Threading
Barbells, circular barbells, and curved barbells, as well as any other threaded piece of jewelry, can have one of two types of threading. This threading can either be on the surface of the barbell post, or hidden safely inside the bead of your jewelry.
External threading refers to barbells on which the threading would come in contact with your skin. This threading HURTS! It can also trap polish inside the threading, so even if properly sterilized, this jewelry style can contaminate your piercing. The only possible reason a piercing shop would carry external threaded jewelry is MONEY. A shop that carries externally threaded jewelry cares more about money than your safety. End of story. This is why the Association of Professional Piercers requires its members to use internally threaded jewelry.
Internal threading refers to barbells on which the
bead houses the threading, and inserts into a smooth,
slightly hollow barbell shaft. This threading is far
superior because it does not tear the wound it is
being inserted into. The less trauma done to your
piercing, the less problematic it will be. Internally
threaded jewelry also has beads that stay tighter, and
last longer than other, inferior designs. A shop that
carries EXCLUSIVELY internally threaded jewelry has
clearly put your safety above their profit. Sure, the
barbell may cost a few dollars more, but what price
can you put on your health? Of course, Rockstar Body
Piercing carries exclusively internally threaded
jewelry.
- Changing jewelry on your own can be challenging. Do
not change jewelry too soon, and consult your piercer
on whether you are ready to change your jewelry.
- Be very careful to buy appropriately sized
jewelry. If you do not know your jewelry size,
consult with your piercer to make sure you know what
to look for.
Warnings
- Body Jewelry sold at non-piercing retail stores,
mall shops and kiosks is consistently terrible
quality. Avoid it at all costs!
- Dangly, waterfall, chandelier, and ultra-ornate
navel barbells have never been made well. Our
experience with these has been negative in almost
every way.
- A "nose bone", or a piece of jewelry made for the
nostril with a gem at one end, and a fixed bead on the
other, can be very difficult to remove. In many
cases, we have had to cut these out of people. Buyer
Beware!
- Be very careful to buy appropriately sized
jewelry. If you do not know your jewelry size,
consult with your piercer to make sure you know what
to look for.