Ear piercing has been a popular form of body modification for thousands of years, and it continues to be so today. While some people choose to have their ears pierced with a needle, others opt for a piercing gun. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to weigh these carefully before deciding which one to use. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of ear piercing guns vs. needles.
Ear Piercing Guns
Ear piercing guns are a common tool used by many professional piercers as well as those who perform piercings at home. They work by using a spring-loaded mechanism to shoot a stud or earring through the earlobe or other part of the ear. Here are some of the pros and cons of using an Ear Piercings gun:
Pros
- Speed: Ear piercing guns are typically faster than using a needle. They can pierce both ears at the same time, which is a big advantage for young children or those who are nervous about the procedure.
- Ease Of Use: Ear piercing guns are relatively easy to use and require minimal training. They’re also easy to find at many retail stores and online.
- Sterilization: Most ear piercing guns come with disposable cartridges or cassettes that can be easily sterilized or disposed of after each use, making them a hygienic choice.
Cons
- Tissue damage: Ear piercing guns use a blunt force trauma method that can cause more tissue damage than a needle. This can result in a longer healing time and an increased risk of infection.
- Jewelry selection: Ear piercing guns are typically limited to studs and other jewelry that can be easily attached to the gun. This means that there’s less selection when it comes to choosing the right jewelry for your piercing.
- Pressure: The pressure from an ear piercing gun can be painful, especially for those with thicker earlobes. This can cause unnecessary discomfort during and after the procedure.
Ear Piercing Needles
Ear piercing needles are another popular choice for those looking to get their ears pierced. They’re used by many professional piercers and are also available for purchase online. Here are some of the pros and cons of using an ear piercing needle:
Pros
- Less Tissue Damage: Ear piercing needles are much sharper than ear piercing guns, which means they cause less tissue damage. This can result in a faster healing time and a lower risk of infection.
- Jewelry Selection: Because ear piercing needles are more precise, they can be used to create a wider variety of piercings. This means that there’s a wider selection of jewelry available for those who choose to use a needle.
- Pain: Many people report that getting their ears pierced with a needle is less painful than using an ear piercing gun. This is because the needle creates a clean, sharp hole that heals quickly and with less discomfort.
Cons
- Experience Required: Using an ear piercing needle requires more experience and training than using an ear piercing gun. This means that it’s important to choose a piercer who is experienced and knowledgeable in using a needle.
- Cost: Piercing with a needle can be more expensive than using an ear piercing gun. This is because the equipment is more expensive and the procedure may take longer.
- Longer Procedure Time: Piercing with a needle can take longer than using an ear piercing gun, especially if the piercer is creating a more complex piercing. This can be uncomfortable for those who are nervous about the procedure.
