There’s something uniquely exhilarating about getting a new piercing—as accessories fanatics, the opportunity to add another sparkly stud (diamond, preferably) to our person never fails to incite joy. Furthermore, its semi-permanent nature provides the impetus to go for something bold and daring, knowing it can always be removed down the line. Luckily, the trend as of late is to pile on earrings with reckless abandon, and there are myriad arrangements to suit a variety of styles. To inspire your next poke, we tapped Brian Keith Thompson from Body Electric studio (who has pierced the likes of Beyoncé and Bella Thorne) for some recent hits and pro tips to keep in mind.
Pretty Piercing Inspiration
Double lobe, helix and triple flat.
Tragus, multiple lobe and double helix.
Double tragus, triple lobe, inner conch and helix.
Single lobe, tragus, orbital and upper cartilage.
Double upper lobe, tragus and industrial.
Upper lobe and double upper cartilage.
Helix and single flat.
Double lobe, double tragus and orbital.
Single lobe, tragus and helix.
- "If you're nervous and think you need a drink before you get pierced, it's okay to have one to take the edge off—just don't have 10."
- "The best metals to be pierced with are titanium, 14K gold, 18K gold or platinum. They're all safe and nickel-free."
- "For aftercare, I swear by Dr. Bronner's Castile soap. It's really all you need."
- "Remember that a piercing takes time to heal. Patience is key. Leave it alone and don't play with it—it’s not a puppy."