The Platinum Point Difference: Why Implant-Grade Materials Matter for Your Piercing
Getting a new piercing is an exciting journey into self-expression. But beyond the initial sparkle, ensuring your piercing heals beautifully and safely hinges on one crucial factor: the quality of your jewellery. At Platinum Point, we believe your health and healing are paramount, which is why we exclusively use implant-grade materials for all our initial and long-term piercing jewellery.
You might hear terms like "surgical steel" or "hypoallergenic," but what does "implant-grade" truly mean for your body piercing in New Zealand? Let's delve into the science behind why choosing implant-grade materials from Platinum Point sets you up for the best possible piercing experience.
What Are Implant-Grade Materials?
The term "implant-grade" refers to materials that have been rigorously tested and certified for use inside the human body. These aren't just pretty metals; they are biocompatible, meaning they are designed to exist in harmony with your body, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions, irritation, or complications during the crucial healing period.
The most common and trusted implant-grade materials for body piercing are:
Implant-Grade Titanium (Ti-6AL-4V ELI ASTM F136): This is the gold standard for initial piercings. It's incredibly lightweight, strong, and completely nickel-free. The "ELI" stands for "Extra Low Interstitials," meaning it has a lower concentration of impurities that could cause problems. Titanium is highly corrosion-resistant and non-magnetic, making it ideal for those with metal sensitivities.
Implant-Grade Stainless Steel (316LVM ASTM F138): While often confused with general "surgical steel," true implant-grade stainless steel is specifically formulated for implant use. The "LVM" indicates "Low Vacuum Melt," ensuring purity. It's a durable and polished option, though some individuals with extreme nickel sensitivities may still prefer titanium as a first choice.
Niobium: Similar to titanium in its biocompatibility and nickel-free composition, niobium is another excellent choice. It's often used for those with known metal allergies.
Solid Gold (14k or higher, nickel-free): Not all gold is created equal for piercings. At Platinum Point, we only use solid 14-karat (or higher) gold that is specifically alloyed to be nickel-free and suitable for initial and healed piercings. Lower karat gold or gold with nickel alloys can cause irritation.
Why Do Impurities and Non-Implant Grade Materials Cause Problems?
Using non-implant grade materials can introduce various issues, especially during the delicate healing phase of a new piercing:
Allergic Reactions: Many people are sensitive to nickel, a common allergen found in cheap jewellery. Even small amounts can cause itching, redness, swelling, and rashes.
Corrosion and Leaching: Lower quality metals can corrode or leach metal ions into your tissue over time. This can cause discoloration, prolonged healing, irritation, and even embedment.
Rough Finishes: Cheaper jewellery often has microscopic scratches or porous surfaces that can harbour bacteria, making it difficult for your piercing to heal and increasing the risk of infection.
Poor Polishing: A truly smooth, mirror-like finish is critical to prevent friction and trauma inside the piercing channel. Implant-grade jewellery is polished to an incredibly high standard.
The Platinum Point Difference: Beyond Just Materials
At Platinum Point, our commitment to your safe and beautiful piercing goes far beyond simply stocking implant-grade materials. Here's what makes us different:
Uncompromising Quality Standards: We source our jewellery only from reputable manufacturers who provide mill certificates, guaranteeing that the materials meet the strict ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) or ISO (International Organization for Standardization) implant-grade standards. We don't just say it's implant-grade; we can prove it.
Expert Knowledge: Our piercers are not just skilled artists; they are knowledgeable professionals trained in biocompatibility, metallurgy, and advanced piercing techniques. We can confidently advise you on the best material for your unique body chemistry and piercing location.
Precision Polishing: Every piece of jewellery we use, especially for initial piercings, boasts an incredibly smooth, mirror-like finish. This meticulous polishing reduces friction, minimizes trauma, and promotes a smoother, faster healing process.
Ethical Sourcing: We care about where our materials come from. Our commitment extends to ensuring our jewellery is ethically sourced and produced, aligning with our values and those of our conscious clients.
Long-Term Health and Aesthetic: By starting with and maintaining implant-grade jewellery, you're not just ensuring safe healing; you're investing in the long-term health and aesthetic appeal of your piercing. Your jewellery will retain its lustre and integrity, and your body will thank you.
Invest in Your Healing, Choose Platinum Point
Your piercing is a part of you. Don't compromise on quality or safety. When you choose Platinum Point for your next piercing in Auckland, you're choosing a studio that prioritizes your well-being with every single piece of jewellery. Experience the Platinum Point difference – where expert technique meets the highest standards of material quality.
Ready to start your piercing journey with confidence?
