Surface piercings can be a fantastic way to enhance your body art, but they require a specific technique to heal properly and remain comfortable long-term. Unfortunately, not all surface piercings are created equal. If done incorrectly, they can lead to complications, rejection, and a shorter lifespan for the piercing.

In this blog post, I’ll explain the key differences between a surface piercing done the right way and one done the wrong way. I’ll also cover the proper jewelry choices to ensure your surface piercing heals as it should. And why certain jewelry, like curved or straight barbells, should never be used for these types of piercings.

What is a Surface Piercing?

A surface piercing involves placing a piece of jewelry beneath the skin’s surface (i know right?), typically along the body’s flat areas, such as the chest, nape of the neck, or lower back. Unlike standard piercings that pass through the entire tissue, surface piercings are under the skin, making them more vulnerable to rejection, irritation, and migration if not done correctly.

The Right Way: Proper Placement and Technique

A surface piercing done the right way involves careful planning and precise technique. Here’s what you should expect from a professional piercer:

  1. Proper Placement:
    Surface piercings require strategic placement to avoid unnecessary tension on the skin. The piercer should assess your anatomy and ensure that the area can accommodate the jewelry comfortably. This ensures minimal movement and irritation during the healing process.
  2. The Correct Technique:
    The piercer should use a technique that allows the jewelry to sit flat against the skin, with the entry and exit points following the natural contour of the area. The skin should be pierced cleanly without causing excessive trauma to the tissue. Proper technique significantly reduces the risk of migration and rejection.
  3. Jewelry Type:
    The ideal jewelry for surface piercings is surface bars or staple-shaped jewelry. These pieces are specifically designed to accommodate the flat nature of surface piercings. Surface bars have a straight post with bends on each end to fit snugly against the skin, ensuring a stable, secure fit. The surface bar minimizes friction and irritation and helps distribute pressure evenly across the surface of the skin.

The Wrong Way: Common Mistakes and Why They Fail

Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of getting surface piercings done incorrectly. Often resulting in painful, frustrating outcomes. Here’s what you should watch out for:

  1. Improper Placement:
    When a surface piercing is placed in an area that can’t adequately support the jewelry, it may not heal properly. Piercers who don’t assess your anatomy thoroughly might place the piercing in a location prone to constant movement or tension, increasing the likelihood of rejection.
  2. Using the Wrong Jewelry:
    Curved or straight barbells are often incorrectly used for surface piercings. While these jewelry types work great for piercings that go through the entire tissue (like lip or eyebrow piercings), they are not suited for surface piercings. Here’s why:
    • Straight Barbells: When a straight barbell is used, it doesn’t conform to the flat surface of the skin. This results in uneven pressure distribution and excessive movement, which can cause irritation, discomfort, and migration of the piercing.
    • Curved Barbells: While they have a slight curve, they still don’t conform well to the natural shape of the body’s surface. The gap between the barbell and the skin creates constant friction, which can lead to scarring, rejection, and poor healing.
  3. No Aftercare or Incorrect Aftercare:
    Even if a surface piercing is done correctly, improper aftercare can still result in complications. Make sure to follow your piercer’s aftercare instructions closely. Never touch the piercing with dirty hands, and avoid unnecessary trauma to the area. Using saline solution to clean the piercing and avoiding harsh chemicals is key.

Why Surface Bars Are the Best Jewelry Choice

When it comes to surface piercings, a surface bar is specifically designed to reduce the risk of migration and rejection. Unlike curved or straight barbells, which can cause the piercing to move around too much, surface bars have a unique shape that fits comfortably along the flat plane of the skin.

Benefits of Surface Bars:

  • Flat Design: The shape and design of a surface bar allow it to rest flat against the skin, reducing friction and minimizing pressure points. This helps promote better healing.
  • Reduced Migration Risk: Because the jewelry sits snugly against the skin, it reduces the risk of the piercing shifting or moving out of place.
  • Stable Fit: Surface bars are designed with the intention of staying in place, preventing issues like twisting, turning, or irritation that can occur with improper jewelry.

Conclusion: Choose the Right Piercer, the Right Jewelry

Surface piercings are an art. Done properly, they can be beautiful and rewarding, offering a unique way to express yourself. But in order to achieve the best results, it’s essential to choose the right piercer, the right placement, and the right jewelry.

When you decide to get a surface piercing, always ensure that your piercer uses surface bars and doesn’t use curved or straight barbells. The correct jewelry is integral to a smooth healing process and long-lasting results.

As with all piercings, ensure you’re following proper aftercare instructions and that you’re choosing a reputable professional who understands the specifics of surface piercing techniques.

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Written By

Paul

I’m a professional body piercer with over 25 years of experience, specializing in clean, private services using implant-grade jewelry from top brands like Anatometal, Industrial Strength, BVLA, Pupil Hall and more. As an APP Member and Fakir Intensives alumni, I focus on precision, safety, and education. Helping clients make informed decisions about their piercings every step of the way.

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