Navigating Belly Piercings for Minors in Singapore: Tips and Considerations
Looking for options for a belly piercing if you're under 18 in Singapore can be a challenging process, especially when there are no specific legal age limits for piercing. It's essential to understand the regulations, potential risks, and find a reputable piercer to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Regulations and Legalities
There is no specific legal age limit for belly piercings in Singapore. However, many piercing shops may have their own restrictions. It is important to note that as of a year ago, some shops required customers to be over 16 for certain piercings. The current regulations might have changed, but if you're under 18, it's advisable to be cautious and choose a reputable shop that follows best practices and safety standards.
Choosing the Right Piercing Method
When considering a belly piercing, it's crucial to avoid shops that exclusively use piercing guns. While some may claim to use needles, it's vital to ensure that the piercer has the necessary experience. Guns can cause jagged edges and increased healing time, which can lead to keloid scarring or even cartilage damage. Needle piercings, on the other hand, create clean, precise holes, leading to faster healing and a smoother recovery.
Seeking out Certified Piercers
Unfortunately, it appears that there are no Association of Professional Piercers (APP) certified piercers in Singapore. The APP is recognized globally for maintaining high standards of safety and training. If you're unable to find a certified piercer in Singapore, it may be worth considering traveling to nearby countries like Malaysia, where you are more likely to find reputable piercers.
Finding the Right Piercer
When searching for a qualified piercer, consider the following criteria:
No Gun Piercing: Piercers who only use guns should be avoided. Jewelry Type: Look for piercers who use internally threaded or pushpin implant-grade titanium jewelry. External threading, while often cheaper, can indicate the use of inferior materials. Questions and Comfort: The piercer should be open to answering your questions and making you feel comfortable throughout the process. Cleanliness and Hygiene: Ensure the studio has an autoclave and can provide sterilization spore test results. All equipment and initial jewelry should be autoclaved and in sterile packaging. Aftercare Recommendations: The recommended aftercare should include the use of sterile saline sprays and soaks. If other methods are suggested, it's best to find a different piercer. Brand Quality: Piercers who carry high-quality brands like Anatometal, LEROI, BVLA, and Maria Tash are a good indicator of professionalism and quality.Popular Piercers to Consider
While no specific advice is given on The Piercing Clinic, it is generally recommended to avoid shops that use guns. For a more detailed exploration of popular options in Singapore, you may want to join the Ask A Professional Piercer group on Facebook. This group can offer personalized recommendations and valuable insights.
In conclusion, navigating belly piercings as a minor in Singapore requires thorough research and a cautious approach. By following these guidelines and seeking out certified and reputable piercers, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.