Microdermals are often referred to as “surface anchors” as they feature a base that sits under the surface of the skin – similar to how a wall anchor sits inside of a wall (on a much smaller scale). Piercees get a choice in what top they would like screwed onto their microdermal – this is all that is seen on the outside.

Surface piercings are done with a barbell that looks like a staple (which sits under the surface of the skin, and has an entrance and exit). Both ends are interchangeable and are what is seen on the outside.

Both microdermal and surface piercings are not permanent and will eventually “reject.” Rejection is when the body eventually sees your jewelry as a threat and begins to push that jewelry out. Why does this happen? It’s because this type of piercing is placed on areas that are not able to be pierced through. For example, a nostril piercing goes through the nostril and heals similar to how a tunnel is open from one end to the other.

It is important to remove the jewelry and retire the piercing when this process begins. When your piercing begins to reject,  it will ultimately bring the tissue with it. This results in scar tissue that can often be discolored, raised, etc. Oftentimes, this is preventable if you are quick to contact a reputable piercing studio** to confirm if your microdermal or surface piercing is rejecting. Then, proceed to follow your professional piercer’s recommendations.

Re-piercing in the same area is generally not recommended but can be confirmed with an in-person consultation.

**We highly recommend finding a piercer who is a member of the Association of Professional Piercers. Find your local APP member here

Microdermals and surface piercings can last for a matter of months or years. If you do the following, you most likely can prolong the lifespan of your piercing:

• Keeping the area clean of cosmetics, perfumes, lotions, etc.
• Do your aftercare routine on a normal basis. We recommend one time per day for the first 3 to 4 months after being pierced. Afterward, continue this routine any time the piercing gets irritated, snagged, etc.

We suggest

• Wait 24 hours before showering (unless you can waterproof the piercing with a waterproof bandage).
• Hot towel compress the piercing with a clean face rag (with no loops in the fabric) for a minimum of 1 minute. This can be done in either the shower or directly after the shower. Allow hot water to run over the rag and then ring out the rag, blanket the rag over your microdermal or surface piercing and apply firm pressure directly on top of the top.
• Pat dry with paper towel once done compressing. If there are visible “crusties” (white, yellow discharge) the piercee can wipe this discharge off, do not wipe or attempt to wipe under the top.