5 Critical Facts About Dermal Piercings (For Piercers & Clients)
Dermal piercings are in a class of their own. They're beautiful, versatile, and make a unique statement. But because they sit differently in the skin than traditional piercings, they come with their own set of rules and common questions.
Whether you're a client admiring your new piercing or a professional artist ensuring a perfect outcome, understanding these five critical facts is key to a happy and healthy dermal.
1. Know the Difference: Rejection vs. Irritation
This is the number one concern for most people. It's crucial to know what's a temporary setback versus a permanent problem.
• Irritation is temporary and usually caused by an external force—a snag, a bump, or pressure from clothing. You’ll notice localized redness, some swelling, and maybe some clear or pale-yellow crust. With a little babying and strict adherence to aftercare, irritation typically calms down.
• Rejection is permanent. This is when your body decides it doesn't want the foreign object and actively pushes the anchor to the surface. The signs are very different: the jewelry will slowly rise or shift from its original position, the skin over the anchor will get progressively thinner (you might start to see the metal outline), and it will often be accompanied by flaky, red, or calloused skin. Once rejection begins, it cannot be stopped. The only solution is to have the jewelry professionally removed to minimize scarring.
2. Jewelry Changes are a Professional Sport
It’s tempting to want to swap out your dermal top at home, but this is a job that should always be left to your piercer. The anchor under your skin isn't fused in place; it's held by healed tissue. Attempting to twist off a tight top without the proper tools can easily dislodge the anchor, damage the surrounding tissue, and potentially lead to the loss of the piercing.
A professional uses tools like hemostats or forceps to securely grip the anchor base through the skin while safely unscrewing the top. This is also when you can upgrade your style!
For the Pros: This is a perfect opportunity to showcase new jewelry. Having a variety of high-quality, implant-grade titanium tops is essential. For piercers in Atlanta, we stock a full range of styles—from classic 3mm-6mm discs to our popular 5mm Hearts—all available for 2-hour local delivery.
3. Aftercare is Simple, But Absolutely Non-Negotiable
The long-term success of a dermal is heavily dependent on the first few months of healing. While the rules are simple, skipping them is not an option.
• Clean it 1-2 times daily with sterile saline spray only.
• Don't twist it. Unlike an earring, twisting a dermal anchor disrupts the healing tissue that's trying to secure it.
• Pat it dry with non-woven gauze or a clean paper towel. Regular towels can harbor bacteria and snag the jewelry.
• Protect it from snags, especially while sleeping or during physical activity, by covering it with a small, circular bandage.
4. Think "Semi-Permanent," Not "Forever"
We all hope for a piercing that will last a lifetime. While some people enjoy their dermals for many, many years, it's best to view them as semi-permanent. Because they are surface piercings, they are more vulnerable to the cumulative effects of daily life—snags, bumps, and friction—than a piercing that passes completely through tissue. Managing this expectation from the start is key to enjoying the piercing for as long as you have it.
5. Removal Requires a Professional Hand
If the time comes to remove your dermal, whether due to rejection or a change of style, do not attempt to pull it out yourself. This will cause unnecessary trauma to your skin and will likely result in significant scarring.
A professional piercer can remove an anchor in a few moments. They may need to make a tiny incision with a scalpel or piercing needle to break up the integrated tissue and easily lift the anchor out. It’s a quick procedure that will ensure the best possible healing outcome.
The Bottom Line
Successful dermal piercings are a partnership between a skilled, knowledgeable artist and a well-educated, diligent client. When both sides are committed, the result is a beautiful, unique piece of body art.