Piercing at Claire's vs Professional Piercer: Age Limits and Recommendations

Have you ever been to the mall and heard the siren song of Claire's, the popular jewelry store that offers ear piercing services? It can be tempting to jot down your ear piercing wish list on a notepad or phone right there. But is it the best option?

Why Is Going to Claire's Not Recommended for Piercings?

It's important to note that ear piercings at a place like Claire's are not a good choice for a variety of reasons, and the biggest of those is that the staff who perform the piercing are not professional piercers.

Non-licensed Staff

Claire's and similar stores often employ part-time, minimum-wage workers who are not trained in proper piercing techniques. These staff members might not have the necessary sterilization and infection control training, which is crucial for preventing infections and ensuring that the piercing process is as smooth as possible.

Professional piercers, on the other hand, have years of training and experience in the field, making them the go-to experts for safe and high-quality piercings. They understand the importance of using the correct sterilization procedures and ensuring that the equipment is thoroughly sanitized before use.

Age Limits for Ear Piercing at Claire's

While Claire's does offer piercing services, the age limit for getting your ears pierced there can vary by location or even by the staff on duty. Some Claire's locations may require that you be older than 14 or 16 to get your ears pierced. However, it's ultimately up to the staff's discretion whether the piercing can go ahead, and they might refuse based on factors such as cleanliness and dramatic changes to the piercing process.

Choosing a Professional Piercer

The best option is to seek out a licensed piercer. These professionals have the knowledge and skills to ensure that your ear piercing is done safely and correctly. They will also be able to recommend the best type of jewelry to use in the piercing for a more comfortable and lasting result.

Before choosing a professional piercer, do your research. Look for individuals who specialize in ear piercings and those who have relevant training and certifications. You can find piercers through recommendations, online reviews, and local directories.

Professional Piercing Process

A professional piercer will follow a thorough and detailed process to ensure a safe and high-quality piercing. Here's what you can expect:

Consultation and Preparation

Health Check: They will ask about any medical conditions, allergies, or medications that might affect the piercing process.

Understanding the Process: They will explain the procedure, including the type of pain you might experience and what to expect after the piercing.

Cleaning and Sterilization: They will clean the area thoroughly and use sterilization equipment to ensure that the piercing site is free from contaminants.

Jewelry Selection: They will help you select the right jewelry for your piercing site, taking care to choose a high-quality, hypoallergenic option.

The Piercing Procedure

Administering Anesthesia: Professional piercers might offer local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort during the actual piercing.

Using Proper Tools: They will use sterile, disposable tools to ensure that there is no risk of infection.

Multiple Pierces: If you're getting more than one piercing, they will coordinate the piercings to avoid any complications.

Post-Piercing Care Instructions

Cleaning Recommendations: They will provide detailed instructions on how to clean the piercing site regularly to prevent infection.

Watch for Signs of Infection: They will advise you on what to look out for and when to seek medical help.

Follow-Up Appointments: If necessary, they might schedule follow-up appointments to check on the healing process and make any necessary adjustments.

Conclusion

In summary, while Claire's and similar locations might be convenient, it's strongly recommended that you seek out a licensed, professional piercer for ear piercings. Not only are their services more hygienic and safer, but they also offer a more personalized and professional experience that can lead to better results.

For those of you under 18, or even those who just want the best possible care for their ears, a visit to a professional piercer is the way to go. It's just another reminder that when it comes to your health and safety, it's always better to err on the side of caution.