---
url: https://www.star-piercing.ch/eng/Risks-associated-with-piercings
type: blog
published: 2026-02-20T11:43:31+01:00
categories: Wiki Piercing
---

# Risks associated with piercings

> Piercings are generally safe if they are pierced correctly and proper aftercare is followed. However, there are some potential risks and complications that can occur...

![Risks associated with piercings](https://www.star-piercing.ch/media/image/news/13/xl/wiki_gefahr_preview.jpg)

Piercings are generally safe if they are pierced correctly and proper aftercare is followed. However, there are some potential risks and complications that can occur. This should not be an obstacle to getting a piercing, but you should be well informed beforehand so that you act correctly in the event of possible complications.

Here are the most common risks associated with piercings:

**Infections**

- **Cause**Bacteria can enter the stitch canal if care is inadequate or the piercing area comes into contact with unclean hands or unclean tools.
- **Symptoms**Redness, swelling, pain, pus secretion or unpleasant odor.
- **Prevention**Keep the piercing clean and disinfect it regularly. Always wash your hands before caring for the piercing and avoid touching the jewelry unnecessarily.

**Rejection of the piercing**

- **Cause**The body may react negatively to the piercing and try to fight it off by pushing the piercing material outwards.
- **Symptoms**The piercing may hurt, swell and become inflamed.
- **Prevention**Use high-quality jewelry made of hypoallergenic material such as titanium or surgical steel to reduce the risk of rejection.

**Scarring (game meat / hypergranulation)**

- **Cause**Some people are prone to excessive scarring, especially if they are genetically predisposed to it. This can occur with piercings if the body produces more tissue than is necessary.
- **Symptoms**Excess, raised scar tissue that grows beyond the piercing area.
- **Prevention**Take care to look after the piercing properly and do not rub it unnecessarily. If wild meat / hypergranulation is suspected, treatment with hydrogen peroxide or a silicone disc should be started.

**Piercing injuries**

- **Cause**Pulling on the jewelry, catching on clothing or bumping against the piercing area can cause injuries.
- **Symptoms**Pain, bleeding, tears in the piercing channel.
- **Prevention**Avoid touching the piercing unnecessarily and do not wear tight, scratchy clothing that can catch on the jewelry.

**Allergic reactions to jewelry materials**

- **Cause**The body can have an allergic reaction to certain materials such as nickel or other alloys in jewelry.
- **Symptoms**Itching, redness, swelling, rashes.
- **Prevention**Choose piercing jewelry made from hypoallergenic materials such as titanium or Bioflex.

**Bleeding**

- **Cause**Piercings, especially in areas with many blood vessels such as the nose or tongue, can lead to more severe bleeding if a blood vessel is injured.
- **Symptoms**Persistent bleeding after piercing.
- **Prevention**An experienced piercer avoids piercing areas with larger blood vessels and uses sterile needles to minimize injury.

**Pain or discomfort during healing**

- **Cause**With any piercing, a certain amount of healing pain and discomfort is normal. However, sometimes there may be persistent or severe pain.
- **Symptoms**Persistent pain that goes beyond the normal healing time.
- **Prevention**If pain or discomfort persists, a piercer or doctor should be consulted.

**Oral health risks (for oral piercings)**

- **Cause**Piercings in the mouth area, such as tongue or lip piercings, can increase the risk of dental problems, gum recession or infections.
- **Symptoms**Teeth can be damaged by the jewelry or gum inflammation can occur.
- **Prevention**Avoid biting the jewelry frequently and ensure good oral hygiene to prevent infections.

**Loss of jewelry**

- **Cause**The jewelry may come loose or fall out due to movement or friction.
- **Symptoms**The jewelry is pulled out of the piercing.
- **Prevention**Make sure that the jewelry fits well and check regularly that it is screwed on tightly.

**Ingrown piercings**

- **Cause**If the piercing channel does not heal properly or if the jewelry is too tight, the piercing can become ingrown, which can lead to pain and infection.
- **Symptoms**Painful area, redness, pus formation.
- **Prevention**Make sure you choose the right jewelry for your piercing and avoid changing the jewelry too soon.

**General recommendations for avoiding hazards:**

- **Have your piercing done by a professional piercer**An experienced piercer uses sterile tools and ensures that the piercing area is clean and correct.
- **Follow the care instructions**Make sure you care for your piercing thoroughly and regularly to avoid infections and other complications.
- **Avoid unnecessary friction or movement**Do not rub the piercing area unnecessarily and avoid touching the jewelry too often.
- **Watch out for signs of complications**If you notice symptoms such as persistent pain, redness, pus or other unusual signs, consult a piercer or doctor in good time.

With proper care and attention, you can minimize many of the potential problems with piercings and reduce the risk of complications.

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