Thinking about adding some new sparkle to your look? You've come to the right place! Getting a new piercing is a super exciting way to express yourself, but with so many options out there, choosing the perfect one can feel a bit overwhelming. Whether you're a seasoned pro planning your next addition or a curious first-timer, this guide is for you.
Are you looking for something classic and subtle, or are you ready to make a bold statement? From the ever-popular earlobe stud to the edgy dermal anchor, each piercing has its own unique vibe and healing journey. That's why we've put together the ultimate guide to help you explore your options with confidence.
In this comprehensive list of body piercings with pictures, we'll walk you through ten of the most popular placements. For each one, we'll dive into what to expect, the coolest jewelry you can rock (hello, future Bodycandy haul!), and the essential aftercare you'll need. Consider this your personal piercing lookbook—let's find the one that's calling your name!
1. Earlobe Piercing: The Timeless Classic
Welcome to the world of piercings! The earlobe is where it all begins for most of us. It's that classic, super-versatile spot on the fleshy lower part of your ear. Think of it as the perfect canvas for your jewelry journey, offering endless ways to style your look from day one.
Jewelry Options & Styling
The earlobe's versatility is its greatest strength. You can wear almost any type of earring here, from simple studs and elegant hoops to bold dangles. Stacking multiple earlobe piercings—often called "doubles" or "triples"—is a hugely popular way to create a curated ear look. Mix and match different styles to show off your personality!
Healing Time & Aftercare
Earlobe piercings are known for being one of the quickest and easiest to heal.
- Healing Time: Expect a healing period of 6 to 8 weeks. It's crucial not to change your initial jewelry during this time to prevent irritation.
- Basic Aftercare: Clean the piercing twice daily with a sterile saline solution. Gently pat it dry with a clean paper towel. Avoid touching or rotating the jewelry, and be mindful of snagging it on clothing or hair.
Hypoallergenic Recommendations
If you have sensitive skin, choosing the right material is everything. For your initial piercing and beyond, stick to high-quality, body-safe metals.
- Implant Grade Titanium: This is a top-tier choice. It’s completely nickel-free, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
- 316L Surgical Grade Stainless Steel: A popular and affordable option, this material is durable and body-safe.
Ready to start or expand your earlobe collection? Check out Bodycandy’s amazing selection of hypoallergenic flat back earrings to find the perfect piece for your timeless look.
2. Nose Piercing (Nostril): The Iconic Facial Statement
The nostril piercing is one of the most popular and culturally significant facial piercings. Placed on the crease of your nostril, this piercing is a bold yet classic way to accentuate your features. Its rich history makes it a truly versatile and expressive choice.
Jewelry Options & Styling
The nostril is perfect for showcasing delicate and eye-catching jewelry. You can opt for a subtle stud, a seamless hoop, or a secure nose screw. Many people choose a small gem for a hint of sparkle or a simple ring for an edgier vibe. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or something more ornate, the nostril piercing is a fantastic way to personalize your style.
Healing Time & Aftercare
Nostril piercings pass through cartilage, so they require a bit more healing time and attention than an earlobe.
- Healing Time: A nostril piercing typically takes 4 to 6 months to fully heal. Be patient and consistent with your aftercare!
- Basic Aftercare: Clean the piercing twice a day with a sterile saline solution. Avoid rotating the jewelry and keep your hands off. Be careful not to snag it on towels or clothing.
Hypoallergenic Recommendations
The skin on your face can be sensitive, making the right metal choice super important for a happy and healthy piercing.
- Implant Grade Titanium: This is the gold standard for nostril piercings. It is completely nickel-free and biocompatible, minimizing the risk of irritation.
- 14k Gold: If you love the look of gold, ensure it is 14k or higher and free of nickel. Solid gold (not plated) is ideal for long-term wear.
Feeling inspired to add this iconic piercing to your look? Learn more about styling options in our nose piercing fashion guide and find the perfect piece for your new piercing.
3. Septum Piercing: The Bold & Versatile Centerpiece
The septum piercing is a true statement piece, adding instant edge and symmetry to your look. This piercing goes through the thin membrane of skin in your nasal septum, located between your nostrils. It's a fantastic choice if you want a striking facial piercing that can also be easily concealed.
Jewelry Options & Styling
The septum offers a huge range of jewelry styles, from subtle to extravagant. Circular barbells and seamless rings are classic choices, while clickers provide a secure and ornate look. One of the best features is the ability to flip a circular barbell up into your nostrils, making it completely invisible for work or other occasions.
Healing Time & Aftercare
Proper aftercare is key to a happy septum piercing. A correctly placed septum piercing goes through a "sweet spot" of thin skin, not cartilage, which helps with the healing process.
- Healing Time: The initial healing period is typically 6 to 8 weeks, but it can take up to 6 months to be fully healed.
- Basic Aftercare: Clean the area twice a day using a sterile saline solution. Avoid rotating or flipping the jewelry excessively during the initial healing phase, as this can cause irritation.
Hypoallergenic Recommendations
Choosing a body-safe material is crucial for a comfortable healing journey, especially in such a sensitive area.
- Implant Grade Titanium: As a completely nickel-free and biocompatible metal, titanium is the gold standard for anyone with metal sensitivities. It's lightweight and perfect for initial piercings.
- 316L Surgical Grade Stainless Steel: This is a durable and cost-effective option for many people. Just make sure you're buying from a reputable supplier to guarantee its quality.
Ready to find the perfect centerpiece for your face? Explore Bodycandy's incredible collection of hypoallergenic septum rings to discover your next favorite look.
4. Ear Cartilage Piercing (Helix)
Ready to move beyond the lobe? The helix piercing is a super popular and stylish choice for your first venture into cartilage. Located on the upper, outer rim of your ear, this piercing offers a cool, edgy vibe that you can customize to fit any aesthetic.
Jewelry Options & Styling
The helix is a fantastic spot to get creative. Once healed, you can rock everything from tiny studs to bold hoops. Many people opt for a "double" or "triple" helix, stacking multiple piercings along the ear's curve for a decorated look. Flat back labret studs are a comfortable and secure option, especially for initial jewelry.
Healing Time & Aftercare
Cartilage piercings require more patience and care than lobe piercings, as they heal much more slowly.
- Healing Time: A helix piercing can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to fully heal. Be patient and consistent with your aftercare routine.
- Basic Aftercare: Clean the piercing twice a day with a sterile saline spray. Avoid sleeping on the pierced side to prevent irritation bumps. Be very careful with headphones, phones, and hair products.
Hypoallergenic Recommendations
Using high-quality, body-safe metals is even more critical for sensitive cartilage piercings to prevent complications.
- Implant Grade Titanium: This is the gold standard for initial helix piercings. It's lightweight, nickel-free, and biocompatible, minimizing the risk of irritation.
- 14k or 18k Gold: Solid gold (not plated) is another excellent choice, offering a classic look that's safe for most skin types. Just ensure it's nickel-free.
Looking to add some sparkle to your cartilage? Explore Bodycandy’s gorgeous collection of helix piercing jewelry to find the perfect piece to elevate your style.
5. Eyebrow Piercing: The Edgy Accent
Ready to make a bold statement? The eyebrow piercing is a fantastic way to add a striking accent to your face. Placed vertically or diagonally through the ridge of your eyebrow, this piercing draws attention to your eyes and creates a distinctly edgy, yet sophisticated, aesthetic.
Jewelry Options & Styling
The most common jewelry styles for an eyebrow piercing are curved barbells and captive bead rings (CBRs). A curved barbell follows the natural shape of your brow for a snug fit, while a hoop adds a more noticeable circular element. You can find these styles with simple metal balls, sparkling gems, or unique charms to match your personal look.
Healing Time & Aftercare
Eyebrow piercings are a type of surface piercing, meaning they require diligent aftercare to heal properly and avoid migration.
- Healing Time: You can expect a healing period of 2 to 3 months. It’s important to be patient and stick to your aftercare routine!
- Basic Aftercare: Clean the area twice daily with a sterile saline solution. Be extremely gentle and avoid playing with the jewelry. Watch out for snags on clothing and towels, and avoid getting makeup in the piercing until it's fully healed.
Hypoallergenic Recommendations
Since this piercing is on a sensitive area of your face, choosing a high-quality, hypoallergenic material is crucial to prevent irritation.
- Implant Grade Titanium: This is the best choice for a fresh eyebrow piercing. It's completely nickel-free, lightweight, and biocompatible, minimizing the risk of a reaction.
- 316L Surgical Grade Stainless Steel: A reliable and widely used option, surgical steel is durable and body-safe. Ensure you are getting it from a reputable source to guarantee its quality.
Looking for the perfect piece to showcase your new look? Explore Bodycandy’s collection of eyebrow rings to find high-quality jewelry for your edgy style.
6. Lip Piercing (Labret): Make Your Statement
Ready to let your smile do the talking? A lip piercing is a bold and expressive way to highlight one of your best features. The labret piercing, specifically, is a classic choice placed just below the center of your lower lip. It's a versatile spot that can look edgy or delicate, depending on how you style it.
Jewelry Options & Styling
The labret is typically started with a flat back labret stud, which sits flush against the inside of your lip to protect your teeth and gums. Once healed, you can switch to a stylish hoop or a circular barbell. This piercing can be customized with different ends like simple balls, sparkling gems, or unique shapes to match your vibe.
Healing Time & Aftercare
Oral piercings require special attention to both the inside and outside of the piercing to ensure a smooth healing process.
- Healing Time: A labret piercing generally takes 6 to 8 weeks to fully heal. You'll need to be diligent with your aftercare.
- Basic Aftercare: Clean the outside twice daily with a sterile saline solution. For the inside, rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free oral rinse after every meal. Avoid spicy foods and excessive touching to prevent irritation.
Hypoallergenic Recommendations
Choosing the right metal is crucial for a happy piercing, especially in a sensitive area like your lip.
- Implant Grade Titanium: This is the gold standard for body jewelry. It's 100% nickel-free, lightweight, and biocompatible, making it the safest choice for a new piercing.
- 316L Surgical Grade Stainless Steel: A reliable and common option, surgical steel is durable and body-safe. Always choose implant-grade steel from a reputable supplier.
Looking for the perfect piece to show off your smile? Explore Bodycandy’s huge collection of hypoallergenic labret jewelry to find your next favorite look.
7. Tongue Piercing: A Bold Statement
Ready to make a truly bold statement? The tongue piercing is an iconic choice that’s been a staple in alternative culture for decades. Placed vertically through the center of the tongue, this piercing is a daring and dynamic way to express yourself.
Jewelry Options & Styling
The classic jewelry for a tongue piercing is a straight barbell. The initial barbell will be longer to accommodate swelling, but you'll need to downsize to a shorter post once the healing is underway to protect your teeth and gums. You can customize your look with different tops, from simple metallic balls to vibrant gems.
Healing Time & Aftercare
Oral piercings require dedicated aftercare due to the high amount of bacteria in your mouth.
- Healing Time: A tongue piercing typically heals in 4 to 8 weeks. Consistent aftercare is key to a smooth process.
- Basic Aftercare: Use an alcohol-free antimicrobial or saline mouthwash after meals. During the initial swelling, suck on ice chips and stick to soft, cold foods. Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and smoking.
Hypoallergenic Recommendations
Choosing a body-safe material is crucial for a healthy oral piercing. Poor quality metals can cause significant irritation in such a sensitive area.
- Implant Grade Titanium: This is the ideal choice for its biocompatibility and nickel-free composition. It's lightweight and comfortable, which is perfect for oral jewelry.
- 316L Surgical Grade Stainless Steel: A reliable and widely used option. Ensure it's from a reputable supplier to guarantee it's safe for long-term wear.
Ready to find the perfect piece for your piercing? Explore Bodycandy’s wide selection of high-quality tongue rings to complete your bold look.
8. Navel Piercing (Belly Button): The Iconic Statement
Get ready to embrace a classic look! The navel piercing, more commonly known as the belly button piercing, is a bold and beautiful way to adorn your midsection. Typically placed through the upper rim of the navel, it allows jewelry to dangle elegantly, making it a standout feature.
Jewelry Options & Styling
The most popular jewelry for a navel piercing is the curved barbell, often called a belly ring. These come in endless styles, from simple gems to elaborate dangles with intricate charms. This piercing is a fantastic way to add a pop of sparkle, especially with crop tops or swimwear.
Healing Time & Aftercare
Due to its location, a navel piercing requires dedicated aftercare, as it’s in an area with a lot of movement and friction.
- Healing Time: A navel piercing can take a while to fully heal, typically between 9 to 12 months. Patience is key to a healthy, happy piercing.
- Basic Aftercare: Clean the piercing twice a day with a sterile saline solution. Avoid tight-fitting clothing and high-waisted pants that could snag or put pressure on the jewelry.
Hypoallergenic Recommendations
The skin around your navel can be sensitive, so choosing a high-quality, body-safe metal is non-negotiable to prevent irritation.
- Implant Grade Titanium: This is the gold standard for sensitive skin. It’s 100% nickel-free, lightweight, and biocompatible.
- 316L Surgical Grade Stainless Steel: A durable and widely used material that's a great choice for healed piercings. Always buy from a reputable source to ensure it meets quality standards.
Ready to add some sparkle to your stomach? Explore Bodycandy's incredible collection of hypoallergenic belly button rings and find the perfect piece to showcase your style.
9. Industrial Piercing: The Connected Statement
If you're looking to make a bold statement with your ear jewelry, the industrial piercing is an iconic choice. This unique piercing consists of two separate holes in the upper ear cartilage connected by a single, straight barbell. It's a striking and edgy look that instantly draws attention.
Jewelry Options & Styling
The classic industrial look is achieved with a long, straight barbell, but the creative options don't stop there. Barbells come in various designs, featuring arrows, intricate centerpieces, or dangling charms. It's crucial that your ear anatomy is suitable for this piercing, so always consult an experienced piercer to see if you're a good candidate.
Healing Time & Aftercare
The industrial is essentially two cartilage piercings healing at once, so it requires patience and diligent care.
- Healing Time: Be prepared for a longer healing journey of 9 months to over a year.
- Basic Aftercare: Clean both piercing sites twice daily with a sterile saline solution. Avoid sleeping on the pierced side. Be extremely careful with hair, headphones, and glasses to avoid snagging the long barbell.
Hypoallergenic Recommendations
Using the right metal is non-negotiable for a sensitive piercing like the industrial.
- Implant Grade Titanium: This is the best choice for an industrial piercing. It's nickel-free, lightweight, and biocompatible, reducing the risk of allergic reactions during the long healing period.
- 316L Surgical Grade Stainless Steel: A durable and body-safe option, surgical steel is great for healed piercings. Make sure it comes from a reputable supplier.
Ready to take on this incredible piercing? Explore Bodycandy's collection of industrial barbells to find the perfect style for your new look.
10. Dermal Anchor (Microdermal Implant): The Singular Statement
Ready to take your piercing game to a whole new level? Dermal anchors offer a unique way to adorn almost any flat surface of your body. Unlike traditional piercings, a dermal anchor is a single-point piercing where a base is implanted just beneath the skin. This creates the illusion of jewelry sitting directly on your skin—a stunning look!
Jewelry Options & Styling
The magic of a dermal anchor lies in its interchangeable tops. You can unscrew the visible jewelry top and swap it out with countless designs, like sparkling gems or sleek metallic discs. Popular placements include the cheekbones, collarbones, and chest, allowing for a truly customized look.
Healing Time & Aftercare
Dermal anchors require diligent and specialized aftercare, as they are more prone to rejection or migration.
- Healing Time: The initial healing phase is typically 1 to 3 months, but the piercing can remain sensitive for longer.
- Basic Aftercare: Clean the area twice daily with a sterile saline solution. Be extremely careful not to snag the jewelry on clothing, towels, or loofahs. Keeping the area clean and dry is key.
Hypoallergenic Recommendations
The material for the anchor base must be biocompatible to live happily under your skin.
- Implant Grade Titanium: This is the industry standard and the only truly safe material for the implanted base. Its biocompatible, nickel-free nature minimizes the risk of rejection.
- Jewelry Tops: While the base must be titanium, your interchangeable tops can be made from various high-quality materials, including 14k gold and 316L surgical steel, as long as your skin is fully healed.
Want a deeper dive into this unique piercing style? For more details, you can learn more about the complete dermal piercing and jewelry overview to see if it’s the right choice for you.
Visual Comparison of 10 Body Piercings
| Piercing | Complexity 🔄 | Resources & Healing ⚡ | Expected Results ⭐📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages / Risks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Earlobe Piercing | Low — simple studio puncture | Low effort; healing 4–6 weeks; basic saline care | Subtle, versatile, low complication rate | First-time piercings; professional settings; everyday wear | ✅ Easy care & versatile jewelry · ⛔ Keloid/stretching risk |
| Nose Piercing (Nostril) | Medium — precise nostril placement | Moderate care; healing 2–4 months; gentle nasal hygiene | Highly visible and customizable; cultural significance | Expressive facial accent; cultural/traditional use | ✅ Concealable with retainer · ⛔ Rejection/infection risk |
| Septum Piercing | Medium — requires septal membrane accuracy | Moderate care; healing 3–6 months; saline soaks | Distinctive, can be flipped/hid; moderate permanence | Bold look with option to conceal for work/events | ✅ Hideable · ⛔ Misplacement may affect breathing, swelling |
| Ear Cartilage (Helix) | Medium–High — cartilage technique needed | Higher care; healing 6–12 months; avoid pressure/contact | Visible rim stacking; slower cartilage healing | Multiple ear arrangements; aesthetic stacking | ✅ Versatile placement · ⛔ Longer healing, higher infection/keloid risk |
| Eyebrow Piercing | Medium — surface/dermal technique | Moderate care; healing 6–8 weeks; watch for migration | Striking facial statement but high rejection rate | Fashion statements; alternative looks when visibility desired | ✅ Quick removal/changeable · ⛔ High rejection/scarring, nerve risk |
| Lip Piercing (Labret) | Medium — oral-area considerations | Increased oral care; healing 2–3 months; rinses after meals | Bold, visible; potential dental/gum effects | Expressive lip jewelry; alternative fashion | ✅ Wide jewelry options · ⛔ Gum recession, tooth damage, infection |
| Tongue Piercing | Medium — muscle piercing with swelling | Intensive short-term care; healing 3–4 weeks; expect swelling | Fast healing, often concealed; oral complications possible | Concealable oral modification; fast-healing preference | ✅ Fast healing due to blood flow · ⛔ Severe initial swelling, tooth/gum damage |
| Navel Piercing (Belly Button) | Medium–High — surface placement matters | Extensive care; healing 6–9 months to 1+ year; avoid friction | Decorative and concealable; prone to migration | Body focal point for midriff exposure; jewelry display | ✅ Concealable & decorative · ⛔ Long healing, high rejection, pregnancy issues |
| Industrial Piercing | High — dual cartilage alignment required | Intensive care; healing 6–12+ months; expert piercer needed | Bold connected statement; higher failure/migration risk | Distinctive ear statement for suitable anatomy | ✅ Unique look/customizable · ⛔ Not all anatomies fit, high rejection, long healing |
| Dermal Anchor (Microdermal) | High — implant procedure/surgical skill | Significant care & cost; healing 3–12 months; monitor closely | Singular 3D accent; unpredictable permanence | Creative placements; unique spotlight pieces | ✅ Placement versatility · ⛔ High migration/rejection, possible surgical removal, costly |
Feeling Inspired? It's Time to Accessorize!
And there you have it—your ultimate list of body piercings with pictures to kickstart your next style adventure! We've journeyed from the classic earlobe stud to the bold industrial bar. Hopefully, you're feeling inspired and more confident about choosing the perfect piercing to express your unique personality.
This guide is your roadmap to navigating the exciting world of body modification. You're now equipped with essential knowledge on placement, healing times, and jewelry options for some of the most popular piercings out there.
Your Piercing Journey: Key Takeaways
Remember, a successful piercing journey is built on three crucial pillars:
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Professional Expertise: Your experience begins with a reputable, skilled piercer. Their expertise ensures precise placement and a safe, hygienic procedure that sets you up for smooth healing.
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Diligent Aftercare: Healing is a commitment. Following aftercare instructions—like using a saline solution and avoiding irritation—is the most important thing you can do to prevent complications.
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High-Quality Jewelry: What you put in your body matters. Choosing hypoallergenic materials like implant-grade titanium or surgical steel is crucial, especially for a fresh piercing.
What's Your Next Step?
Now that you're armed with all this information, what's next? The most exciting part: making it your own. Your body is a canvas, and every piercing is a new brushstroke in your personal masterpiece. Choose what makes you feel amazing.
Think about your personal style, your daily activities, and what kind of statement you want to make. Are you drawn to the subtle sparkle of a nostril stud, the edgy symmetry of a labret, or the playful charm of a navel ring? The possibilities are endless.
So, go ahead and dream up your next look. Plan that piercing you've been considering, or start thinking about how to upgrade the jewelry in your existing collection. Your unique style story is waiting to be told, one beautiful piercing at a time.
Ready to turn that inspiration into reality? Your perfect piece of jewelry is waiting. As the world's #1 online body jewelry store, BodyCandy has an unparalleled collection to match every piercing on this list and beyond.
Explore the massive collection and find your new favorite jewelry at BodyCandy today!
