When my eldest daughter, Lily, expressed her desire to have her ears pierced, we decided to visit a local mall shop—a choice many parents make. While I wouldn’t call it an “ordeal,” it certainly turned out to be more complicated than anticipated. As a parent nearing 40, I noticed that the “ear piercing expert” seemed quite young, possibly fresh out of high school. Yet, my priority was to support Lily through the experience.
Unfortunately, she cried during the procedure and later developed an infection in her right ear, necessitating medical intervention and a second piercing. Now, as I consider the future ear piercing of my youngest daughter, Ellie, I’ve begun to rethink our approach.
Research has shed light on the pitfalls of mall ear piercings. If you’re feeling guilty about having taken your child to a mall for this service, rest assured that you’re not alone. A recent Glamour article highlights that Claire’s, a popular accessory chain, has performed over 100 million ear piercings in its 40-year history. However, this volume has sparked a growing concern over the methods used, particularly regarding bodily autonomy and safety.
Experts, as reported in Parents Magazine, advise against using piercing guns. The primary concern is that these devices do not actually pierce the skin but rather force a blunt-backed earring through the earlobe, which can result in blunt-force trauma. Additionally, the difficulty of properly sanitizing these guns can lead to infections, which is likely what happened with Lily.
While piercing ears may seem like a minor procedure, it is still an entry point into the body where infections can escalate. In a 2017 interview with University of Utah Health, Dr. Samuel Thompson discussed the potential complications that can arise. He emphasized that while an ear infection might seem trivial, it can lead to significant issues, including hearing impairments.
What Should Parents Consider?
So what should parents consider when contemplating ear piercings for their kids? A viable alternative is to seek out a professional piercing studio, where technicians utilize hollow needles instead of guns. Many dermatologists also offer in-office piercings, which can be reassuring compared to a mall kiosk staffed by young workers. If your dermatologist doesn’t perform piercings, they can likely recommend reputable places.
Dr. Emily Marshall, a dermatologist in Austin, Texas, suggests several guidelines to ensure a safe piercing experience. It’s crucial to select a technician with at least a year of experience performing multiple piercings daily. Check that they adhere to safety protocols—washing hands, using antibacterial gel, applying new gloves, and using sterile equipment opened in front of you.
To enhance comfort during the piercing process, consider asking your healthcare provider for a topical numbing cream containing lidocaine. While it won’t eliminate all discomfort, it can help ease the anxiety of the experience for your child.
Aftercare is Key
Aftercare is equally important. Follow the instructions provided post-piercing to minimize complications. The objective is to ensure a safe and relatively painless experience, which often means avoiding the mall.
While it’s true that countless children get their ears pierced at malls without issues, it’s wise for parents to recognize that there are safer, less painful options available. For my next child, should she wish to have her ears pierced, we will certainly opt for the hollow needle method instead.
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Summary
In conclusion, while ear piercing at malls is common, it’s essential to consider safer alternatives like professional studios or dermatologists. The use of piercing guns can lead to complications, making it crucial for parents to prioritize their child’s health and safety when making this decision.
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