How old do I need to be to get pierced?
You must be 16 or over for most piercings. Some placements require you to be 18. We will always ask for valid photo ID. Under 16s are not pierced under any circumstances — we do not offer piercings with parental consent for minors.
Do I need to eat before my appointment?
Yes — please make sure you have eaten a full meal within a couple of hours of your appointment. Low blood sugar is the most common cause of feeling faint after a piercing. Staying well hydrated also helps.
What should I wear?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that gives easy access to the area being pierced. For example, a loose top for a navel or nipple piercing, or a top with a low neckline for a collarbone or sternum piercing.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, you're welcome to bring one person for support. Our studio space is small, so we ask that you limit this to one guest. Please do not bring children to your appointment.
Do you pierce with a gun?
No. We use only single-use, sterile needles. Piercing guns cannot be properly sterilised and cause unnecessary trauma to the tissue. Needles are safer, more precise, and result in faster healing.
How long does a piercing take?
The piercing itself takes only a few seconds. Your full appointment — including consultation, jewellery selection, and aftercare advice — typically takes 20–40 minutes depending on the placement.
Does it hurt?
All piercings involve some discomfort. Most clients describe it as a sharp pinch that lasts a second. Our piercers work quickly and will talk you through every step so there are no surprises.
What jewellery will I be pierced with?
We pierce exclusively with implant-grade materials: ASTM F136 titanium, solid 14k or 18k gold, or implant-grade steel. All initial jewellery is internally threaded or threadless to minimise irritation.
Can I choose my jewellery?
Yes — we'll discuss jewellery options with you during your consultation. We stock a wide range of pieces from BVLA, Industrial Strength, and other world-leading manufacturers. Some placements have restrictions on initial jewellery size.
How do I clean my new piercing?
Clean your piercing twice daily with a sterile saline wound wash (0.9% sodium chloride). Spray directly onto the piercing and allow to air dry. Do not rotate the jewellery, use cotton wool, or apply any creams, oils, or antiseptics.
How long will my piercing take to heal?
Healing times vary by placement. Lobes typically take 6–9 months; cartilage piercings 9–18 months; navel piercings 9–12 months; nostril piercings 6–9 months. A piercing may look and feel healed before it is fully healed internally.
My piercing looks red and swollen — is that normal?
Some redness, swelling, and tenderness in the first few days is completely normal. If you notice increasing pain, significant swelling, heat, or discharge after the first week, please come in so we can assess it. Do not remove the jewellery if you suspect an infection.
Can I swim with a new piercing?
We recommend avoiding swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, and the sea for at least 4–6 weeks after a new piercing. These environments introduce bacteria and chemicals that can cause irritation or infection.
What is downsizing and when do I need it?
Initial jewellery is fitted longer or larger to accommodate swelling. Once the initial swelling has settled (typically 6–8 weeks), you'll need to return for a downsize — a shorter or smaller piece that sits flush to the skin. This is an important step that reduces the risk of snagging and irritation.
Can I change my jewellery myself?
We strongly recommend having your jewellery changed by a professional piercer, especially during the healing period. Attempting to change jewellery yourself in a healing piercing can cause trauma, introduce bacteria, and set back your healing significantly.
Do you sell jewellery without a piercing appointment?
Yes — you're welcome to visit the studio to browse and purchase jewellery. Our team can advise on appropriate pieces for your specific piercing and anatomy.
Do I need to book in advance?
We offer both walk-in services and pre-booked appointments. Walk-ins are welcome during opening hours, subject to availability. For specific piercings, complex placements, or if you'd like to guarantee a time slot, we recommend booking in advance.
What are your opening hours?
We are open Tuesday to Saturday 10:30am–5:30pm. On Thursdays we also offer a Late Night Service by appointment only. We are closed Sunday and Monday.
Can I book a piercing for someone else as a gift?
Yes — gift vouchers are available in-studio. Please note that the person being pierced must meet our age requirements and present valid ID on the day.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that you give us at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or rearrange your appointment. Late cancellations and no-shows may result in a deposit being forfeited.
Ready to book your consultation?
Walk-in and pre-booked piercing appointments in the heart of Carlisle. Tell us about your idea and we'll get straight back to you.