What Is a Dermal Piercing? A Complete Guide

If you’ve ever seen someone with a small piece of jewelry seemingly floating on their skin and wondered, “what is a dermal piercing, and how do dermal piercings work?”, you’re not alone. Unlike traditional piercings, which have an entry and exit point, dermal piercings use a small anchor placed under the skin to hold the jewelry in place. This makes them ideal for areas of the body that can’t support standard piercings.

From a microdermal piercing face placement to a dermal piercing in the neck, these piercings offer a unique, eye-catching aesthetic. But before you commit to getting a piercing like that, it’s important to understand how dermal piercings work, how they heal, and what kind of care they require.

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What Is a Dermal Piercing and How Does It Work?

So, what is a dermal piercing, and how does it differ from other body piercings? Unlike earrings or nose rings, which go completely through the skin, dermal piercings are single-point piercings. This means they only have an entry point, with a small metal anchor inserted under the surface of the skin.

To place the piercing, a piercer uses a needle or dermal punch to create a small hole. The anchor is then carefully inserted under the skin, leaving a post exposed for jewelry attachment. This gives the piercing a seamless appearance, making it look like the jewelry is simply sitting on top of the skin.

A cheek dermal piercing, for example, can create the illusion of a dimple, while a back dermal piercing placed along the spine adds a striking effect. No matter the placement, dermal piercings offer a stylish, modern look unlike any other.

Types of Dermal Piercings and Where You Can Get One

Since dermal piercings don’t require an exit hole, they can be placed almost anywhere on the body. Here are some of the most popular placements:

What Is a Dermal Piercing: Cheek Dermal Piercing

A cheek dermal piercing is a bold alternative to traditional cheek piercings. Some people place them to resemble dimples, while others use them to highlight their facial features.

What Is a Dermal Piercing: Back Dermal Piercing

A back dermal piercing is commonly done along the lower back dimples or spine. These piercings are stylish but require extra care since they’re prone to snagging on clothing.

What Is a Dermal Piercing: Dermal Neck Piercing

A dermal neck piercing or dermal piercing in the neck is another statement-making placement. Whether at the nape or along the collarbone, these piercings add a striking visual element.

What Is a Dermal Piercing: Dermal Ear Piercing

A dermal ear piercing is an alternative to cartilage piercings, allowing for unique jewelry placement on areas that normally can’t be pierced.

What Is a Dermal Piercing: Dermal on Throat

A dermal on throat is one of the more dramatic placements. This piercing requires extra care since the skin on the throat is thinner and more sensitive.

What Is a Dermal Piercing: Dermal Piercing Hand

A dermal piercing hand placement is bold, but because the hands experience constant movement and friction, these piercings may have a shorter lifespan.

Types of Microdermal Piercings

There are different dermal piercings, categorized by placement and jewelry type. Some of the most popular types of microdermal piercings include those on the face, neck, back, and hands. Each location has its own healing process and risks. Take a look at our gallery to find a tattoo, face or body piercing Denver location inspo image that works for you.

How Is a Microdermal Piercing Done?

If you’re wondering how dermal piercings are done, the process is relatively quick but requires precision.

The piercer cleans and marks the area to ensure correct placement.
A small hole is made using a needle or a dermal punch.
The anchor is inserted under the skin, creating a stable base for the jewelry.
The decorative top is screwed on, completing the piercing.

Unlike traditional piercings, where jewelry is threaded through an open hole, a microdermal piercing stays in place because the skin heals around the anchor, securing it in place.

Does a Dermal Piercing Hurt?

Pain levels vary based on placement, personal pain tolerance, and the method used. Many people describe dermal piercings as a strong pressure rather than a sharp pain. Areas with thicker skin, like the back or neck, may hurt less, while a double dermal piercing face placement could be more sensitive.

How Does a Dermal Piercing Stay In?

A dermal piercing stays in place thanks to its small anchor, which sits under the skin. Some anchors have holes in them, allowing tissue to grow through and further secure the jewelry. This is what makes dermal piercings different from surface piercings, which rely on a barbell to stay in place.

However, dermal piercings are not permanent. Over time, the body may begin to reject them, pushing them toward the surface until they fall out.

Dermal Piercing Healing and Aftercare

Healing times for dermal piercings vary depending on placement, but most take one to three months to fully heal. Proper care is crucial to prevent rejection and infection.

Dermal Piercing Healing Tips

Clean the piercing twice daily with saline solution.
Avoid touching or twisting the jewelry, as this can irritate the skin.
Protect the piercing from snagging on clothing, hair, or accessories.
Keep the area dry and avoid submerging it in water (pools, lakes, hot tubs) until fully healed.

If you notice redness, excessive swelling, or unusual discharge, consult your piercer immediately.

FAQs on What Is a Dermal Piercing?

How long does a dermal piercing last?

A dermal piercing can last anywhere from six months to several years, depending on placement, aftercare, and lifestyle factors.

Can you remove a dermal piercing yourself?

No. Professional removal is necessary to prevent scarring and tissue damage.

Will a dermal piercing leave a scar?

Yes, removing a dermal piercing can leave a small scar, especially if the skin was stretched during healing.

Can you get a dermal piercing over a tattoo?

Yes! Many people opt for a dermal piercing and tattoo combination to enhance their body art.

Are dermal piercings permanent?

No. While they can last for years, dermal piercings will eventually be pushed out by the body.

Final Thoughts

So, what is a dermal piercing? It’s a unique, stylish body modification that allows jewelry to be placed almost anywhere on the body. Whether you’re interested in a dermal ear piercing, a microdermal piercing face placement, or a dermal piercing hand design, choosing a skilled piercer is key to a safe and successful experience.

For expert Tattoo and Piercing in Denver, visit a trusted piercing shop that prioritizes safety and precision.