Everything You Need to Know Before You Get a Micro Dermal Piercing

Piercings are a lot of fun and there are so many types to choose from, including micro dermal piercings. They’re similar to tattoos in the fact that they can become an addiction. Some people get one and immediately want another. I see you! That’s fine, you’re allowed to get as many piercings as you want, as long as you do it responsibly and educate yourself about every single piercing you’re interested in. 

That’s why today we’re talking about micro dermal piercings! If you’re reading this, it’s because you’re interested in getting one and you’re already on the right track. Your first step should always be to read up and understand the kind of piercing you’re planning on getting. 

Micro dermal piercings, also known as dermal piercings, are quite popular and that’s because they can be placed on any flat surface of the body. This provides a ton of opportunity because people are able to pierce parts of the body that would otherwise be challenging to pierce. Without further ado, let’s learn everything you need to know before you get a micro dermal piercing!

An Introduction to Micro Dermal Piercing

Also known as dermal piercings or single-point piercings, this kind of piercing lies flat against the skin. This effect is accomplished because the micro dermal piercing doesn’t require a separate entry and exit point; it’s installed under the skin instead. The anchor of a dermal piercing is 6 to 8 inches long and the top will sit on the surface of the skin. 

This kind of piercing is quite different from cartilage piercings because it doesn’t pierce through the skin. The benefit here is that it allows people to get a piercing on flat surfaces of the body, which is something that’s difficult to do with other piercings. The drawback is that dermal piercings are more challenging to change, clean, and care for because it’s essentially embedded into the skin. 

Micro dermal piercings are not to be confused with surface piercings, where a barbell is inserted through the skin so the middle of the barbell is under the skin and the ends are fully visible. Make sure you’re clear about this with your professional piercer to eliminate any possible confusion. 

Micro Dermal Piercing Pain Level and Healing Time

All body modifications involve some pain, that’s not a surprise to anyone. However, some modifications are more painful than others. Micro dermal piercings are somewhat painful, so you’ll feel some discomfort while you’re getting it done. Professional piercers say they feel like pressure on the skin and it’s not difficult to manage.

Also, keep in mind we all have different levels of pain tolerance. Some people will feel it more than others, especially depending on the placement of the piercing. The skin thickness, nerve placement, and proximity to veins will affect how much your micro dermal piercing will hurt so these are factors to consider when choosing a placement. 

When it comes to healing time, micro dermal piercings will take from 1 to 3 months to fully heal. Of course, healing time will also depend on how diligent you are with your aftercare. If you take good care of it, it will take less time to heal, so be good with your aftercare routine and you’ll be fine. 

Price of a Micro Dermal Piercing

The price of a micro dermal piercing will depend on the studio. If you’re going with an experienced piercer, as you should, you can expect to spend up to $100 for your dermal piercing. Also, the jewelry will be charged separately, which can cost up to $50, depending on the quality of the material and the style. 

You also must consider tipping your piercer at least 20% or more if you’re happy with their work. Another thing to consider is the cost of aftercare! So, to get a better idea of the total cost of a micro dermal piercing, I recommend you call the studio beforehand and ask about application, jewelry, and their recommended aftercare so you can get a more accurate total. 

Types of Jewelry for Micro Dermal Piercings

A micro dermal piercing requires different elements. The most important one being the anchor, which has a flat-footed or rounded-base, depending on the variety. The flat-footed anchor is a lot more common because it’s less likely to come loose and pop out of the skin. 

The next element is the dermal top, which is the piece of jewelry that will be screwed on top of the anchor. This piece is removable and you’ll be able to change it if you purchase different ones. Just keep in mind it’s your piercer who can change your jewelry; never do it yourself!

In some cases, a micro dermal piercing will require a diver, which is a base with a pointed end and preset jewelry. This element is punched under the skin and it can’t be changed once it’s in there. 

How Long Do Micro Dermal Piercings Last?

Micro dermal piercings have an average lifespan of 5 years, but it can last less or more than that, depending on how well you take care of it after it’s healed. Some people have had their micro dermal piercing for 8 years or longer, so it’s really up to you! Also, you can remove it at any moment. 

Micro Dermal Piercing Aftercare

During the healing process of your micro dermal piercing, it’s recommended you clean the area well once a day, pat it dry with a paper towel, and apply a Band-Aid. This needs to be done without fail for a week. After the week, it’s not necessary to continue applying a Band-Aid, but you still have to clean the area and pat it dry. 

It’s important to keep the piercing covered during the first week or the period your piercer has recommended. Once it’s time to leave it uncovered, you have to clean the area twice a day with a saline solution and wipe it gently so you can remove any crust that has built up. 

Then, pat it dry with a paper towel. You need to avoid getting the area wet while it heals. If you can’t avoid this, you want to cover it during showers to prevent it from getting wet as much as possible. 

Remember the duration of your healing process will depend entirely on how well you take care of your micro dermal piercing. It’s not only about being careful and religious with your aftercare routine, it’s also about protecting your piercing from potential risks. For example, you want to be careful with your hair and clothes so you don’t cause any damage. Until your piercing is fully healed, don’t wear anything tight, allow the piercing to breathe, avoid the gym, sports, and high-energy exercises, and avoid touching the piercing unless you’re cleaning it. 

Most Popular Micro Dermal Piercing Locations

Because these piercings can be located on flat body parts, some of the most popular locations include the chest, the back of the neck, the lower back, the thighs, the cheekbones, the hand, the forearm, and the dimples. 

Micro dermal piercings are very versatile so you can place them whenever you want. You can even use the piercings to add extra detail to a tattoo, bring attention to facial features, or use them as permanent jewelry on your neck or wrists. 

How Is the Process of Getting a Micro Dermal Piercing?

The process of getting a micro dermal piercing is simpler than it seems. The first thing your piercer will do is clean the skin to make sure the surface is clear of bacteria and they will draw a small mark where the jewelry will be placed. After that, they will make a quick puncture on the skin with a skin punch or a needle so they can create an empty space for the metal to sit in. 

Then, the jewelry anchor will be inserted until it’s under the surface of the skin. Once it’s set, the top will be placed or screwed on, and that’s it! The entire process of getting a micro dermal piercing will take a few minutes. A professional piercer will take more time disinfecting the area than performing the actual piercing. It will be quick, not too painful, and you’ll be extremely happy with the results. 

Side Effects of a Micro Dermal Piercing

There are some possible side effects of getting a micro dermal piercing, but this is not uncommon with body modifications. Knowing about side effects is very important because you want to be aware of the possible risks so you can avoid them accordingly or identify them if they do happen and be able to take action quickly. Here are the most common side effects related to dermal piercings:

  • Infections. There’s always a risk of infection when it comes to body modifications, especially if you don’t take good care of them. The same applies to your micro dermal piercing. Signs of infection include severe pain, yellow or green pus, swelling, rashes, bad odor, and skin that’s hot when you touch it around the piercing. The jewelry may also start hanging or detach from the anchor. If you notice any of these things, go to a doctor right away.
  • Tissue damage. Tissue damage occurs when an infection is not treated in time, but it can also occur if the piercing is not properly installed. If it’s placed too deeply, it can pull the layers of the skin together. If it’s too shallow, it will move around. Both extremes are dangerous and risk tissue damage.
  • Hypergranulation. This refers to a red bump that will develop around the piercing if there’s too much pressure. This can be caused by a super tight piercing, non-breathable clothing, or other reasons. 
  • Scarring. Scarring is a risk if you move the jewelry or play with it while it’s not fully healed. The best way to prevent this is to get pierced with a professional, follow aftercare instructions to the letter, clean your piercing well, and avoid tight clothes and other factors that can harm your micro dermal piercing. 

How to Change the Jewelry on Your Micro Dermal Piercing

Once your micro dermal piercing is fully healed, you will be able to change the jewelry whenever you want, as long as you feel comfortable doing it. The first thing you need to do is wash your hands and your piercing very well. Use antibacterial soap for your hands and a saline solution for the piercing, and then dry it well. 

When that’s done, you can start by unscrewing the jewelry counterclockwise. Be gentle and don’t force it. If you find that the jewelry is resistant, don’t continue. After you get the jewelry top off, you can screw your new jewelry in clockwise and clean the piercing again. If you couldn’t get your jewelry to budge in the first place, you’ll have to ask your piercer to change the jewelry for you to make sure it’s done well. 

How to Take Out Your Micro Dermal Piercing

Contrary to what most people may think, micro dermal piercings are not permanent. Eventually, the skin will grow and push the anchor up until it comes out. This can happen right as it heals or years from then, but it will depend on your body and how well you take care of the piercing. 

If you want to get rid of your micro dermal piercing and you don’t want to wait for your body to do it for you, you can get it removed by a professional. Don’t do it yourself! 

There are two processes to remove a micro dermal piercing. The first one consists of massaging the piercing to loosen up the anchor. Once that’s done, your piercer will twist it to break the skin and pull it out. This is mostly done for piercings that are new. 

If you’ve had your piercing for a long time, the removal process will require a small incision which can be done with a scalpel or tweezers to then pull out the anchor. Of course, the process will hurt but professionals may use anesthetics. Also, keep in mind this process will leave a small scar. 

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