Piercing
Licensed piercers
When choosing a piercer, make sure they've got a piercing licence. All professional piercers must obtain a licence from their local council in order to carry out piercings.
The licence should be clearly and prominently displayed on their premises and means they meet the required safety and hygiene standards.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Information and about body piercing, including self care advice, symptoms of infection, finding a reputable piercer, and the potential risks.
Caring for a new piercing
To reduce the risk of your piercing becoming infected, good hygiene is important. Always wash your hands and dry them thoroughly with a clean towel or kitchen roll before touching the area around the
Symptoms of an infected piercing
Signs of infection include: red and swollen skin around the piercing pain or tenderness when touching the area yellow or green discharge coming from the piercing a high temperature (fever)
When to get medical advice
Get medical advice immediately if you think your piercing may be infected. A delay in treatment can result in a serious infection. Contact your GP, call NHS 111 or go to a minor injuries unit or wal
Risks from piercings
Infection Bacterial infection is the main risk associated with piercings. An abscess (build-up of pus) may form around the piercing site which, if left untreated, may need to be surgically drained
Licensed piercers
When choosing a piercer, make sure they've got a piercing licence. All professional piercers must obtain a licence from their local council in order to carry out piercings. The licence should be clea
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