Why Did I Choose to Become an APP Member ?

A commitment to ethics, transparency, and professional rigor

In the body piercing industry, not everyone works the same way. Techniques vary, hygiene standards vary, and the quality of jewelry can range from the worst to the best.

When I decided to make piercing my profession, I quickly realized that I wanted to go beyond simply practicing. I wanted in-depth training, to offer a safe environment to my clients, and to reach the highest standards in the profession.

It is with this in mind that I chose to become a member of the APP: the Association of Professional Piercers (USA).

What is the APP? APP stands for "Association of Professional Piercers." It is an international non-profit organization founded in 1994 in the United States that works to disseminate essential health and safety information about body piercing to piercers, healthcare professionals, legislators, and the general public. Its goal is to promote high standards of safety and hygiene, and it offers piercing professionals the opportunity to attend an annual conference as well as webinars.

The APP USA conference is held annually in the United States, but there are also opportunities to attend seminars elsewhere in the world through sister organizations such as UKAPP in England or APP Benelux for Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Contrary to what one might think, the APP is neither a school nor an automatic certification: it is a demanding association that only grants its recognition after a thorough verification of compliance with its strict criteria.

Being a member of the APP means committing to:

• Working in an environment that meets the highest standards of sterility and safety;

  
  

• Using only jewelry made from certified biocompatible materials (ASTM F-136 titanium, niobium, solid gold (14 or 18 karat), etc.);

  
  

• Renewing annual training on bloodborne pathogen certificate and maintaining a current first aid certificate;

  
  

• Informing and supporting each client with professionalism, honesty, and a clear, educational approach.

A demanding application process: Becoming a member is not a simple application. A rigorous application must be submitted, including:

• A complete studio audit (video of the studio showcasing the space, particularly the piercing room, verifying safety measures, the layout of equipment to prevent cross-contamination, type of furniture, waste management, etc.);

  
  

• A detailed list of all jewelry used, with proof of compliance with APP criteria; A questionnaire with questions about hygiene protocols, client care, etc.;

  
  

• Required documents such as a first aid certificate, a certificate of training in bloodborne pathogen prevention, and the documents required by the applicant's country of residence to obtain authorization to practice as a body piercer.

Each application is then reviewed by a committee of professionals. This rigorous process ensures that only studios truly compliant with the standards can display this recognition.

Why is this commitment important to me?

From a very young age, I've always strived to give my best, and I've always been very rigorous and serious in my studies and the projects I've undertaken.

When I started learning the art of body piercing, it seemed obvious to me that I would one day fill out the forms to become a member of the APP.

It's an ethical commitment that reflects my desire to practice this profession with respect—respect for the body, for health, and for the trust my clients place in me.

What this means for you, as a client:

When you walk through the door of a studio that is a member of the APP (Association of Professional Piercers), it means that the studio meets all the demanding criteria required by the APP. This ensures that every piece of jewelry offered is body-safe (biocompatible), that every procedure is performed under optimal hygiene and safety conditions, and that we never settle for the bare minimum required by law.

In Belgium, piercing legislation is relatively lenient, which, in my opinion, makes it all the more important to set much higher standards.

So, when you walk through the door of my studio, you can be sure that:

• The jewelry is biocompatible, tested, and suitable for a first piercing;

  
  

• Your piercing is performed in a sterile, safe environment that complies with international best practices;

  
  

• You receive clear, informed advice tailored to your body—without judgment, high-pressure sales tactics, or guesswork.

Being a member of the APP isn't just a badge. It's a foundation upon which I build my practice every day, with respect for bodies, health, and the integrity of this profession.

If you'd like more information about the Association of Professional Piercers, I encourage you to visit their website: www.safepiercing.org

See you soon!

Sélina