage piercings generally take longer to heal than lobe piercings. The trauma caused by the piercing gun can further complicate the healing process, leading to prolonged irritation and discomfort.
Why Professionals Recommend Needle Piercings
Professional piercers often recommend using a needle instead of a piercing gun for several reasons. Needles are much cleaner and more precise, minimizing trauma to the cartilage.
Safe and Sterile Methods
Piercing needles come in sterile packaging and are intended for single-use. Professional piercers ensure that they use sterile needles for each piercing, reducing the risk of infection and other complications. Professional piercers have extensive training and mentorship to practice safe and sterile methods.
Is It Worth the Risk?
While some places like Claire's offer piercing guns, many of the employees do not have actual experience in body piercing. These workers may be retail-oriented and lack the necessary training to perform safe and sterile piercings. On the other hand, professional piercers go through extensive training and mentorships to ensure they practice safe and sterile methods.
Personal Accounts
The author of this article, who got their first lobe piercings done with a gun, had to deal with infections and a slow healing process. It is crucial to consider the potential risks when opting for a piercing and choose a professional with experience.
Conclusion
The risks associated with using piercing guns for cartilage piercings are significant. Whether it is the risk of shattering, cracking, infection, improper placement, or healing issues, there are safer and more reliable methods available. Seeking out professional and experienced piercers can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable piercing experience.