Piercing FAQ's

Everything you need to know before your appointment. If your question isn't answered here, we'd be happy to help.

  • Appointments can be booked through our online booking page. Simply select your preferred service, date and time, and we'll take care of the rest. If you're unsure where to begin, we recommend booking a consultation first.

  • Every appointment begins with understanding your ear. We'll assess your anatomy, existing jewellery and personal style before recommending placements and jewellery that feel balanced, intentional and built to last. Once you're happy with your curation, your piercing is performed using professional needle techniques and solid 14kt gold jewellery.

  • To ensure the most comfortable experience, please arrive well rested, hydrated and having eaten beforehand. We also recommend avoiding alcohol prior to your appointment.

  • 12AM currently offers appointments in Johannesburg and Pretoria. All visits are by appointment only.

  • There's no set number. Every ear is different, and we’ll recommend what your anatomy can comfortably heal while preserving the balance of your overall curation. For the best healing results we recommend no more than two piercings per session. 

    We also don’t believe in rushing the process. Building an ear should be something you enjoy over time. Not something you finish in one appointment. Healing properly gives you the opportunity to live with each piece, understand your curation, and make thoughtful additions rather than simply adding more piercings. 

    It also allows you to budget toward the pieces you truly love.

    At 12AM, we’re not interested in simply poking holes, we’re here to help you build an ear you’ll love for years to come.

  • Yes. Whether a piercing has closed, migrated or you'd simply like to improve its placement, we'll assess the area during your consultation and recommend the most suitable approach.

  • Your initial jewellery is fitted with a slightly longer post (8mm) to allow room for swelling during healing. Once the swelling has settled, we'll replace it with a shorter post (6mm) for improved comfort, healing and long-term wear.

  • Appointments may be cancelled or rescheduled with at least 24 hours' notice. Late cancellations or missed appointments may result in your booking fee being forfeited.

  • Mild swelling, tenderness, redness and light discharge are all a normal part of healing. Every person heals differently, and we're always available should you have any concerns throughout the process.

  • Your safety is at the centre of everything we do. We use sterile, single-use needles, solid 14kt gold jewellery and professional techniques that prioritise precision, hygiene and long-term healing.

  • Yes. Age requirements vary depending on the piercing and whether parental or legal guardian consent is required. If you're under 18, please contact us before booking your appointment.

  • As a precaution, we do not perform new piercings during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. We recommend waiting until this period has passed before booking your appointment.

  • Yes. If you'd like to be pierced with your own jewellery, it must be crafted from solid gold and assessed by us beforehand. To ensure it meets our standards for healing, it will also need to be converted into our flat-back system before your appointment.