Piercing Myths Debunked: What’s Fact & What’s Fiction?

Piercings have been part of human culture for centuries, but even today, there are plenty of myths and misconceptions floating around. At Identity Body Piercing, with studios in Wicker Park and Roscoe Village, we’re here to set the record straight so you can make informed, confident choices about your piercings. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths we hear every day.

Myth 1: Piercings Can Be Done Safely with a Piercing Gun

Fiction! Piercing guns are not designed for safe body piercings. They can’t be sterilized properly, often cause unnecessary trauma to the tissue, and increase the risk of infection and scarring.


Fact: Professional piercers use single-use, sterilized needles for precision, hygiene, and faster healing. At Identity, we strictly use disposable needles for every piercing.

Myth 2: You Should Rotate Your Jewelry While It’s Healing

Fiction! This old-school advice is harmful. Rotating jewelry in a fresh piercing can reopen the wound, delay healing, and introduce bacteria.

Fact: The best way to heal is to leave your jewelry alone, keep the area clean with saline solution, and avoid touching it with unwashed hands.

Myth 3: Piercings Take Just a Few Weeks to Heal

Fiction! Healing times vary widely depending on placement, jewelry, and your body. Some piercings (like lobes) may feel better quickly, but cartilage piercings often take 6–12 months to fully heal.

Fact: Patience is key! Following aftercare instructions ensures long-term success and fewer complications.

Myth 4: Only Certain People Can Get Piercings

Fiction! Piercings are for everyone—regardless of age, style, or identity. The only limitations are anatomical (based on ear/nose structure, for example) or medical safety concerns.

Fact: At Identity, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive, affirming space where anyone can express themselves through piercings and jewelry.

Myth 5: Cheap Jewelry Is “Good Enough” for Healing

Fiction! Low-quality metals can cause allergic reactions, tarnishing, or irritation that prevents proper healing.

Fact: High-quality, implant-grade materials like titanium or solid gold are the safest for healing and look beautiful long-term. Our studios carry only premium jewelry from trusted designers so you never have to compromise style for safety.

Trust the Experts for Safe Piercings

When it comes to piercings, myths can cause more harm than good. Choosing a reputable studio ensures your piercing is done safely, heals properly, and looks amazing.

At Identity Body Piercing, we combine years of experience, the highest safety standards, and Chicago’s best jewelry selection to give you a professional, welcoming experience.

📍 Visit us in Wicker Park or Roscoe Village

🕛 Open daily 12pm – 9pm

🚶 Walk-ins welcome or 📲 book online anytime

Don’t let fiction guide your piercing journey—trust the facts, and let us help you express your style safely.