Your ear-piercing appointment is booked. Before you leave home, check the paperwork, save the studio’s number and give yourself time for the visit. A little preparation means you won’t have to hunt for your booking details at reception.
This checklist focuses on getting ready for the visit. If you're still comparing piercing methods, start with our needle and piercing-device guide.
Read the studio's confirmation and preparation instructions, including the address, arrival time, payment arrangements and cancellation policy. Check how long to allow for the whole visit, including consent forms, placement discussion and jewelry selection. Leave time for the journey home rather than putting another appointment immediately afterward.
Put the documents requested by the studio with your booking details. For a minor, confirm the age policy, who must attend and which identification or relationship documents are accepted. Don't assume that another studio's rules apply. The Association of Professional Piercers' studio-selection guide recommends checking these requirements ahead.
If you want someone with you, check the guest policy too. A confirmed piercing appointment doesn't necessarily reserve space for a companion.
Follow the studio's instructions about preparing for the visit. If they conflict with medical instructions you've been given, ask your healthcare professional before the appointment. Don't stop or change medication to follow a general piercing checklist.
Make a private note of relevant health conditions, medications, allergies and previous reactions to jewelry or skin products to discuss with the practitioner. Describe what happened rather than guessing the cause. Mention a history of fainting or feeling unwell during procedures so you can discuss practical arrangements.
You don't need to explain those details at a crowded reception desk. Ask to speak privately. If a question needs medical advice, leave time to get that advice before proceeding.
If your hair covers your ears, bring a tie or clip. Choose accessories you can move out of the way without a struggle, and ask the practitioner what to remove. Wear your usual glasses if they sit near the planned placement so you can show where they rest.
Bring a few placement photos if they help explain your preference. Also mention items you regularly wear around your ears, such as a work headset or helmet. Show the practitioner where those items touch your ear while you discuss the placement.
Before the procedure, look at the proposed marks and ask about anything you don't understand. You can request more discussion or decide not to go ahead.
Before leaving, ask for the material, post diameter, post length and closure of the jewelry fitted that day. Save those details with your receipt. Record which ear and placement each entry refers to if you have more than one piercing.
Ask whether the studio wants to arrange a follow-up, how to book it and whether there is a separate charge. Keep its contact details and instructions for reaching someone with a concern. The APP recommends written or electronic aftercare instructions. Check that you've received them and can find them later.
Our earring size guide explains the measurements. Keep the record for reference, and have the fit reassessed before choosing jewelry later.
A future jewelry wishlist can help you describe what you like. Our Outline Bow studs list F136 titanium, internally threaded flat backs and a 1.2 mm by 8 mm post. Our Micro Birthstone studs list F136 titanium alloy and a 0.8 mm post diameter with a 6 mm wearable length.
These are options for compatible healed piercings, with different fittings. The listings aren't independent material certificates or approval for a fresh piercing. Ask the studio before bringing outside jewelry. Its practitioner needs to assess the initial jewelry's documentation, fit, finish and sterilization; a saved product photo doesn't establish those things.
Ask whether the studio offers an advance form and whether anything must be completed in person. Keep your questions for the practitioner even if you've already submitted the paperwork.
Call the studio using the number on your confirmation. Ask whether to continue your journey or rebook; don't assume the appointment can be shortened.
Explain your uncertainty before the appointment and ask how the booking can accommodate a consultation. Confirm any deposit or rescheduling terms before changing it.
