I'm really hoping I'll be able to get my navel pierced on my birthday (October 4th) and I have some questions concerning it. What is the piercing process and what should I look for when I'm choosing a piercing parlor? I am moderately allergic to some types of metal and I'm worried that it'll get infected if I choose a metal barbell. Are there belly button rings I won't have an allergic reaction to? Also, I have a "parental problem." What do you think is the best way for me to confront my parents about this? How do you think I should go about telling them because they're against piercings. I'm also very afraid they'll say no. I'm 15 right now and I'm going on 16 and I haven't done much of anything wrong- so... they owe me! (lol) Thanks for all the help. <img src="/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

-Keira

Keira,

For jewelry, I'd suggest surgical stainless steel. Be sure to mention your allergy concerns to the piercer.

I can't describe the exact piercing process as each piercer may operate a little differently. They generally mark the area, put a forcep on the area as a guide and then push a slant tip needle though to make the piercing.

As far as your parental issues, I can't help you with that. I do suggest a discussion versus a confrontation. If you are under 18, you will not be able to get pierced without them coming along and signing paperwork. If you do an end-run around them, they then can sue the piercer and anyone who may have pretended to be your legal guardian.

Good luck,
Rae

I am very allergic to certain metals - especially anything containing nickel, and surgical steel even irritates my ear lobes after a little while. However, high-grade surgical steel has been just fine with my navel piercing. I've had it for years now and I haven't had even one allergic reaction episode.

Good luck with the folks! And if they don't consent, you know what you're doing for your 18th birthday! <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Thanks Rae and Chris for all the information! That was a BIG help and it lifted tons of weight off my shoulders. I was afraid if I got my navel pierced, it would automatically get infected because I am partially metal intolerant. (lol) Anyways, my parents and I made an appointment for October 1st. *crosses fingers* <img src="/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Researching a few more things, some folks out there seem to suggest titanium or niobium as being options for people with metal sensitivities to try.

Anyone out there have any experience with this? I'd appreciate hearing about it....

this is an old post but i'll throw my 2 cents in late.my boyfriend is allergic to metal.even surgical steel breaks him out.titanium works very well.no problems.just rubbing something metal causes very bad reactions.before he got a piercing we bought a titanium ring he wore it for 1 month to be sure.i mean who wants to get a piercing and have a bad reaction to it?