So, you’re finally ready to get pierced—exciting stuff! But before you head into your session at Mantra Tattoo and Piercing in Denver, let’s go over what to do before a piercing appointment so you’re not walking in unprepared.

From hydration and hygiene to legal documents and lifestyle choices, here’s everything you need to know for a smooth and stress-free piercing experience.

What to Do Before a Piercing Appointment: The Essentials

Preparing your body (and your mindset) for a piercing can make a big difference in how well you handle the appointment and how quickly you heal afterward. Here’s how to prepare for a piercing the right way.

Sleep, Hydration, and Food Matter

Getting a solid night of sleep and drinking plenty of water the day before and the day of your piercing sets your body up for success. Your immune system is key to healing, and the calmer and more nourished you are, the better your experience will be.

Should You Eat Before a Piercing?

Yes, you absolutely should eat before a piercing. Ideally, have a balanced meal within two hours of your appointment. Skipping meals can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded, especially if you’re getting an oral or dermal piercing. Low blood sugar = bad vibes.

What to Wear and Bring

Be comfy, clean, and ready. We recommend wearing clothing that gives easy access to the piercing area (think loose tops for nipple piercings or tank tops for upper ear placements). Also, don’t forget:

• A government-issued photo ID

   

• For minors: proper legal documentation and a parent or guardian present

Bonus tip: if you’re getting an eyebrow piercing, skip the heavy makeup—your piercer will clean the area thoroughly anyway.

Cleanliness Counts

Make sure you shower before your appointment. We’re serious. Especially for body piercings below the belt—respect the studio and your artist by showing up fresh.

Also, brush your teeth beforehand if you’re getting any oral work done. Cleanliness now equals fewer complications later.

What About Medications, Alcohol, and Caffeine?

If you’re asking, can I use numbing cream before a piercing?—you’ll want to talk to your piercer directly. Most prefer you don’t, since numbing creams can affect the skin’s elasticity or healing.

Avoid alcohol or recreational substances before your piercing. Not only is it illegal for us to pierce someone under the influence, but alcohol also thins your blood and increases the chance of bleeding.

Caffeine can also heighten anxiety and heart rate, so lay off the energy drinks and triple espressos the day of. If you’re taking prescribed medications, double-check with your doctor or give us a call beforehand.

Oral Piercing Prep & Aftercare

Oral piercings like lip, tongue, or smiley piercings need a little extra care before and after your session. If you’re wondering what to do before a piercing appointment for anything inside your mouth, here’s how to set yourself up for a smooth heal.

Eat Cold, Soft Foods

Before your appointment, stock your fridge with things like smoothies, yogurt, pudding, and protein drinks. Afterward, these cold foods help minimize swelling and feel soothing on fresh piercings. Avoid spicy, sticky, crunchy, or crumbly foods for the first few days—they’ll only irritate the area and make healing harder.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Grab a new, soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently after every meal. Use alcohol-free mouthwash or a saline rinse (a clean saltwater solution) 3–4 times daily. Avoid clicking your jewelry against your teeth and definitely don’t play with it—no matter how tempting it is.

Medication Considerations

Avoid alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, and other blood thinners before your appointment, as they can increase bleeding. If you’re taking prescription medication, especially antibiotics, immune suppressants, or anything that affects healing, speak with your piercer ahead of time. They may advise rescheduling or suggest alternatives depending on your condition.

Jewelry Changes & Healing Support

After swelling goes down, you’ll need to come in for a shorter post to avoid damage to your gums or teeth. We’ll guide you through that process.

Supplements like vitamin C, zinc, and B vitamins can help your body heal faster. Want a full breakdown of healing timelines? Check out our post on belly button piercing healing.

Here’s What Not to Do Before a Piercing Appointment

While it’s important to know what to do before a piercing appointment, it’s just as crucial to understand what not to do:

• Don’t come in sick — If you’re under the weather, reschedule. Piercing a compromised immune system slows healing and puts others at risk.

   

• Don’t skip meals — Fainting, dizziness, and low blood sugar are common when clients haven’t eaten. Fuel your body beforehand.

   

• Don’t drink alcohol the night before or day of — It thins your blood and increases bleeding, making your piercer’s job harder and your healing slower.

   

• Don’t bring a crowd — One calm, supportive friend is helpful. A group of loud or anxious people? Not so much.

   

• Don’t rush the appointment — Give yourself enough time to fill out consent forms, ask questions, and settle in. This isn’t something you want to squeeze in between errands.

   

Planning ahead helps ensure a smooth, safe experience that sets the stage for a clean and healthy heal.

FAQs About Preparing for Your Piercing Appointment

What’s the minimum age to get pierced at Mantra Tattoo?

Minors aged 16–17 may be pierced with parent or legal guardian present. Both must show valid photo ID, and if names don’t match, bring a birth certificate too.

Can I swim after getting my ears pierced?

You’ll want to hold off for at least 4–6 weeks. Read our full post on swimming after ear piercings for best practices.

Do you use safe materials for piercings?

Absolutely. We prioritize high-quality metals like titanium and surgical steel. Learn more in our post on surgical steel and piercings.

How painful is a dermal piercing?

It’s quick but intense for a second. Read our dermal piercing guide for more on the process.

Learn What to Do Before a Piercing Appointment with Mantra Tattoo

We’re here for all your piercing needs and questions, including wondering what to do before a piercing appointment. Whether you’re planning something simple or you’re ready for that bold new step (like a nipple piercing? Check out pros and cons of nipple piercings).

We’ve been piercing Denver for years with a focus on cleanliness, creativity, and making sure our clients walk out confident. You can always get your questions answered by browsing our full Piercing FAQ page.

Let’s make your next piercing safe, smooth, and unforgettable. Come visit us at Tattoo and Piercing in Denver or reach out here.