Dermal piercings offer a distinctive aesthetic, with jewelry appearing to sit directly on the skin’s surface. While the embedded part of a dermal piercing remains in place, the decorative top can be swapped for personalization once the piercing is fully healed. This process involves specific considerations to ensure safety and the longevity of the piercing.
What Dermal Piercings Are and How They Work
Dermal piercings are a type of single-point piercing, meaning they have only one entry point and no exit point, unlike traditional piercings. They are comprised of two main components: an anchor and a decorative top. The anchor, a small, flat base, is inserted into the dermal layer of the skin. This anchor often features a rounded base or small “feet” with holes, allowing surrounding tissue to grow through and securely integrate it over time.
Once the anchor is in place, a visible jewelry top is attached to a post extending from it. Most dermal tops screw directly onto this post, allowing them to be interchanged. However, some variations, known as skin divers, are single-piece units with the top permanently attached to the base, making them non-changeable. Dermal anchors typically use implant-grade materials, such as ASTM F-136 titanium or surgical steel, chosen for their biocompatibility. Titanium is often preferred for individuals with metal sensitivities, as it is nickel-free.
When and How to Change Your Dermal Jewelry
Changing dermal jewelry should only occur after the piercing has fully healed. Healing typically ranges from one to three months, though it can take up to a year. Indicators that a dermal piercing is adequately healed include:
Absence of pain or sensitivity
Uniform skin color without redness or discoloration
No discharge, crusting, or swelling
Stable jewelry
For the initial jewelry change, it is strongly recommended to seek assistance from a professional piercer. A piercer possesses specialized tools that can securely stabilize the embedded anchor while the top is unscrewed, minimizing the risk of dislodging or damaging the delicate tissue. Applying excessive force or improper technique during removal can lead to complications such as irritation, infection, or even the rejection of the piercing.
If you choose to change your dermal jewelry yourself after the initial healing and professional guidance, the process involves unscrewing the existing top counterclockwise. Apply gentle, steady pressure and avoid tugging or pulling on the anchor. If the top is difficult to remove, applying a damp cloth to the area may help loosen it. Forcing it should be avoided; seek professional help if resistance persists. Once the old top is removed, the new decorative piece is carefully screwed clockwise onto the anchor’s post until secure.
Safe Practices for Changing Dermal Piercings
Maintaining strict hygiene is paramount when changing dermal piercing jewelry to prevent complications. Before touching the piercing or any jewelry, hands must be thoroughly washed with antibacterial soap. The piercing site should be cleaned with a sterile saline solution, and any new jewelry should also be disinfected. These steps help reduce the introduction of bacteria into the piercing channel.
Gentle handling is also important during the process. Dermal anchors can shift within the skin if subjected to undue force or twisting. Applying controlled, light pressure while unscrewing or screwing the jewelry helps prevent trauma to the surrounding tissue and reduces the risk of displacing the anchor. It is also important to consider the quality of the new jewelry. Opting for implant-grade materials like titanium or surgical steel ensures biocompatibility and minimizes irritation or allergic reactions.
Avoid changing dermal jewelry if the piercing shows any signs of irritation or infection, such as increased pain, excessive redness, swelling, or unusual discharge. Attempting to change jewelry while the piercing is compromised can worsen the condition and potentially lead to more serious issues. Similarly, if there are indications that the anchor is migrating or being rejected by the body, a professional piercer should be consulted immediately rather than attempting a jewelry change.
Post-Change Care
Following a jewelry change, consistent and gentle post-care practices are important to ensure the piercing remains healthy. The area should be cleaned twice daily with a sterile saline solution, which helps remove debris and support the healing environment. After cleaning, the piercing should be gently patted dry with a clean gauze or paper towel, avoiding rubbing or harsh movements.
Minimizing physical trauma to the newly changed jewelry is also important. Avoid unnecessary touching of the piercing, as hands can transfer bacteria and disrupt the healing process. Care should be taken to prevent the jewelry from snagging on clothing, hair, or bedding, which can cause irritation or dislodge the anchor. Avoiding sleeping directly on the piercing can also help reduce pressure and potential complications.
Monitoring the piercing for any signs of complications is an ongoing aspect of post-change care. Watch for persistent redness, prolonged swelling, unusual discharge, or increased pain, as these can indicate an issue. If any of these signs develop or if there is concern about the piercing’s health, contact a professional piercer or healthcare provider for guidance. Prompt attention to potential problems can help prevent more significant complications.