Safe Piercing Jewelry Options for All Skin Types

Hi, I’m Tristin, a professional piercer at Blackbrew Tattoo & Piercing, located in the heart of Abbotsford.

This is a very important topic today because, as a father of two beautiful little girls, I understand the importance of safety, care, and commitment in everything I do.

The biggest choice you make when getting a new piercing is selecting the perfect jewelry to showcase it. The right jewelry can ensure a smooth healing process, while the wrong choice can be risky—even if it's the most stunning piece you’ve ever seen.

With this blog, my aim is to keep you informed and ready for your next jewelry purchase. I’ll be ranking the best metals for piercings in order. Keep reading to learn what’s good for your piercings and what to stay miles away from.

Ranking Materials Used in Piercing Jewelry by Affordability & Safety

At Blackbrew Tattoo & Piercing, we prioritize your safety, starting with the jewelry itself. Here are some of the most commonly recommended materials for piercing jewelry:

Rank #1: Titanium (Grade 23)

Hands down, the best for overall safety and value! If you’re looking for jewelry that offers maximum safety without breaking the bank, titanium is your go-to. It’s lightweight, hypoallergenic, and completely nickel-free, making it the safest option for those with metal sensitivities. Plus, its durability means you won’t need to replace your jewelry frequently. It may not be the cheapest option, but as people say, “It’s worth the investment.”

Rank #2: Surgical Stainless Steel (316L or 316LVM)

Stainless steel is perfect for those who want jewelry that is affordable, available, and safe! For those balancing cost and safety, surgical stainless steel offers a great middle ground. While it may contain trace amounts of nickel, biocompatible grades like 316L are generally safe for most people. The only time it’s not recommended is if you have a known nickel allergy.

Rank #3: Niobium

This ranks third because, while it’s safe, it’s less common and comes with a higher price. Niobium is another highly biocompatible metal, making it great for sensitive skin. It’s just as safe as titanium, but its rarity can make it pricier and harder to find. If you’re willing to invest, niobium is an excellent choice for those seeking maximum safety, especially for individuals with severe sensitivities.

Rank #4: Gold (14k or Higher, Nickel-Free)

Gold is known for being premium and luxurious. However, when it comes to piercings, placing it in our rankings was a tough decision. For those wanting premium safety, 14k or 18k gold is both safe and stylish, though it comes at a higher cost. One thing to keep in mind is that cheaper, gold-plated options can cause irritation when the plating wears down, exposing less-safe base metals. While gold is undoubtedly safe, it’s one of the priciest options for piercing jewelry.

At Blackbrew, we ensure your first piece of jewelry is biocompatible, meaning it can integrate smoothly with your body. We offer free hypoallergenic jewelry for all new piercings to reduce the risk of allergic reactions and ensure your piercing heals properly. Our jewelry is made from the safest materials available to ensure comfort, minimize irritation, and promote faster healing.

What Metals to Avoid

While some metals are excellent for piercings, others can wreak havoc on your skin. It’s crucial to avoid the following materials to prevent unnecessary risks:

Nickel-containing Metals: Nickel is one of the most common allergens and can cause severe irritation, itching, and swelling. Unfortunately, it’s sometimes found in cheap jewelry or even lower-quality surgical steel.

Plated Jewelry: Any type of plated jewelry—whether gold, silver, or another material—can wear down over time, exposing base metals that are often not skin-friendly. Once the plating erodes, you may experience a reaction to the metal underneath.

Copper or Brass: Although visually appealing, both of these metals can oxidize when exposed to sweat or moisture, leading to skin discoloration and irritation.

To avoid these metals, always ask your piercer about the materials used and check the label for terms like “nickel-free,” “surgical grade,” or “implant-grade.” If you’re unsure, test the jewelry for skin reactions before committing to wearing it long-term.

Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Next Piece of Jewelry

Remember, it’s not just about aesthetics; the materials of your piercing jewelry matter. Here are some important questions to consider:

• What material is the jewelry made from? Ensure that your piercer or jewelry provider can verify the metal grade.

• Is this jewelry certified as hypoallergenic or biocompatible? If you have sensitive skin, it's essential to choose materials specifically designed for safe, long-term wear.

• Is the jewelry free of nickel and other allergens? For those prone to allergies, nickel can be a major cause of irritation.

• Is the jewelry solid or plated? Solid jewelry made from safe materials will last longer and protect your skin better than plated alternatives.

Takeaways: Protecting Your Piercing

Choosing the right jewelry is the first step in ensuring a successful, irritation-free piercing. Research consistently emphasizes the importance of biocompatible materials like titanium, surgical steel, and niobium. At Blackbrew Tattoo & Piercing, we take pride in using the safest materials to provide a hassle-free experience.

If you ever notice irritation or suspect an allergic reaction, patch testing is a great way to identify potential allergens. We recommend consulting your doctor if irritation persists, as they can help guide you toward safer choices or prescribe solutions to alleviate any discomfort.

Remember, your health is worth the extra effort. When it comes to piercings, taking precautions now can save you from complications down the road.

When you are ready for your next piercing stop by Blackbrew Tattoo & Piercing Studio or call us at (604) 557-0746 for an appointment.