Frequently Asked Questions
💎 Piercings & ages
Q: Which piercings do you offer?
A: We offer earlobe piercings only—typically the first through fourth piercings on the lobes. We do not pierce cartilage, noses, belly buttons, or any other body parts.
Q: Do you pierce babies and children?
A: Yes!
We pierce babies ages 3–12 months, as long as they’ve received their first Tdap vaccine.
We pierce children ages 3 and up, and recommend piercing both ears at the same time for those who are feeling a little nervous.
We also pierce teens, adults, and even grandmas! Everyone is welcome.
Q: Why don’t you pierce toddlers (ages 1–2)?
A: Toddlers often have difficulty sitting still and may touch healing piercings with unwashed hands, increasing the risk of infection. To ensure the safest experience and best outcome, we recommend piercing before 12 months or waiting until your child is at least 3 years old.
🩺 Safety & Hygiene
Q: What is the Blomdahl method?
A: The Blomdahl Medical Ear Piercing System was developed in Sweden by medical professionals to meet the highest standards in hygiene and skin safety. It uses sterile, single-use cartridges and hypoallergenic piercing studs designed to reduce the risk of infection and allergic reaction. The Blomdahl method is only made available to doctors and nurses - you won’t find it anywhere else!
Q: Is the Blomdahl method safe for babies and children?
A: Yes. Blomdahl Medical Ear Piercing was specifically designed with children in mind. As a pediatric nurse, I chose this system because it aligns with my medical standards and experience.
Q: Do you pierce using a piercing gun or a needle?
A: Neither. The Blomdahl system is not a traditional piercing gun or needle. While it may look similar to what you imagine a “piercing gun” to be — a handheld device with a trigger — it’s specifically designed to avoid trauma to the earlobe. It uses sterile, single-use, sharp, medical-grade piercing studs that pierce the ear directly in one quick, smooth motion, making the experience clean, safe, and efficient.
Q: I’ve heard needle piercing is better. Is that true?
A: Needle piercing can be a great option when performed properly, but it's not the only safe method. Needle piercing involves reusable tools that must be sterilized in an autoclave, which can pose a higher risk for infection if strict protocols aren’t followed. It’s also a two-step process -first piercing with a needle, then removing it and threading in the jewelry -which may cause unnecessary discomfort and bleeding.
A clinical study shows that the Blomdahl method does not cause more tissue damage than needle piercing. In fact, it's often better suited for children, as it’s quick, causes minimal discomfort, involves no bleeding, and uses pre-sterilized, disposable tools for each client. Plus, in many cases, both ears can be pierced at the same time, which is a major benefit for young children.
For complex upper cartilage piercings and body piercings, I recommend seeing a professional needle piercer. But for simple earlobe piercings, the Blomdahl method is a safe, effective, and kid-friendly choice.
🌼 The Experience
Q: What are your qualifications?
A: I am a registered pediatric nurse (BSN, RN, and a graduate of NYU Nursing School) with several years of experience in perioperative care and school nursing. I am also professionally trained and certified in the Blomdahl system, and specialize in working with children and families.
Q: How do you support nervous kids?
A: I explain every step of the process clearly to make sure kids feel in control, and only proceed with their consent. This approach fosters empowerment and confidence without pressure, force, or shame. I also support and educate parents so they know what to expect and feel at ease.
Q: Can you pierce both ears at the same time?
A: Yes, I offer this for children ages 3 and up, and typically recommend it for young children who are feeling nervous. We can decide together based on your child’s comfort level and what will make the experience the most positive.
Q: Do you numb the ears before piercing?
A: Over-the-counter numbing creams take 30–60 minutes to become effective, so we do not apply numbing cream during the appointment. Instead, I provide detailed numbing instructions in advance so you can apply it to the earlobes at home before your appointment.
Q: Why would I go to Pierce Lobe and Happiness instead of a body piercing studio, Claire’s, or my pediatrician?
A: Most piercing studio environments are not designed for children. They can be loud, overstimulating, and lack privacy. They may have piercers with minimal training who use low quality earrings to pierce the ears. Though pediatricians offer safe piercing, they typically pierce infrequently and do not specialize in aesthetic placement.
At Pierce Lobe and Happiness, you get the best of all worlds:
A quiet, private studio designed to put kids and parents at ease
Piercings performed by a pediatric Registered Nurse using the Blomdahl medical-grade system
A perfectionist’s eye for symmetrical, aesthetic placement
Timely appointments, in-depth education, and full aftercare support
Convenient location, 5 minutes from Old Orchard Mall in Skokie
And lastly, with Pierce Lobe And Happiness, you are not only getting pierced by a nurse - you’re getting pierced by someone who is passionate and loves what they do.
✨ Jewelry & Aftercare
Q: What kind of earrings do you use?
A: We use Blomdahl medical-grade piercing studs, available in titanium or medical plastic. Both materials are truly hypoallergenic and ideal for sensitive skin. We typically carry 4 piercing stud designs to choose from.
Q: Can I use my own earrings for the piercing?
A: No, for safety and hygiene reasons, we only pierce using the Blomdahl piercing studs. You can choose between titanium or medical plastic studs for your piercing.
Q: How long does healing take?
A: The initial healing period for earlobe piercings is typically 6–8 weeks. You'll receive a complete aftercare kit and detailed guidance for a smooth recovery.
Q: Do you offer follow-up communication?
A: Yes. You can always reach back out with questions during the healing process! My goal is to ensure your piercing is successful in longevity.
📅 Appointments & Pricing
Q: Do you accept walk-ins?
A: No. All piercings are by appointment only to ensure every client receives the focused attention and calm experience they deserve.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Pricing is all-inclusive and covers the piercing procedure, Blomdahl jewelry, aftercare kit, and follow-up support. Visit our website or contact us for current rates.
Q: How can I book?
A: You can start by sending us a message to discuss upcoming availability and scheduling!
We like to connect with each client beforehand to ensure that Pierce Lobe and Happiness will be the right fit for your piercing needs.