Piercers are NOT all alike; there is a very large differential in training, skills, abilities, ethics, and more between them. Delve into my blog for MANY pictures of those who did not choose their piercer carefully enough!
I used to pierce regularly around the US (before there was a global pandemic). Now I pierce in Detroit twice a year. All tour dates will be posted on my Appointments page. If you can't get to me me, (or wait for me) you should visit one of my recommended colleagues:
Other advice aside, one of the best things you can do to make good decisions about piercings is to read The Piercing Bible. You'll then be well qualified to evaluate and select a safe piercer who will do a great job. In fact, (unfortunately) you'll have a lot more knowledge than some "professional" piercers who are practicing in the field!
IMPORTANT!
Note that the piercers named in my list are specifically the individuals I refer to; other piercers in these studios might not have the same level of training or experience. Take this advice seriously!
If you don't see a referral in your area, it means that I don't have a piercer to suggest. You can check the website for a local member of the Association of Professional Piercers. The APP is a non-profit organization dedicated to disseminating vital health and safety information about piercing to piercers, piercees, medical professionals, legislators, and the general public. I'm a "Business-Member-at-Large," because I no longer have my own studio.
Members uphold a high level of hygiene and agree to use only quality jewelry in fresh piercings. The piercers are not "certified" by the organization, however, and the APP does not monitor the “artistic merit” of the piercer. Meaning, you can rest assured they’re using appropriate sterilization and hygiene protocols, and high quality jewelry. But membership does not guarantee that the piercer knows the best location for a piece of jewelry. Learn more about the membership criteria here.
While some of the members have taken my seminars at the annual APP conferences, they have not been "trained by me." Those courses last just a few hours and aren't sufficient for providing a thorough education. Before deciding to get pierced, please meet the piercer to see if you develop a good rapport and if they inspire your confidence.
Do your homework; I frequently receive emails from people who have gotten botched jobs by piercers who are supposedly skilled and experienced! You can see many of the photos on my blog.
I regularly refer clients to the piercers listed and have received substantial positive feedback. If you visit any of them, please feel free to contact me with your impressions.