How Do Dermal Piercings Stay In: Understanding the Anchoring Process
Dermal piercings are a form of body modification where a piece of jewelry sits on the surface of the skin and is secured with an anchor that is embedded in the dermal layer underneath the flesh. Unlike ordinary body piercings, dermal piercings do not have entry and exit points for the jewelry. Instead, a single-point piercing is created, and the jewelry sits on the surface of the skin, giving the appearance of small beads on the skin’s surface.
One might wonder how dermal piercings stay in place without falling out. The answer lies in the anchor that is embedded in the dermal layer of the skin. The anchor is made of a flat, plate-like shape with holes in it, which helps hold it in place as the skin heals around it. The jewelry, which has a built-in thread, is then screwed onto the anchor, keeping it securely in place.
Dermal piercings can be done using a dermal punch or a needle. If a needle is used, the piercer will poke a hole in the skin and move the needle to create a small pocket beneath the skin where the anchor will be placed. The anchor must be pierced deeply enough so that it stays secure and the body won’t reject it. With proper aftercare, dermal piercings can last for several months to a few years before needing to be retired.
Understanding Dermal Piercings
Dermal piercings are a type of body modification that involves the insertion of a dermal anchor or base into the dermis layer of the skin. This anchor is used to hold a piece of jewelry in place on the surface of the skin. Unlike traditional piercings, dermal piercings do not have an entry and exit point. Instead, they are held in place by the anchor, which is inserted into the skin using a needle or dermal punch.
Anatomy of a Dermal Piercing
The dermal anchor is a small, flat, and usually round piece of metal that is inserted into the skin. It has a hole in the center where the jewelry is screwed in. The anchor is designed to sit just below the surface of the skin, where it will not be visible. The jewelry, which is usually a dermal top, is screwed into the anchor and sits on the surface of the skin.
The dermal anchor is made of various materials, including titanium, gold, stainless steel, surgical titanium, surgical stainless steel, and niobium. Piercers will use different materials depending on the client’s preferences and skin type.
The Dermal Piercing Procedure
The dermal piercing procedure involves creating a small hole in the skin using a needle or dermal punch. The piercer will then insert the dermal anchor into the hole and screw the jewelry into place. The procedure is relatively quick and painless, but it requires a skilled piercer to ensure that the anchor is inserted correctly and in the right location.
Before getting a dermal piercing, it is essential to research reputable piercers and check that they are licensed and experienced. It is also important to ensure that the area being pierced is suitable for a dermal piercing and that the skin is thick enough to hold the anchor in place.
Types and Materials
There are various types of dermal jewelry available, including dermal tops, dermal anchors, and dermal clusters. Dermal tops are the most common type of jewelry used for dermal piercings, and they come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials.
Dermal tops can be made of materials such as titanium, gold, and stainless steel. They can also be adorned with gems, crystals, and other decorative elements. Piercers will typically recommend a suitable material and design based on the client’s preferences and skin type.
In conclusion, dermal piercings are a unique and stylish form of body modification. They require a skilled piercer and careful aftercare to ensure that they heal properly and stay in place. With the right care and attention, dermal piercings can be a beautiful and long-lasting addition to anyone’s body art collection.
Aftercare and Healing
Dermal piercings require proper aftercare and healing to avoid complications such as rejection, infection, and tissue damage. This section will cover the initial aftercare, managing complications, and long-term care and removal of dermal piercings.
Initial Aftercare
After getting a dermal piercing, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by the piercer. Typically, the initial aftercare involves cleaning the piercing with saline solution or an antibacterial soap twice a day. Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or any harsh chemicals on the piercing as they can delay the healing process and cause tissue damage.
To clean the piercing with saline solution, mix 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt with 8 ounces of warm water. Soak a cotton ball or gauze in the solution and gently clean around the piercing. You can also use a piercing aftercare spray to clean the piercing.
Managing Complications
Complications such as infection, rejection, and hypergranulation can occur during the healing process. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, and discharge. If you suspect an infection, seek medical attention immediately.
Rejection occurs when the body tries to push out the piercing. Signs of rejection include the piercing becoming shallower, the jewelry moving around, and the skin around the piercing becoming thin. If you suspect rejection, remove the piercing and seek medical attention.
Hypergranulation is an overgrowth of tissue around the piercing. To treat hypergranulation, apply a small amount of tea tree oil to the area twice a day.
Long-Term Care and Removal
Once the piercing has healed, it’s important to continue caring for it to avoid complications such as scarring. Avoid changing the jewelry too often and make sure to use high-quality jewelry made from materials such as titanium or surgical steel.
If you decide to remove the piercing, it’s important to do so carefully to avoid damaging the surrounding tissue. Soak the piercing in warm water to soften the skin, then gently twist and pull the jewelry out. If you experience pain or resistance, seek medical attention.
In conclusion, proper aftercare and healing are crucial for the success of dermal piercings. Follow the aftercare instructions provided by the piercer, be aware of the signs of complications, and take steps to manage them if they occur. With proper care, dermal piercings can be a safe and stylish addition to your body art collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What mechanisms keep a dermal piercing anchored in the skin?
Dermal piercings are held in place by a small metal anchor, which is inserted underneath the skin. The anchor has a flat base that sits against the skin, and a small post that protrudes through a hole in the skin. The post is then screwed into a piece of jewelry that sits on top of the skin, holding the anchor in place. The skin grows around the anchor, effectively anchoring it in place.
What is the typical lifespan of a dermal piercing?
The lifespan of a dermal piercing depends on a variety of factors, including the location of the piercing, the quality of the jewelry, and how well the piercing is cared for. In general, dermal piercings can last anywhere from several months to several years. However, it is important to note that dermal piercings are considered to be semi-permanent, and should not be expected to last forever.
What are the different types of dermal piercing jewelry?
There are several different types of jewelry that can be used for dermal piercings, including flat disc anchors, ball anchors, and jeweled anchors. The type of jewelry used will depend on the location of the piercing and the personal preferences of the individual.
How is a dermal piercing removed, and what tools are used?
Dermal piercings are typically removed by a professional piercer using a pair of forceps and a scalpel. The piercer will use the forceps to grasp the anchor and gently lift it out of the skin. They will then use the scalpel to carefully cut the anchor free from the skin.
Can dermal piercings be placed anywhere on the body?
Dermal piercings can be placed on almost any flat surface of the body, including the chest, back, neck, and face. However, it is important to note that not all areas of the body are suitable for dermal piercings, and some areas may require more specialized jewelry.
What are the risks associated with dermal piercings?
Like any piercing, dermal piercings carry some risks, including infection, scarring, and rejection. It is important to choose a reputable piercer and to follow proper aftercare instructions to minimize these risks. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the signs of infection or rejection and to seek medical attention if necessary.
