When it comes to body piercings, the options are nearly endless. Among the more unique and eye-catching styles are dermal anchor and surface anchor piercings. These piercings offer a way to adorn your skin with jewelry in areas that traditional piercings can’t reach. But how do you decide which one is right for you? In this post, we’ll explore the differences between dermal and surface anchor piercings, covering everything from the procedure to healing time and the potential risks involved.
Understanding the Basics of Dermal Anchor Piercings
A dermal anchor piercing is a type of single-point piercing, meaning it doesn’t have an entry and exit point like traditional piercings. Instead, it involves placing a small anchor just below the skin’s surface, which holds a piece of jewelry in place. This type of piercing is highly versatile and can be placed almost anywhere on the body, from the chest to the nape of the neck.
The procedure for a dermal anchor piercing typically involves using a needle or a dermal punch to create a small hole in the skin. The anchor, which is usually made of titanium to reduce the risk of infection, is then inserted into the hole. One of the key benefits of dermal anchor piercings is their low profile, which means they lay flat against the skin, making them less likely to snag on clothing or other objects.
Exploring Surface Anchor Piercings
Surface anchor piercings, on the other hand, involve a barbell placed under the skin, with both ends of the barbell visible on the skin’s surface. Unlike dermal anchors, surface piercings have both an entry and an exit point, similar to traditional piercings. This type of piercing is most commonly seen on flat areas of the body, such as the collarbone, hips, or back.
The procedure for a surface anchor piercing involves creating a channel under the skin with a needle, into which the barbell is placed. The jewelry used in surface piercings is specially designed to minimize pressure on the skin, reducing the likelihood of rejection. However, surface piercings are generally more prone to complications than dermal anchors, particularly if placed in areas that experience a lot of movement or friction.
Healing Time and Aftercare
Both dermal and surface anchor piercings require diligent aftercare to minimize the risk of infection and ensure proper healing. Dermal anchor piercings typically heal faster, with an average healing time of 1-3 months. Surface piercings, on the other hand, can take 6 months or longer to fully heal, depending on the location and how well you care for them.
Proper aftercare includes cleaning the piercing site twice daily with saline solution, avoiding touching the piercing with unclean hands, and being mindful of activities that could irritate the area. It’s also important to avoid submerging the piercing in bodies of water like pools or hot tubs until it’s fully healed to reduce the risk of infection.
Risks and Potential Complications
As with any body modification, both dermal and surface anchor piercings come with certain risks. The most common complications include infection, migration, and rejection. Infection can occur if bacteria enter the piercing site, leading to redness, swelling, and discharge. Migration and rejection happen when the body pushes the jewelry out, often due to improper placement or irritation.
Dermal anchor piercings tend to have a lower risk of rejection compared to surface piercings, especially if placed in a low-movement area. However, placement of both types of piercings requires careful consideration to minimize these risks.
Choosing the Right Piercing for You
Deciding between a dermal anchor and a surface anchor piercing ultimately depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and the area of the body you wish to adorn. If you’re looking for a piercing with a quicker healing time and lower risk of complications, a dermal anchor piercing might be the better option. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to the aesthetic of a surface anchor piercing and are prepared for a longer healing process, it could be the right choice for you.
Before making a decision, it’s crucial to consult with a professional piercer who can assess your skin type and discuss the best placement options for your desired piercing. This will not only help ensure the longevity of the piercing but also reduce the risk of complications.
Ready to Get Pierced?
Whether you’re leaning towards a dermal anchor or surface anchor piercing, it’s important to be fully informed about the procedure, risks, and aftercare involved. At Marine Agency, we specialize in providing insurance coverage for tattoo and piercing studios, helping to protect both artists and clients throughout the piercing process. Contact us today for a quote or to learn more about our speciality insurance options for your piercing studio!
