A 13-year-old can typically get earlobe piercings (second lobes) and some outer ear cartilage piercings (like helix), and sometimes nose or septum piercings, but always requires a parent or guardian present with ID for consent, with laws varying by location. More complex or genital/nipple piercings are generally off-limits until 16 or 18. Reputable piercers are recommended, avoiding piercing guns for cartilage.
Piercings for Minors
13 years of age or older with parental consent and proper identification
Technically - it's assault, as a person under 18 cannot legally agree to the procedure on their own merit. However - there are plenty of kids with piercings (usually ears) - that have had them done with the consent of a parent/guardian.
Most studios set a minimum age of 13 or 14, with parental consent for under 16s. Facial and body piercings: These include nostril, eyebrow, navel, and lip piercings. Many studios require clients to be 16 or over with ID, or younger only with parental consent. Tongue and genital piercings: Strictly 18 and over.
7.1 Anyone under the age of 16 who wants their ear or nose pierced must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who must sign the appropriate consent forms. Any person wishing to receive a licensable treatment will need to provide proof of their age if they look under 25 .
The "3-2 piercing rule" is a popular guideline for creating a balanced ear piercing arrangement, suggesting three piercings on the lobe and two on the upper cartilage for a harmonious, curated look, or applying a 2:3 ratio of piercings to space for overall balance, often pairing small studs with statement pieces for a chic, "undone" style that avoids overcrowding and emphasizes personal anatomy.
In order for a minor to get a piercing, they must have proper parental consent. This means that a parent must be present and must bring a copy of the minor's birth certificate and photo ID for both themselves and the minor. They will also have to fill out and sign paperwork in the shop.
Safest Piercings
Along with the nostrils and belly button, the earlobes are the safest and most common body part to be pierced. The flesh of the earlobe heals well when the area is cleaned regularly and the piercing is done at the proper angle.
What Piercings Are the Least Painful?
Places like Claire's do not have the same level of hygiene practices in place. This means that there are no protocols to ensure clean hands and clean equipment. Things like unsterilized equipment and unwashed hands can lead to a higher risk of infection and other complications.
Cartilage (including nostril) and septum piercings are performed on qualified minors aged 13+. Navel, eyebrow, bridge, and industrial piercings are performed on qualified minors aged 16+. In order to pierce a minor we will need their ID, showing their photo and name, as well as that of the adult signing for them.
Many local authorities set an age limit of 16 years old as a condition of the licence. Most local councils keep registers of approved piercers who have passed hygiene and safety standards and who are regularly inspected by health and safety officers.
One reason your teen may want to get pierced is for self-expression; piercing is a way for them to express their individuality and personality. Getting a piercing can also be a fashion statement.
We are insured to perform Earlobe, Helix (Cartilage), Tragus, Conch, Rook, Daith, Single Forward Helix, Eyebrow, Nostril and Navel piercings on minors that are 13 years of age or older. Minors must have a parent present.
Depending on the person, a tongue piercing can be a 3-4 on a pain scale or 10. Why? Because the tongue is a sensory organ with lots of nerve endings, muscles, and blood vessels and you're sticking a needle through those, Ouch.
Dry nose: With piercing, the airflow changes and dries out the nasal cavities, causing irritation and discomfort. Frequent bleeding: Recurrent and unexplained bleeding, even if not severe. Wheezing: This is one of the most characteristic symptoms. The air passing through the perforation generates a whistling sound.
A nose piercing typically ranks around a 4-7 out of 10 on the pain scale, varying by person and location; nostril piercings are often a quick, sharp pinch (around 4-6/10), while septum piercings can feel intense but brief (around 6-7/10), especially if the cartilage is thick, though it's generally considered manageable and quick to heal.
Gently wash your piercings with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and water at least once a day. Thoroughly rinse your piercings after washing them. Avoid cleaning your piercing with hydrogen peroxide or antibacterial soaps, which can damage your healing skin.
However, even if you're brave and want to do a whole bunch of piercings at once, it's recommended that you don't get more than three at a time so you don't overwhelm your body during the healing process.
Young people are particularly at risk because, without parental consent, minors are denied professional piercing services in virtually all states where legislation has passed. However, they can still obtain the kits and get pierced without their parents' consent or knowledge.
Claire's Store Locator
Our ear piercing specialists are trained to offer several piercing options with an upgraded process for safety and sanitation. Choose from a huge range of studs and hoops for your next piercing!
How much does a nose piercing hurt? Piercings can hurt, depending on the area you're having pierced. Fortunately, the piercing is over quickly! Most of our clients tell us there is little, to no pain and or that it feels like a little pinch or flick.