Dermals

Dermal Anchors

The latest 'buzz' in the body modification world are these dermal anchors - much, much smaller than their older sibling the transdermal implant, they are easily fitted (by a competent piercer), using nothing more than a normal piercing needle or dermal punch.

The skilled hands of our piercer can turn these...

...into these...


(The piercings above were performed at Hype)

The dermal anchoring technique has evolved from more advanced procedures such as transdermal implants, pocketing, and surface piercings to provide a more impressive looking single-point piercing. However the results are more stable, less invasive, the dermal anchor can be used in places where standard surface piercings would be rejected by the body, and will often heal alot quicker than even most 'standard' piercings - on average only one month.

Dermal anchors are best suited to areas of skin that are well sheltered and do not receive constant irritation from clothing but they will generally heal in *almost any* area if you follow the correct aftercare regime - such as the face, neck, arms, wrists, legs, feet, hands etc...

How much do they cost?

Your first dermal anchor will cost £40, but for each consecutive anchor done in the same session the price is £30 each - so if you've a design consisting of several anchors in mind you can save lots of your hard earned cash by having them done at the same time!

Dermal Anchor Aftercare

What will I need in order for my new anchor to heal properly?

Since piercings are essentially an open wound, it's important to treat them right so that they heal well - a mild anti-bacterial soap preferably non-coloured, non-wax based, and non-perfumed to minimize the chances of irritating the pierced area.

In addition to a safe soap, sea salt should be used for regular salt-water soaks of the area.

How often do I need to clean the piercing/anchor with the soap?

You need to clean your piercing/anchor site three times daily for the initial healing time - but do not clean more than this as this can cause irritation and make the site unnecessarily tender.

To clean the piercing simply take your mild soap, build up a lather on clean hands and carefully clean around the site, easing off any crust with your fingers. Rinse with clean water and allow to air dry.

How often should I perform the salt water soaks and what do I do?

Mild salt water soaks once or twice a week are great for the healing process and will stimulate circulation of the area to facilitate the healing process - dissolve a pinch (1/4teaspoon) of salt into one cup (8oz) of warm water and soak over the area for 15 mins. Rinse with clean water and allow it air dry, and Bob's your uncle.

What should I expect to see in the healing area?

Bruising, bleeding, discolouration and/or swelling are perfectly normal - tenderness or slight discomfort during the first few days is likewise to be expected. If after a few weeks you don't feel the piercing is healing properly you can return to the shop for advice.

Anything else I should know?

Only the obvious - always wash you hands before touching your piercing/anchor, and do not twist or play with it.

Each night before bed (or when covering with tight clothing) remember to tape the anchor in place until the healing is complete.