Piercings by age: from what age can you get which piercing?
You've finally decided to get a piercing, exciting! But is that even allowed at your age ? Or are you a parent wondering what piercings your child can get? In this blog post, we'll explain in detail the rules for piercing minors. So you'll know exactly what to expect, whether you're 13 or 17, or the parent of someone who is.
Legal rules for piercings on minors
In the Netherlands, clear regulations exist for piercing young people under 18. These regulations are in place to protect the health of young people and to ensure they fully understand what a piercing entails. As a certified piercing studio, All Perfectly Pierced also strictly adheres to these regulations.
All Perfectly Pierced: earlobe piercing in children
Piercing ages
Under 12 years: Piercing is not legally permitted , with the exception of earlobes. These may be pierced, but only with the permission of a parent or guardian.
12 to 15 years: In this age group, you are permitted to get certain piercings, but only with written permission and the presence of a parent or guardian . Nipple or genital piercings are always prohibited for minors.
16 and 17 years: From the age of 16, you can get a piercing yourself, without parental permission. There's an exception here too: intimate piercings remain prohibited until you're 18.
Important: Every professional piercing shop will ask for identification. Don't forget to bring your ID!
Which piercing are you allowed to get and when?
Below we clearly list which piercings you can and cannot get at what age:
Age
Earlobe
Crack- leg
Nose
Navel
Tongue
Nipple / Genital
<12
✔️ (with permission)
❌
❌
❌
❌
❌
12-15
✔️ (of parent)
✔️ (with parent)
✔️ (with parent)
✔️ (with parent)
✔️ (with parent)
❌
16-17
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
❌
18+
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
Please note: This table provides general guidelines based on Dutch law. A professional piercing studio like All Perfectly Pierced adheres strictly to these guidelines.
Why are there age limits?
Piercing is not without risks. Think of infections, scarring, or a lengthy healing process. Younger people are also still developing, both physically and mentally. That's why we believe it's important that you fully understand what a piercing entails and that you can provide the proper care during the healing process.
At All Perfectly Pierced, we take the time to explain everything: from the pain and aftercare to the expected healing time. This way, we make an informed decision together.
Getting a piercing? Here's what you need if you're a minor:
A valid ID
Your parent/guardian must come with you to the appointment
Written permission from a parent or guardian (if under 15 years of age)
A little courage and a lot of enthusiasm for your new look 😉
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
From what age can you get a piercing?
In the Netherlands, you can get a piercing yourself from the age of 16, with the exception of genital and nipple piercings. If you are under 15, you need written permission and the presence of a parent or guardian.
Can you get a helix piercing at 14?
Yes, but only if your parent or guardian is present and has given written permission. Helix piercings are considered cartilage piercings, and they may be done on 12- to 15-year-olds under adult supervision.
Why do you need to bring ID to a piercing appointment?
A professional piercing studio is legally required to verify your age. Therefore, you must always bring valid ID. The studio is not permitted to perform a piercing without ID.
Can I, as a parent, come to the piercing studio with my child?
Yes, please! If your child is under 15, your presence is required. At All Perfectly Pierced, we take the time to explain everything calmly and clearly so you both leave the studio feeling confident.
Want to know more about piercings and care?
Are you curious about how to best care for your (new) piercing, which jewelry is most suitable or how we work at All Perfectly Pierced? Then take a look at our other blogs and expand your knowledge about everything related to piercings: 👉 View all blogs from All Perfectly Pierced
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Raquel Huijgen van Weenen
About the author: Raquel Huijgen van Weenen is the owner of All Perfectly Pierced and a passionate piercing expert with years of experience in piercing and styling. With an eye for detail, safety, and personalized service, she helps clients every day find a piercing that not only looks beautiful but also suits them. Through her blog, Raquel shares her knowledge on piercing care, trends, and everything you need to know before getting a piercing.
Follow her tips for a stylish, responsible and above all perfectly pierced look.