How to Start a Body Piercing Studio

Teens with parental consent, young adults and adults who want a first piercing, a new one or a jewelry upgrade.

A piercing fee per service, plus jewelry sales, which are often the bigger share. Repeat clients come back for new piercings and jewelry changes.

• Steady hands and attention to detail
• Strict hygiene habits
• Calm, friendly manner with nervous clients
• Knowledge of anatomy and jewelry materials

• Many states or counties require a body art facility permit and a practitioner license or registration, so check with your health department
• Rules on piercing minors (parental consent, ID, banned procedures) differ by state
• Sterilization rules, such as autoclave spore testing and single-use needles, are usually inspected
• General liability and professional liability insurance, and check whether your landlord and zoning allow this use
• Buy implant-grade jewelry from reputable suppliers, since cheap metals cause reactions and complaints
• Fainting, infections and unhappy clients are real risks, so keep clear consent forms and aftercare sheets

Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your premises, fit-out, sterilization equipment and jewelry stock. Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, client volume and how much jewelry you sell.

Many states or counties require a body art facility permit and a practitioner license or registration, so check with your health department. Also check your state's rules on piercing minors, sterilization requirements such as autoclave spore testing, insurance and zoning.

Steady hands, attention to detail and strict hygiene habits matter most, along with a calm, friendly manner with nervous clients. You also need knowledge of anatomy and jewelry materials. Plan on typically 30 hours a week or more.