Be sure to follow after-care directions to the letter. Consult a physician immediately if you suspect an infection or other medical problem. Think long and hard before having your body pierced. Are you sure you're sure. After you decide, think again.
New Jersey has no state laws regulating body piercing.
Tony Monaco, a coordinator of health projects with the state department of health, says legislation has been pending since 1994, but has yet to be passed. Nevertheless, there are responsible piercers. Bill learned to pierce, he says, first by reading every book he could get his hands on. Since he couldn't find anyone on the East Coast who was doing piercing at that time, he consulted with experienced piercers in California who helped him learn the trade. And he continues to learn.