Surface Piercing vs. Dermal Piercing

If you like piercings, this is for you! If you're looking for something different, surface piercings and dermal piercings might be perfect. But what exactly makes them different? Let's look at what these piercings are like, what you need to be careful about, and how to take care of them.

Surface piercings represent a more contemporary style compared to traditional ear or nose piercings. Surface piercings gained prominence in the late 20th century alongside the rise of body modification trends, while subdermal piercings (also known as microdermals) emerged around the early 2000s, offering a novel method to secure jewelry using a single puncture point.

A surface piercing is a body piercing where the jewelry passes underneath a flat skin area rather than through a natural protrusion like an ear or nostril. The piercing uses a specially designed barbell, typically shaped in an "L" or "U" curve, to accommodate the flat surface and minimise pressure on the entry and exit points. The best places to get a surface piercing are the nape, hips, or chest, where the skin is nice and flat and flexible enough to prevent excessive tension. The great thing about this design is that, because it's horizontal, you can really have fun with placement and choose your jewellery to reduce the risks of rejection and migration.

Dermal piercing, also known as microdermal piercing or anchor piercing, is a method of piercing that involves securing a small metal anchor beneath the surface layer of the skin. Unlike traditional piercings, dermal piercings lack visible entry and exit points; instead, the jewelry is anchored in place by this metal anchor. The anchor typically features small holes or grooves that allow skin tissue to gradually grow into it, thereby stabilizing the jewelry. This creates the illusion that the visible ornament is directly embedded within the skin.

Dermal piercings offer exceptional placement flexibility, suitable for nearly any location, including hands, collarbones, cheeks, and more. Their compact size and clean lines make them popular among piercing enthusiasts who prefer understated yet stylish designs. However, healing varies by body part, and areas with frequent movement require extra care and attention to ensure proper healing.

Technique: Surface piercings require a barbell, while dermal piercings use an anchor and a single jewelry top.

Healing: Dermal piercings tend to heal faster due to their single-point entry, while surface piercings are more prone to rejection.

Removal: Surface piercings can be easily removed, whereas dermal piercings require a professional to extract the anchor.

Customizable placements: Surface piercings work well on flat areas of the body, offering plenty of creative placement options like the nape, hips, or collarbone.

Easier to remove: Unlike dermals, surface piercings are non-invasive to remove, leaving minimal scarring in most cases.

Variety of jewelry options: Surface barbells come in numerous styles, materials, and finishes to suit personal preferences.

Higher rejection and migration risks: Due to tension on the surface, the body may push the jewelry out over time.

Longer healing period: Surface piercings may take 6–12 months to heal completely, requiring patience and proper aftercare.

Vulnerability to friction: Piercings in high-motion areas may snag on clothing or accessories, increasing the likelihood of irritation or injury.

Unique and sleek aesthetic: Dermals provide a “floating” jewelry appearance that is minimalist and elegant.

Highly versatile: These piercings can be placed almost anywhere on the body, even in unconventional locations like fingers or cheeks.

Quick healing: With only one point of entry, dermals generally heal faster initially compared to surface piercings. Dermal piercings may cause some discomfort during the procedure, so you might be wondering, "do dermal piercings hurt?" Pain levels vary from person to person, but many find it tolerable.

Difficult removal process: Removing a dermal anchor requires professional intervention, which can sometimes cause scarring.

Prone to migration or displacement: If not properly cared for or placed in high-stress areas, dermal anchors may shift or become dislodged.

Risk of snagging: Jewelry placed in areas subject to frequent contact or movement is more likely to catch, causing discomfort or complications.

Surface Piercing: A professional marks the entry and exit points, uses a needle or scalpel to create a channel, and inserts a barbell.

Dermal Piercing: You'll be in the hands of an experienced piercer! They'll use a dermal perforator or needle to make a small incision, then insert an anchor under the skin. Finally, they'll secure the perforator to the skin. You might be wondering, "how do they do dermal piercings?" It's a precise process requiring a professional to ensure it’s done correctly.

Surface piercings are a type of piercing performed along the body's surface, often used to accentuate body contours or add a unique style. Here are several common types:

Nape Piercing: Located at the back of the neck, it's popular for its visible placement and suits those who prefer understated individuality.

Hip Piercing: Positioned on either side of the hips, it naturally accentuates the body's curves and suits those seeking symmetrical aesthetics.

Eyebrow Piercing: While traditionally considered a standard piercing, horizontal eyebrow piercings are technically surface piercings and can offer a modern twist.

Anti-Eyebrow Piercing: Positioned below the outer corner of the eye, it features clean lines with a decorative flair.

Sternum Piercing: Located on the chest, this piercing adds a touch of glamour and is often paired with jewelry that complements the neckline.

These piercings require precise placement and proper aftercare to minimize rejection risks, but their unique positioning makes them stand out as conversation pieces.

Dermal piercings are highly versatile and can be placed almost anywhere on the body, making them perfect for unique and personalized designs. Here are some popular choices:

Collarbone Dermal: These piercings sit just above the collarbone, creating a chic and sophisticated look that mimics the appearance of jewelry resting on the skin.

Cheek Dermal: Placed on the upper cheekbones, these piercings can enhance facial features and are often used to mimic beauty marks or add symmetry.

Back Dermal Piercing: Located on the lower back, near the dimples of Venus, these piercings are a playful and flirty choice that highlights the natural contours of the body.

Finger Dermal: A bold alternative to rings, finger dermals are becoming increasingly popular for their minimalist and modern aesthetic.

Wrist Dermal: Placed on the wrist, these piercings are subtle yet striking, often chosen for their ability to catch light and attention in a subtle way.

The flexibility of dermal piercings allows for creative and unconventional placements, but careful consideration of placement and aftercare is essential to avoid irritation or displacement.

• Clean the area twice daily with saline solution.
• Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands.
• Avoid tight clothing or accessories that could snag the jewelry.
• Follow your piercer’s advice on specific care instructions.

Pay close attention to our piercing blogs, and you'll see all the amazing precautions we take!

Surface Piercing: Curved or flat barbells made of titanium or surgical steel.

Dermal Piercing: Dermal tops made of titanium, featuring designs like gemstones or flat discs.

1. Rejection: Surface piercings are more likely to be rejected than other types because the jewellery can be more stressed, and it might gradually push out over time.
2. Infection: Both types of piercing can become infected if you don't keep them clean or don't take care of them properly. Keep the area around the piercing clean at all times, including the mouth.
3. Scarring: If you don't take care of it properly, or if you remove the jewellery, it may leave a mark. Be careful when handling it and during the healing process.

When choosing a piercing, think about what you like, what you'll need to do in your day-to-day life, and how much time you can spend on aftercare. Surface piercings can be placed in different positions, depending on what the person wants.Dermal piercings have a simple, clean look, with sharp lines, which is perfect for a subtle style. Talk to a professional piercer before choosing the best option for you.Now you have this information, you can decide which piercing is best for you and feel more confident about getting it done.