Start a Body Piercing Business: Step-by-Step Guide

Key Steps for Starting a Body Piercing Studio

Is a Body Piercing Business Right for You?

Before you look at equipment or layout, stop and look at yourself. You are taking on risk, responsibility, and long hours. You are also building something that can give you freedom and a strong sense of achievement.

Ask yourself if you truly want to own a business, not just escape a job you dislike. A simple way to work through the big questions is to review these points to consider before starting a business. They walk you through the realities of being the person in charge.

Passion matters in this field. You will deal with needles, blood exposure risk, nervous clients, and strict rules. When problems show up, passion keeps you focused on solutions instead of looking for a way out. You can explore this in more detail by reading about how passion affects your business.

• Are you moving toward a clear goal, or simply running away from a problem?
• Are you ready to trade a steady paycheck for uncertainty and responsibility?
• Can you handle long days and periods with little time off, especially during startup?
• Is your family on board with the commitment, time, and financial risk?
• Do you have or can you get the skills and funds needed to start and operate?

One powerful shortcut is to talk to body piercing studio owners outside your area, so you will not compete with them. Ask them what they like, what is hard, and what they wish they knew earlier. For help with this step, see this guide on getting an inside look at a business.

Understand How a Body Piercing Business Works

A body piercing business provides piercing services and sells body jewelry and related aftercare products. Revenue can come from both the procedure fees and the sale of quality jewelry and care items.

The business is usually small and local. Many people start as solo owners and later add staff as demand grows. You can run a small studio on your own if you keep your service list focused and manage your schedule.

Decide what type of body piercing business fits you. Your choice changes your costs, permits, layout, and staffing needs.

• Standalone piercing studio with a dedicated procedure room and small retail area.
• Piercing room inside a tattoo and body art studio.
• Piercing studio inside a jewelry or specialty store where local rules allow it.
• Location in a mall or shopping center with a private piercing room that meets health codes.

From there, decide if you will focus on common piercings only (ears, nose, simple body piercings) or if you will add advanced work once you are trained and allowed to perform it in your area.

Check Demand and Profit Potential in Your Area

Next, you want to know if there is enough demand and enough profit to make this business worth your time and money. This is not about guessing. It is about simple research that shows you what is realistic.

Start by looking at how many piercing studios already operate near you and what they offer. Then look at the local population, shopping areas, and trends. You can use this guide to understand supply and demand and apply it to your local market.

Your goal is to see whether your business can bring in enough to pay expenses and still pay you a reasonable income.

• List all body piercing studios within a reasonable driving distance.
• Note their services, prices, location type, and how busy they seem at different times.
• Check online reviews and social media to see how customers respond to them.
• Estimate how many clients per week you would need to cover rent, utilities, supplies, assistant wages if any, insurance, and your own pay.
• Decide how you will stand out, such as stronger hygiene practices, better client education, specialty jewelry, or particular styles of piercings.

Decide on Scale, Structure, and Support Team

For a body piercing business, most people start small. A single procedure room, a modest waiting area, limited staff, and careful control of costs. You can start as the only piercer and add team members later when revenue supports them.

Decide if you will operate entirely on your own, work with a partner, or bring in investors. Also decide whether you will hire staff at launch or run everything yourself at first. You can later adjust your structure as the business grows.

Many small U.S. businesses begin as sole proprietorships by default. As the business grows, owners often form a limited liability company to gain personal liability protection and a more formal structure. For a clear overview of registration options, see this guide on how to register a business.

• If you plan a small, owner-operated studio, a simple structure and small team may be enough at first.
• If you plan multiple rooms, several piercers, and a strong retail jewelry line, you will likely need more capital, a more formal structure, and more staff from the start.
• Consider building a small group of advisors, such as an accountant, lawyer, and insurance professional. You can learn more about this approach in the guide on building a team of professional advisors.

Skills You Need and How to Cover the Gaps

Running a piercing studio uses more than one skill set. You need strong technical piercing skills and solid health and safety knowledge. You also need basic business and communication skills to deal with clients and manage the paperwork.

Do not worry if you do not yet have every skill. You can learn them over time, get training, or hire help. The key is to be honest about what you do well and what you prefer to outsource.

Start by listing the skills needed to open and run the studio safely.

• Technical piercing skills: correct techniques, anatomy, jewelry selection, and placement for each piercing type you plan to offer.
• Infection control and safety: bloodborne pathogens training, correct use of an autoclave, surface disinfection, and correct use of personal protective equipment.
• Client handling: explaining procedures, managing fear and pain, and giving clear aftercare instructions.
• Basic administration: scheduling, recordkeeping, simple bookkeeping, and handling payments.
• Supplier management: choosing reliable suppliers for jewelry, disposable supplies, and sterilization products.

If you lack some of these skills, you can train with experienced piercers, take approved courses, or bring in staff or contractors for tasks like bookkeeping, website setup, or branding. You do not have to do everything yourself, but you should understand what needs to be done and who will do it.

Estimate Your Startup Costs and Plan Funding

Before you spend money, you need an honest estimate of what it will cost to open your studio. This includes the space, permits, equipment, supplies, branding, and a cushion of working capital for the first few months.

You can use this guide on estimating startup costs to build your own list. Once you know your costs, you can decide whether to use savings, ask for help from family or partners, or look at outside funding.

Make a detailed list of what you need to spend money on before you open.

• Business registration, body art permits, and inspection fees.
• Lease deposits and initial rent for a suitable studio location.
• Renovations and fixtures to meet health department and building requirements.
• Essential equipment and instruments for piercing and sterilization.
• Initial jewelry inventory and aftercare products.
• Branding, website, signage, and basic marketing.
• Working capital for rent, utilities, insurance, and supplies until your schedule fills.

Once you have your estimate, decide how you will fund it. Some owners use personal savings. Others combine savings with a small loan or partner contributions. If you plan to borrow, you can review this guide on how to get a business loan.

Choose Your Business Name and Core Brand

Your business name and brand should reflect the style and level of professionalism you plan to bring. In a health-sensitive industry like body piercing, your brand must also inspire trust and show that you take safety seriously.

Choose a name that is easy to spell, easy to say, and fits the services you offer. Check that the name is available with your state, and look for a matching domain and social media profiles. You can use this guide on selecting a business name to avoid common problems.

Once you select a name, think about how your brand will appear in every place your business shows up.

• Logo and visual style that look clean and professional.
• Corporate identity items such as letterheads, envelopes, and branded materials. See this guide on corporate identity for ideas.
• Business cards that clearly show your contact information and key services. You can review these business card tips before you order.
• A plan for your website so it fits your brand right from the start. This guide on how to build a website walks you through each step.
• Indoor and outdoor signs that meet local rules and attract the right customers. You can find practical points in this article on business sign considerations.

Choose a Location and Plan Your Studio Layout

The right location makes a big difference for a body piercing business. You want a place that is easy to find, safe, and allowed by local zoning and health rules. You also need a space that can meet strict layout and sanitation requirements.

Think about where your ideal customers already spend time. Busy shopping streets, near other personal service businesses, or inside a popular mall can work well if the cost and rules make sense. For a deeper look at choosing a location, see this guide on business location.

Next, consider how you will arrange the space so it supports safe and efficient work.

• Reception and waiting area with space for forms, jewelry displays, and seating.
• Private piercing room with a sink, easy-to-clean surfaces, good lighting, and space for equipment and staff movement.
• A separate sterilization area with an autoclave, ultrasonic cleaner, and storage for clean and used instruments.
• Storage space for supplies, aftercare products, and backup inventory.
• Office area for records, computer, and basic administration.

Before you sign a lease, check with your local planning or zoning department and building department. Ask whether the space can be used for a body art studio and whether you will need a new Certificate of Occupancy. Also check that your layout can meet health department requirements for sinks, surfaces, and room separation.

List Your Essential Equipment, Software, and Supplies

Opening a body piercing business requires more than a chair and a few needles. You need the right instruments, sterilization equipment, furniture, and software to protect your clients and meet health department standards.

Use this section as a starting checklist. You can adjust details based on your planned services and the rules in your area. Always confirm any special equipment requirements with your local health department before you buy.

Organize your list into categories so you can collect prices and plan your budget.

• Piercing instruments
  • Sterile, single-use piercing needles in appropriate gauges.
  • Receiving tubes and insertion tapers.
  • Forceps, clamps, ring openers and closers, and similar tools rated for piercing.
  • Sterile marking tools for skin, if allowed in your jurisdiction.
  • Sterile drapes, pads, and barrier films for work surfaces.
• Jewelry and display
  • Implant-grade metal jewelry, such as titanium and other approved materials.
  • High-quality stainless steel and gold jewelry that meet local rules.
  • Bars, labrets, rings, and decorative ends in common gauges and lengths.
  • Lockable display cases for jewelry.
  • Measuring tools such as calipers, ring sizers, and gauge tools.
• Sterilization and infection control
  • Steam autoclave, sized for your volume, with documentation and indicators.
  • Ultrasonic cleaner for instrument pre-cleaning.
  • Sterilization pouches, trays, and racks.
  • Chemical and biological indicators for sterilization monitoring.
  • Puncture-resistant sharps containers for used needles and sharp items.
  • Containers for other biomedical waste if required in your state or city.
  • Approved surface disinfectants for procedure areas.
  • Handwashing station with sink, soap, and single-use towels.
  • Gloves, masks, face shields or protective glasses, and protective gowns or aprons.
• Furniture and fixtures
  • Adjustable piercing chair or table.
  • Stools for the piercer and any assistant.
  • Stainless steel or non-porous work tables and instrument trays.
  • Lockable cabinets for sterile instruments and jewelry storage.
  • Reception desk, waiting room seating, and small tables for forms.
  • Retail shelving or cabinets for aftercare products and merchandise.
  • Task lighting and movable lamps for precise work.
• Administrative and software tools
  • Point-of-sale system for handling cash, cards, and receipts.
  • Scheduling software or booking platform for appointments.
  • Accounting software to track income, expenses, and taxes.
  • Customer record system to store consent forms and procedure details.
  • Computer or tablet, printer, and backup storage for files.
• Safety and emergency supplies
  • First-aid kit suitable for minor issues that may occur in a studio.
  • Eye-wash station if required by local safety codes.
  • Fire extinguishers that meet fire code requirements for your space.
  • Spill kits for handling blood or body fluid accidents.
• Cleaning supplies
  • Detergents and disinfectants for floors and surfaces.
  • Mops, buckets, and cleaning cloths reserved for studio use.
  • Disposable wipes and trash containers with appropriate liners.
  • Laundry service or equipment if you use reusable linens.

Handle Legal Registration and Health Department Requirements

Legal and health compliance are central to a body piercing business. Your studio will be inspected, and you must keep records and operate within clear rules. Start early on this step, because applications and inspections can take time.

Rules vary by state, county, and city. You need to confirm each requirement in your area. Professional help from an accountant or attorney can be very useful here, especially if you are new to business.

Use this section as a checklist of areas to research and complete.

• Business structure and registration
  • Decide whether to operate as a sole proprietor, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company.
  • Register your business with your state’s business registration office, often the Secretary of State.
  • Register a trade name or “doing business as” name if you will use one.
• Tax registration
  • Apply for a federal Employer Identification Number with the Internal Revenue Service if required for your structure or if you will have employees.
  • Register with your state’s tax agency if you must collect sales tax on jewelry and related items.
  • Set up employer withholding and unemployment accounts if you will hire staff.
• Local licenses and zoning
  • Obtain a general business license from your city or county if required.
  • Confirm that your location is zoned for a body art or personal services studio.
  • Check whether you need a new Certificate of Occupancy for your specific use.
• Body art and health department permits
  • Apply for a body piercing or body art establishment license if your state or county requires it.
  • Apply for individual piercer licenses if required where you live.
  • Submit floor plans, cleaning procedures, and sterilization details if requested.
  • Schedule and pass pre-opening health inspections.
• Safety and workplace rules
  • Set up an Exposure Control Plan that meets the bloodborne pathogens standard.
  • Provide required training for any employees who may be exposed to blood or body fluids.
  • Follow any state rules for medical or biomedical waste handling and disposal.

When looking for details, contact your Secretary of State, state Department of Revenue, and local city or county business office. Ask them where to find rules specific to body art and what licenses or permits apply before you open.

Protect Your Business With Insurance and Risk Planning

A body piercing business has higher risk than many other personal service businesses. You work with sharp instruments and live tissue, and problems can be serious. Insurance is one way to protect yourself and your studio from events you cannot fully control.

Start by reading this overview of business insurance so you understand the common types. Then speak with an insurance broker who has experience with body art studios.

Policies to ask about include the following.

• General liability insurance to help cover claims of injury or property damage at your location.
• Professional liability insurance for claims related to your services.
• Property coverage for your equipment, furniture, and inventory.
• Workers’ compensation, where required, when you hire employees.
• Any additional coverage required by your landlord or by local regulations.

Write a Simple, Focused Business Plan

Your business plan does not have to be long, but it should be clear. It keeps you focused during setup and gives you a tool to show lenders or partners if you need funding. Think of it as a working document that helps you make decisions.

If you have never written a plan before, start with this guide on how to write a business plan. Adapt the suggestions to fit a body piercing studio.

At a minimum, your plan should cover these points.

• What services and products you will offer and which you will not.
• Your target customers and local market research summary.
• Your location, layout, and how the design supports safety and client experience.
• Your pricing approach and how you expect to earn enough to cover costs and pay yourself.
• Your startup cost estimate and how you will fund the business.
• Your basic marketing approach and how you expect to attract your first customers.

Set Your Services and Pricing

Next, define exactly what you will offer on day one. A focused service list is easier to explain to customers and simpler to manage. You can always expand as your skills and demand grow.

Once you know your service list, you can set prices. Prices must cover your costs, reflect your skill level, and fit your local market. The guide on pricing your products and services can help you work through the numbers.

Build your service and product list step by step.

• Decide which piercings you will offer at launch, such as basic ear, nose, and navel piercings.
• Decide which advanced or specialist piercings you will delay until you have more training and experience.
• Create a list of standard jewelry options for each service, using only materials allowed by your local rules.
• Set clear prices for each procedure and for jewelry upgrades or changes.
• Plan bundled options, such as a piercing plus a basic jewelry package, if that fits your market.

Choose Suppliers and Build Professional Relationships

Reliable suppliers are crucial for a body piercing studio. You depend on them for safe jewelry, sterile supplies, and functioning equipment. Problems here can quickly affect your ability to operate.

Start early and compare more than one source for each main category. Look for suppliers with proven quality, clear documentation, and good support.

Make a short list of supplier types you will need.

• Jewelry manufacturers or distributors that supply implant-grade materials.
• Vendors of autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, and sterilization supplies.
• Suppliers of gloves, disinfectants, drapes, and other disposable items.
• Aftercare product suppliers, such as manufacturers of saline solutions.
• Local services for biomedical waste pickup, if required in your area.

At the same time, build your team of advisors. An accountant can help you set up your books. A lawyer can review your forms. An insurance broker can help you choose the right coverage. The article on professional advisors offers more ideas on this step.

Set Up Your Systems, Forms, and Day-to-Day Flow

Before you open, you need systems that make the workday clear and manageable. These systems cover appointments, consent, records, payments, and basic communication. Setting them up now will save you stress later.

Think through a typical client visit from start to finish. Then design your systems to support each step. This helps you see what forms, equipment, and software you still need.

Use the following list to prepare your basic systems.

• Appointment process: online booking, phone booking, or both.
• New client process: check identification, explain services, and review health questions.
• Consent forms: written consent and acknowledgement of risks for each procedure.
• Aftercare instructions: clear written instructions you hand to every client.
• Recordkeeping: secure storage for forms, procedure notes, and sterilization logs.
• Payment process: how you handle deposits, cancellations, and final payments.

For your own planning, it helps to review common startup mistakes to avoid. Many of them relate to weak systems that cause problems later.

Plan Your Marketing, Website, and Local Launch

Even the best studio cannot succeed if people do not know it exists. You need a simple, clear marketing plan that fits your budget and your target customers. Start with basics and build from there.

Your website is often the first place people will see your work, learn your policies, and decide whether to visit. Use the guide on building a website to plan the pages, photos, and information your site should have.

Then add simple local marketing steps that fit a brick-and-mortar body piercing business.

• Claim and complete your online business profiles so people can find you in local search.
• Use professional business cards to share your contact details with clients and local partners. You can check these business card tips before you order.
• Install a clear, attractive sign that meets local rules. This guide on business signs can help you plan.
• Plan a simple grand opening event or promotion to introduce your studio to the community. See these ideas for your grand opening.
• Study this article on getting customers through the door for more ways to bring people into your studio.

Pre-Opening Checklist for Your Body Piercing Studio

As you get close to opening day, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. A short checklist helps you see what is done and what still needs attention. This section focuses on the startup tasks that matter most before you see your first client.

Walk through these items one by one. Do not rush. It is better to open a little later and be ready than to open early and face problems with regulators or clients.

Use the list below to confirm you are ready to open.

• All required business registrations, licenses, and permits are approved and on file.
• Health department inspections are complete and any required changes have been finished.
• Your autoclave and sterilization process are tested and documented.
• Your equipment and supplies are in place, organized, and easy to reach.
• Your consent forms, aftercare sheets, and recordkeeping system are final and tested with a few sample cases.
• Your insurance policies are active and you understand your coverage.
• Your pricing, service list, and appointment process are clear and written down.
• Your website, sign, and basic marketing materials are live and correct.
• You have walked through a full “day in the life” from opening to closing to see if any steps are missing.

When you can check off this list with confidence, you are in a strong position to open your body piercing business. You will still learn and adjust, but your foundation will be solid and focused on safety, clarity, and professionalism.

101 Tips for Running Your Body Piercing Business

Use these focused tips as a working toolkit to plan, launch, and refine your body piercing business. Pick the ideas that fit your goals, follow all local health and business regulations, and keep adjusting your approach as you learn more from your day-to-day experience.

What to Do Before Starting

1. Clarify why you want to run a body piercing business, so you can stay motivated when you face long days, regulations, and unexpected costs.
2. Check your comfort level with needles, blood exposure risk, and close physical contact, because these realities are part of the work every day.
3. Study your state and local rules on body piercing, including licensing, inspection, and age restrictions, before you spend money on a location or equipment.
4. Talk with experienced piercers who operate in areas far from your proposed location so you can ask honest questions without competing with them.
5. Decide whether you will start with basic piercings only or plan for advanced procedures later, because your training, tools, and risks change with your service menu.
6. Identify what training, certifications, and apprenticeships you will need to meet health requirements and industry standards in your area.
7. Visit several piercing studios as a customer to observe cleanliness, workflow, and client interaction, and write down what you want to copy or avoid.
8. Estimate local demand by counting studios in your service area and noting how busy they appear at different times of day and on different days of the week.
9. Calculate roughly how many clients you would need per week to cover rent, utilities, supplies, and your own pay, using realistic prices and appointment times.
10. Decide whether you will start as a solo owner or plan from the beginning for a multi-piercer studio, because this affects your space, budget, and legal structure.
11. Choose a business structure with help from a professional, considering liability, taxes, and how easy it will be to bring in partners or staff later.
12. Contact your local zoning and building departments early to confirm where a body piercing studio is allowed before you sign a lease.
13. Create a startup budget that lists permits, build-out, furniture, equipment, jewelry, supplies, branding, and a cash cushion for the first few months.
14. Decide how you will fund the business, whether through savings, partners, or a loan, and make sure you can cover both startup costs and living expenses.
15. Identify an accountant, an insurance professional, and an attorney you can call when you need help with registration, contracts, or risk questions.

What Successful Body Piercing Business Owners Do

16. Keep strict hygiene standards every day, not just when inspections are due, so clean habits become automatic and reduce risk.
17. Maintain detailed consent, procedure, and sterilization records so they can prove compliance and learn from any incidents that occur.
18. Invest in ongoing education on infection control, anatomy, and new techniques, instead of assuming their initial training will last a whole career.
19. Use written procedures and checklists for every step, from opening the studio to closing, to reduce errors and keep quality consistent.
20. Schedule regular autoclave maintenance and biological testing and document results, treating sterilization as a core part of the business rather than a side task.
21. Build strong relationships with reliable suppliers so they have quick access to approved jewelry materials and critical disposable supplies.
22. Review incident reports and near misses to find root causes and adjust procedures instead of blaming the client or staff without analysis.
23. Lead by example by using protective equipment correctly and following every rule they set for staff.
24. Plan time off and recovery periods to avoid burnout, because a tired piercer is more likely to make mistakes.
25. Set clear priorities for upgrades and improvements, focusing first on safety and reliability, then on comfort and appearance.

Running the Business (Operations, Staffing, SOPs)

26. Write a step-by-step description of your client journey, from booking to follow-up, and use it to design your physical layout and daily routine.
27. Create written infection control procedures that cover handwashing, gloving, disinfection, and sterilization, and keep them where staff can easily read them.
28. Develop daily cleaning routines for high-touch areas and surfaces, plus weekly and monthly deep cleaning schedules for the entire studio.
29. Track inventory for needles, jewelry, gloves, and disinfectants so you know when to reorder and avoid running out during busy days.
30. Build opening and closing checklists that cover cash handling, equipment checks, cleaning tasks, and security steps.
31. Store client consent forms, identification records, and procedure notes in a secure system that is easy to search but protects privacy.
32. Set clear appointment rules, including deposits, cancellation windows, and identification requirements, and use them consistently.
33. Train every team member, even front desk staff, to understand basic hygiene expectations and how to avoid contaminating clean areas.
34. Cross-train staff on simple front desk tasks such as booking, payment processing, and basic questions so operations can continue if one person is absent.
35. Hold short, regular team meetings to review issues, safety reminders, and client feedback, keeping everyone aligned on standards.
36. Plan a maintenance schedule for chairs, lights, autoclaves, and other equipment so you fix small problems before they become major failures.
37. Prepare a written plan for medical emergencies, such as fainting or an unexpected reaction, and practice it so everyone knows their role.
38. Use clear procedures for handling cash and electronic payments, including reconciliation at the end of each day.
39. Create a structured training path for new piercers that covers observation, supervised work, and gradual expansion of allowed procedures.
40. Review staffing levels against your appointment book regularly so you are neither overstaffed nor understaffed during key hours.
41. Back up your digital records on a secure schedule so you can recover client and business information if equipment fails.

What to Know About the Industry (Rules, Seasons, Supply, Risks)

42. Understand that body piercing regulations vary by state and county, so you must read the rules where you operate instead of relying on advice from another region.
43. Recognize that exposure to blood and other body fluids is a core risk in this industry, which is why infection control and protective equipment are central to operations.
44. Know that many states have strict rules for piercing minors, often requiring documented consent and the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
45. Learn the accepted standards for initial jewelry materials so you can choose pieces that are appropriate for healing piercings.
46. Accept that improper sterilization or poor infection control can lead to serious illness and can also result in fines, closures, or loss of licenses.
47. Expect seasonal fluctuations, such as more appointments in warmer months when more skin is visible, and slower periods that require cash planning.
48. Realize that industry groups and professional associations often publish best practices that go beyond minimum legal requirements.
49. Understand that liability exposure is higher when you add more complex or high-risk procedures, so you should match your menu to your training and coverage.
50. Keep in mind that jewelry trends and preferred piercing placements change over time, and staying current helps you stay attractive to clients.
51. Be aware that public health events, such as outbreaks, can affect demand and may bring extra guidance or restrictions from health agencies.

Marketing (Local, Digital, Offers, Community)

52. Claim and complete your business listings on major search platforms so local customers can find accurate hours, contact details, and photos.
53. Use clear, high-quality photos of your studio and healed piercings to show your standards of work and cleanliness.
54. Build a website that explains your services, safety practices, studio rules, and aftercare instructions in straightforward language.
55. Encourage satisfied clients to leave honest reviews, and respond professionally to both praise and criticism.
56. Design educational posts for social media that explain piercing care, jewelry choices, and safety tips so you are seen as a trusted source, not just an advertiser.
57. Partner with nearby hair, beauty, or fashion businesses for referral arrangements that bring new clients to each of you.
58. Create simple printed materials that explain your services and policies, and leave them with non-competing businesses that serve similar customers.
59. Develop first-time client offers that reward people for trying your studio without undercutting your long-term pricing structure.
60. Offer referral rewards that thank existing clients for sending friends, while still keeping your main focus on quality and safety.
61. Track where each new client heard about you so you know which marketing efforts actually bring results.
62. Participate in community events where you can answer questions about safety and professionalism, even if you are not performing services at the event.
63. Use email or text reminders for appointments and jewelry checkups to reduce no-shows and encourage follow-up visits.
64. Highlight your hygiene practices and training in your marketing so clients understand the value behind your prices.
65. Keep your branding consistent across signs, website, and printed materials so customers immediately recognize your studio.

Dealing with Customers (Trust, Education, Retention)

66. Greet every customer promptly and respectfully, because first impressions set the tone for the entire visit.
67. Explain the procedure in clear steps before you begin, including what the client will feel and how long it will take.
68. Review risks and aftercare responsibilities in plain language so clients understand that their actions affect healing as much as your technique does.
69. Show clients your sterile instruments and clean setup when appropriate to build confidence in your hygiene standards.
70. Ask about lifestyle and work requirements before recommending jewelry, so placements and styles fit the client’s daily life.
71. Check in with clients during the procedure to monitor pain levels and anxiety and adjust your pace if needed.
72. Offer written aftercare instructions for every piercing and encourage clients to read them again at home.
73. Invite clients to return for jewelry downsizing or checks at set intervals to support healing and build repeat business.
74. Record preferences, such as jewelry styles and placement interests, in client files so you can personalize future visits.
75. Respect client privacy by not sharing personal stories, photos, or unique placements without clear, documented permission.

Customer Service (Policies, Guarantees, Feedback)

76. Write studio policies for identification, consent, minors, refunds, and rescheduling, and make them easy for clients to read before they book.
77. Explain your policies verbally when they affect a client’s visit, such as age requirements or documentation needed for certain services.
78. Design a standard process for handling complaints that includes listening fully, documenting facts, and offering appropriate solutions within your policies.
79. Respond quickly when clients contact you about signs of trouble, such as unusual swelling or pain, and guide them on when to seek medical care.
80. Be clear about what your studio guarantees, such as jewelry quality or free jewelry checks, and what falls outside those guarantees.
81. Train staff to stay calm, respectful, and factual when clients are upset, focusing on resolving the issue without blame.
82. Keep a log of complaints and compliments so you can see patterns and target improvements where they will have the most impact.
83. Invite feedback through simple channels, such as follow-up messages or short surveys, and use the insights to refine your systems.

Sustainability (Waste, Sourcing, Long-Term)

84. Choose jewelry suppliers that can provide material certifications and follow responsible sourcing practices so you protect both clients and your reputation.
85. Order jewelry and disposables based on realistic usage to reduce expired stock and avoid unnecessary waste.
86. Use reusable items where allowed and safe, such as non-porous trays and furniture, cleaning them thoroughly between uses.
87. Set up proper disposal for sharps and biomedical waste through approved channels, reducing environmental and legal risks.
88. Invest in high-quality equipment that can be repaired and maintained, rather than frequently replacing cheaper items.

Staying Informed (Trends, Sources, Cadence)

89. Follow professional piercing organizations and reputable safety groups to stay up to date on best practices and new guidance.
90. Subscribe to updates from health and safety agencies so you receive notices about regulations, disease outbreaks, or new standards.
91. Plan to attend workshops, classes, or conferences when possible to refine techniques and connect with other professionals.
92. Review current recommendations for jewelry materials and sterilization methods at least once a year and adjust your studio standards if needed.
93. Set aside regular time each month to read industry articles and research so staying informed becomes part of your routine, not an occasional task.

Adapting to Change (Seasonality, Shocks, Competition, Tech)

94. Track your appointment volume by month so you can plan staff schedules and supply orders for both busy and slow periods.
95. Build and maintain a cash reserve to cover rent, utilities, and basic expenses during unexpected downturns or closures.
96. Watch for changes in piercings and jewelry styles and consider adding new options once you are trained and stocked to handle them properly.
97. Update your studio policies and procedures whenever regulations or official guidance changes, and train staff on the updates.
98. Use technology such as online booking, automated reminders, and secure record systems to make your operations more efficient and resilient.

What Not to Do

99. Do not ignore health regulations or inspection findings, because small violations can quickly grow into serious legal and safety problems.
100. Do not offer piercings that exceed your training, comfort, or legal authorization, even if a client pressures you.
101. Do not dismiss client concerns about possible infection or complications; take every report seriously and guide them toward appropriate care.

Sources: U.S. Small Business Administration, OSHA, CDC, Association of Professional Piercers, Florida Department of Health, PubMed, Macomb County Government, Internal Revenue Service, Northeast Health District, State of Georgia