Piercing Gun Vs Needle For Lobe Piercings: Which Is Better?

Ear piercings are a popular way to express yourself through body jewelry. But when it comes to lobe piercings specifically, should you get them done with a piercing gun or a needle? There are pros and cons to both methods that are important to consider.

If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer: Experts overwhelmingly recommend getting lobe piercings done with a sterile piercing needle rather than a piercing gun. Needles are safer, more precise, and better for healing than guns.

How Piercing Guns Work

Piercing guns are commonly used for lobe piercings due to their convenience and speed. These devices are typically made of plastic or metal and work by using a spring-loaded mechanism to forcefully push a stud or earring through the earlobe.

The process is relatively quick, with the gun being placed against the earlobe and the trigger being pulled to release the earring.

The Piercing Process

Using a piercing gun involves a straightforward process. First, the piercer marks the desired location for the piercing on the earlobe. Then, they position the gun against the earlobe and ensure that the earring is properly aligned.

Finally, they pull the trigger, and the earring is swiftly pushed through the earlobe. The entire process is usually completed in a matter of seconds.

It is important to note that piercing guns are typically designed for piercing the earlobe only. Attempting to use them for other areas of the body, such as cartilage piercings, can lead to complications and should be avoided.

Risks and Downsides

While piercing guns may offer convenience, there are several risks and downsides associated with their use. One of the main concerns is the potential for tissue damage. The forceful nature of the gun can cause trauma to the surrounding tissue, leading to increased pain, swelling, and a higher risk of infection.

Additionally, piercing guns cannot be properly sterilized between uses. This increases the risk of cross-contamination and the spread of bloodborne pathogens. Professional piercing studios often use sterile needles that are disposed of after each use, ensuring a lower risk of infection.

Furthermore, the jewelry used with piercing guns is usually made of lower-quality materials, such as stainless steel or plated metals. This can lead to allergic reactions or irritation in some individuals.

In contrast, professional piercers often use high-quality jewelry made from materials like titanium or surgical steel, which are less likely to cause adverse reactions.

How Piercing Needles Work

When it comes to getting a lobe piercing, many people wonder about the difference between using a piercing gun and a piercing needle. While both methods can achieve the desired result, there are some important distinctions to consider.

Let’s take a closer look at how piercing needles work and why they are often preferred by professional piercers.

The Piercing Process

Piercing needles are specifically designed for piercing procedures and are typically made of surgical stainless steel. They have a sharp, hollow point that allows for a smooth entry into the skin. The needle is sterilized before use to ensure a safe and clean procedure.

During the piercing process, the piercer will carefully mark the desired location for the piercing and clean the area to minimize the risk of infection. They will then use the piercing needle to create a small hole in the earlobe, allowing for the insertion of the jewelry.

The needle is quickly and efficiently inserted, minimizing discomfort for the client.

Benefits Over Piercing Guns

There are several benefits to using piercing needles over piercing guns. One of the main advantages is the precision and control that needles offer. The piercer can choose the appropriate gauge and length of the needle, ensuring a proper fit for the jewelry.

This allows for a more comfortable healing process and reduces the risk of complications such as excessive swelling or irritation.

Piercing needles also create a cleaner hole compared to piercing guns. The needle is sharp and precise, resulting in a more precise and less traumatic piercing. This can lead to faster healing times and a reduced risk of scarring.

Additionally, piercing needles are single-use, which means they are disposed of after each piercing. This helps to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and ensures a hygienic procedure. Piercing guns, on the other hand, can be difficult to completely sterilize and may pose a higher risk of contamination.

It’s worth noting that professional piercers often prefer using piercing needles due to their experience and expertise in working with this method. They are trained to handle the needles safely and efficiently, minimizing any discomfort for the client.

Healing and Aftercare

Cleaning and Hygiene

Proper cleaning and hygiene are crucial for the healing process of any piercing, whether done with a piercing gun or a needle. It is important to clean the pierced area twice a day using a saline solution or a mild soap.

Saline solution is highly recommended by professionals as it helps to prevent infection and promote healing. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide as they can be too harsh and may delay the healing process.Remember to always wash your hands before touching the piercing to avoid introducing bacteria into the wound.

Changing Jewelry

When it comes to changing jewelry for a lobe piercing, it is best to wait until the piercing is fully healed. This usually takes around 4-6 weeks for piercings done professionally with a needle. For piercings done with a piercing gun, it may take a bit longer to heal.

It is important to consult with a professional piercer before changing the jewelry to ensure the piercing has healed enough. They will also be able to guide you on the appropriate size and type of jewelry to use.

Avoiding Infection

Both piercing guns and needles have the potential to cause infections if proper aftercare is not followed. It is important to keep the pierced area clean and dry, avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands, and avoid swimming in pools or hot tubs until the piercing is fully healed.

If you notice any signs of infection such as excessive redness, swelling, discharge, or pain, it is important to seek medical attention. Do not remove the jewelry yourself as it may trap the infection inside.

Finding a Reputable Piercer

When it comes to getting a lobe piercing, finding a reputable piercer is crucial to ensure a safe and successful experience. Here are some factors to consider when looking for a piercer:

Licensing and Training

One of the first things to check when looking for a reputable piercer is their licensing and training. A professional piercer should have the necessary certifications and licenses to perform piercings safely.

They should have undergone proper training and be knowledgeable about the anatomy of the ear and the correct techniques for piercing. It’s important to ask about their qualifications and verify their credentials before getting a piercing.

Shop Reviews and References

Another important aspect to consider when finding a reputable piercer is to look for shop reviews and references. Reading online reviews and checking out the shop’s reputation can give you valuable insights into their professionalism and the quality of their work.

Look for reviews from previous clients who have had lobe piercings done at the shop and see if they had positive experiences. You can also ask friends or family members for recommendations if they have had successful lobe piercings in the past.

Additionally, it can be helpful to visit the shop in person and observe the cleanliness and hygiene practices. A reputable piercer will maintain a clean and sterile environment to minimize the risk of infections.

They should use sterile needles or piercing guns, and have proper sanitation procedures in place.

Remember, finding a reputable piercer is essential for a safe and successful lobe piercing. Take the time to research and choose a professional with the necessary licensing, training, and positive reviews to ensure a great piercing experience.

Jewelry Materials and Options

Metals to Avoid

When it comes to choosing jewelry materials for your new lobe piercings, there are certain metals that should be avoided due to the risk of allergic reactions or irritation. Nickel, for example, is a common allergen and can cause discomfort, redness, and itching.

Other metals to steer clear of include brass and copper, as they can also cause skin irritation. It’s important to consult with a professional piercer or dermatologist to determine if you have any metal allergies before getting your ears pierced.

Best Metals for New Piercings

If you want to ensure a comfortable healing process for your new lobe piercings, it’s best to opt for hypoallergenic metals. Surgical stainless steel and titanium are popular choices for new piercings because they are less likely to cause allergic reactions.

These metals are also durable and resistant to tarnishing, making them ideal for everyday wear. Additionally, gold (14k or higher) and platinum are hypoallergenic options for those with sensitive skin.

Remember to choose jewelry that is specifically labeled as hypoallergenic or made from these recommended metals.

Types of Ear Piercing Jewelry

When it comes to ear piercing jewelry, there are a variety of options to choose from based on your personal style and preference. Here are some common types:

• Stud earrings: These are the most basic type of ear piercing jewelry and are typically worn for lobe piercings. Studs consist of a decorative front and a back that secures the earring in place.
• Hoop earrings: Hoops are circular earrings that come in various sizes and designs. They can be worn in lobe piercings as well as cartilage piercings.
• Captive bead rings: These rings consist of a metal hoop with a small bead or gem that is held in place by the tension of the hoop. They can be worn in lobe and cartilage piercings.
• Barbells: Barbells are straight metal rods with a decorative end on one side and a screw-on ball on the other. They are commonly used for industrial piercings, but can also be worn in lobe and cartilage piercings.

It’s important to choose jewelry that is appropriate for the type of piercing you have and to clean it regularly to prevent infection. Remember, everyone’s body reacts differently to different materials, so what works for one person may not work for another.

Always consult with a professional piercer or dermatologist for personalized advice.

Conclusion

When weighing piercing guns against needles for lobe piercings, needles come out as the safer, more precise, and better healing option. By doing your research, finding an experienced piercer, and caring for your new piercings properly, you can avoid complications and achieve the look you want.

Piercing your lobes is an exciting way to accessorize your ears. With some knowledge about the tools and techniques used, you can get great results safely and comfortably.