National Piercing Day
With a variety of styles and colors, adding a touch of sparkle to your look has never been easier—express yourself with the perfect accessory.
Ever wonder when the tradition of piercing got its start and how to celebrate it?
Well, National Piercing Day is here to give a little attention to this unique body art and show some appreciation for the beauty it provides around the world!
How to Celebrate National Piercing Day
Whether partaking in a new piercing or just enjoying and appreciating the way they look on others, National Piercing Day is a fun day to celebrate with some of these ideas:
Get a Piercing
Depending on family traditions or even cultural origins, piercings may or may not have been a rite of passage growing up.
Some people pierce their children’s ears at a very young age while others prefer to wait until the kids are old enough to make their own decisions. For those who have never gotten a piercing, or for those who want to get a new one, National Piercing Day is the perfect time!
Get those ears pierced for the first time — or the second, or third. Get a nose piercing, eyebrow piercing or even a belly button ring.
Go for a stud or a ring. Whatever the preference, this is a great day to enjoy and celebrate with a new piercing.
Buy New Pierced Jewelry
In honor of this day, many body piercing stores and jewelry shops will offer discounts or sales for their customers. (Remember to buy high quality body jewelry from trusted sources to prevent infection.) Check out a local shop to see what kind of deals they are offering.
And while in the shop, don’t forget to thank the piercing artist and wish them a Happy National Piercing Day!
Check Out Famous People with Piercings
Looking for a bit of inspiration on National Piercing Day? Do a little online image search to see what kind of piercings these folks have:
- Scarlett Johansson — multiple ear and cartilage piercings.
- Jessica Biel — septum piercing that can be easily hidden.
- Zayn Malik — side nose ring and two ear studs.
- Beyoncé — belly button ring.
History of National Piercing Day
While some people might think that body piercing is a trend of self-expression that started somewhere in the 80s or 90s, this tradition actually has a history that can be followed back into ancient times.
Piercing, whether in the ears or other parts of the body, comes with a history that dates back thousands of years. In fact, the oldest evidence of ear piercings from mummified remains were from at least 5,000 years ago.
And nose piercing can be traced back as far as 1500 BC. Cultures such as Native Americans, Alaskans, Indians and Africans have been connected with piercings.
The first National Piercing Day seems to have taken place in 2007 as an online grass roots declaration by a group of people who wanted to celebrate the art of piercing.
Since that time, the day has been observed annually and has grown in popularity each year.
National Piercing Day FAQs
Did pirates really pierce their ears for better eyesight?
A popular myth suggests that pirates pierced their ears, believing it would improve their vision.
In reality, there’s no scientific basis for this belief. Pirates often wore earrings as symbols of their travels or to display wealth.
Some even believed that the precious metals in earrings could prevent seasickness or serve as payment for a proper burial if they died at sea.
What’s the most unusual body part people get pierced?
Beyond common piercings, some individuals opt for unique locations like the uvula (the tissue hanging at the back of the throat) or the Achilles tendon area.
These extreme piercings are rare and often come with increased risks, requiring careful consideration and professional expertise.
How did body piercings influence the counterculture movement of the 1960s?
In the 1960s, body piercings became symbols of rebellion against societal norms.
The counterculture movement embraced piercings as forms of self-expression, challenging traditional views on body modification and personal freedom.
Are there any health benefits associated with ear piercings in traditional medicine?
In Ayurvedic medicine, ear piercings are believed to have health benefits.
Practitioners suggest that piercing specific points can help with ailments like menstrual issues or anxiety, though scientific evidence is limited.
What’s the significance of piercings in Native American Sun Dance ceremonies?
In some Native American cultures, particularly among the Plains tribes, piercings play a role in the Sun Dance ceremony.
Participants undergo chest piercings attached to a central pole, symbolizing a connection to the divine and personal sacrifice.
Who holds the record for the most body piercings?
Elaine Davidson, a Brazilian-born nurse, holds the record for the most body piercings.
As of 2006, she had over 462 piercings, including 192 on her face, showcasing an extraordinary commitment to body modification.
Is it true that some cultures used piercings as rites of passage?
Yes, many cultures have used piercings in rites of passage. For example, certain African tribes perform lip or ear piercings to mark the transition from childhood to adulthood, signifying maturity and social status.
What’s the origin of the term ‘rhino piercing’?
The ‘rhino piercing’ is a vertical nose tip piercing. Its name derives from the Greek word ‘rino,’ meaning nose, rather than any direct association with rhinoceros animals.
Do certain piercings heal faster than others?
Yes, healing times vary by piercing location. For instance, earlobe piercings typically heal faster, often within 6-8 weeks, while cartilage piercings, like those on the upper ear, can take several months to a year to fully heal.
What’s the cultural significance of nose piercings in India?
In India, nose piercings, particularly on the left nostril, are traditional for many women.
This practice is linked to Ayurveda, where the left side of the nose is associated with female reproductive organs, and piercing is believed to ease childbirth and menstruation.
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