Update, June 2026: We now include implant-grade titanium starter jewelry in our piercing prices. That's different from what this post warns about — here's the difference → Is jewelry included in the service price?
The Association of Professional Piercers (APP) is an organization that started in 1994 with the goal of improving the piercing community. It's a great organization that has helped create and set modern piercing standards. Learn more at safepiercing.org.
How does the APP certify its members?
Quite simply, it doesn't. The APP allows people to become members, but it doesn't certify anyone or anything. Some local shops claim to be “APP certified” or an “APP studio” — both inaccurate and, frankly, a manipulative marketing technique. Membership costs an initial $100–$150 plus $50–$100 a year. Only individual piercers can join (not studios). The application asks how you pierce, what instruments you use, and how you sterilize, and requires a studio video and receipts for quality jewelry. A committee reviews it in about 60 days.
Why isn't this always trustworthy when choosing a piercer?
This section is the opinion of someone who works in the industry and knows how it works behind the scenes. I've been an APP member for years and not once has anyone from the APP set foot in my studio to verify what I told them. The screening relies entirely on the integrity of applicants telling the truth, with no verification. If a studio is nasty 364 days a year but cleaned for the day they film their video, what does that represent? I've overheard piercers borrowing an autoclave and supplies just to film their membership video. I don't trust it one bit.
Why should I care?
A piercing can be a serious matter. It's handled differently by health departments than tattoos because someone is making a wound through parts of your body. Science has shown how important sterility is and how easily things can go wrong. A piercing needs to be taken seriously.
So how do I make sure I'm getting someone quality?
Do your due diligence. Check out the studio beforehand and compare it to somewhere else. Ask to see redacted receipts from reputable jewelry companies. Ask to see their autoclave logs. Ask about their experience and sterilization procedures. Have them show you the studio. Ask about the quality of tools they use. Educate yourself. Ninety percent of the time, the cheaper a piercer is, the more likely you're not getting the best of something. I'd rather pay $20 more to ensure single-use sterile everything, top-of-the-line needles, and the safety of my health — every single time.