Q: What types of piercings do you offer?

Our brand is focused on the milestone of an ear piercing , so we do not pierce anywhere on the body beyond the ears. At this time, we only pierce and change jewelry for the outer ear, including the lobe, upper lobe, mid helix, helix, forward helix, flat, conch, and tragus. Placement and age requirements may vary slightly by state and studio location. Lobe piercings are available starting at 2 months old, with a DTaP vaccine. Piercings beyond the lobes are available for customers 12 and up. We do not offer nose piercings, daith, rook, or industrial placements.

Question 1

What makes piercing with Rowan safe?

Accepted Answer

We put safety first, with ear piercings performed exclusively by a licensed nurse and hypoallergenic earrings made from premium, nickel-free materials. Rowan nurses have extensive experience creating a stress-free environment, are experts in using PPE and maintaining sterility, and always put their clients first. Rowan nurses offer piercings using a gentle, hand-pressured device with pre-sterilized 14k gold or medical-grade stainless steel earrings to pierce. We also offer piercings performed with a hollow needle.

The hand-pressured device and the hollow needle are safe and accurate when in the hands of a trained professional. Our piercing jewelry has safety backs and long posts to ensure sufficient airflow and optimal healing. We never use piercing guns, which are spring-loaded and can damage the ear tissue.

Learn more about Rowan's nurse-led clinical piercing experience in this blog post: Why Rowan?

Question 2

How do I book a piercing appointment?

Accepted Answer

Booking is easy! While we do accept walk-ins, appointments are always encouraged! You can head to our Piercing Services page, choose your service and location, and pick a time that works for you. We'll send you an appointment confirmation and reminders to the email address you used.

You don't need to bring anything to your appointment except your ID if you're over 18. We will ask for the parent/guardian's ID for minor appointments. Please note that requirements vary by state, and some locations may ask for additional documentation depending on local regulations.

If you're booking for a minor, a parent or legal guardian must be present at the appointment with a valid ID and any required documents. We’ll guide you through those steps when booking!

For group bookings (like bestie piercings or parties), we recommend booking back-to-back appointments or contacting the studio directly for help.

Question 3

Contact the Nurse Helpline

Accepted Answer

Concerned about the healing process? Please follow us on Instagram @heyrowan and DM our Nurse Helpline with any questions, or email nursehelpline@heyrowan.com, with clear and well-lit photos of both the front and back of the piercing for our Rowan Nurses to review. Please include your full name, email address, and studio location visited. We will be sure to respond within 24 hours.

If you're local to a Rowan studio, please stop by during regular business hours for a complimentary in-person evaluation with a Rowan Nurse!

Our virtual Nurse Helpline is only available for Rowan piercing customers. If you have concerns with a non-Rowan piercing, you can visit your local Rowan studio for an in-person evaluation. During this appointment, your Rowan nurse can assess the ear/piercing and help determine the best next steps. The fee for this appointment will be $15. Please note that we can only offer evaluations for placements that we also pierce at Rowan Studios.

Question 4

What is hypoallergenic jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Hypoallergenic jewelry is made to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. If you’ve ever experienced redness, itching, swelling, or rashes from jewelry, you may have a metal allergy and should stick to nickel-free options. Even without known allergies, it’s best to avoid materials like nickel, brass, or zinc, as they can irritate the skin and aren’t body-safe.

At Rowan, all of our online and in-studio earrings are made with completely nickel-free precious metals. We offer Sterling Silver, Gold over Sterling Silver, Titanium (in-studio), and 14K Gold. We melt down and chemically test the alloys used in every piece to ensure our earrings meet hypoallergenic standards.

Question 5

Do you offer a financing option?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Get it now, and pay later with Shop Pay! For orders over $50.00, select installments at checkout to split your purchase into 4 interest-free payments. For more information and frequently asked questions, please visit the Shop Pay website.

Question 6

What is Rowan's Holiday return and exchange policy?

Accepted Answer

For online and in-store purchases made from 11/1/2024 through 12/31/2024, Rowan will accept all returns and offer free exchanges on unused and unworn items until 1/31/2025.

Items marked as final sale and piercing studs are not eligible for return. Piercing fees and shipping fees are non-refundable.

Items purchased in-store cannot be returned through our online portal and must be returned or exchanged at a Rowan studio in person.

For returns, you will pay a $5 shipping fee to return your item(s) to us. We will issue your refund once the items have been dropped off and scanned by the carrier.

For exchanges, you’ll receive a pre-paid return label and the replacement item will be sent as soon as we’ve received notice that your original parcel is scanned as ‘In Transit’ by the carrier.

If you received less-than-perfect merchandise or have any quality concerns with your new Rowan item(s), please send a photo to us at support@heyrowan.com, and our team will be happy to make it right!

If your online item is eligible for a return or exchange and you’d like to begin that process, you can click this link here. Eligible items may be returned to your nearest Rowan studio by 1/31/2025.

Question 7

Do you use a piercing gun?

Accepted Answer

Rowan offers two safe piercing options: a hand-pressured device (never a gun!) or a hollow needle. Your best choice may depend on age, piercing placement, earring preference, or budget!

The device uses a Rowan Nurse's hand pressure (and complete control) to safely guide, place, and pierce. This instrument holds a sterilized single-use cartridge containing the sterile starter stud earrings that pierce the ear. This is the only option for children under 5 years old. Unlike piercing guns, which use spring-loaded mechanisms to pierce forcefully, a hand-pressurized instrument allows for gentle and direct control with every piercing.

We also offer piercings with a hollow needle. Hollow needles are the only piercing option for parts of the ear other than the outer perimeter. Lobe piercings are available for ages 5 and up, and cartilage piercings are available for ages 12 and up.

Needle placement availability may vary by studio.

Question 8

How should I prepare for my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Getting ready is simple! Book your appointment, complete the waiver beforehand, and check out our blog post, How to Prepare for Getting Your Ears Pierced, for helpful tips and what to expect.

You don't need to bring anything to your appointment except your ID if you're over 18. We will ask for the parent/guardian's ID for minor appointments. Please note that requirements vary by state, and some locations may ask for additional documentation depending on local regulations.

You'll be able to choose your earrings when you arrive for your appointment. Inventory is not guaranteed, so it's a good idea to pick a few favorites ahead of time.

We only accept credit, debit, and Rowan gift cards for payment. Cash is not accepted at most locations.

Don’t worry, our expert nurses will guide you through every step with care and comfort!

Question 9

How do I care for my new device piercing?

Accepted Answer

Here is the aftercare regimen recommended by our licensed nurses for Rowan device piercings.

Always wash your hands - Limit touching your ears only when cleaning. Wash your hands before touching your earrings.
Spray your piercing - Use our aftercare solution 2-3 times a day, front and back while your piercing is healing. For lobe piercings only, rotate earring 1x after spraying. New piercings can take up to one year to fully heal.
Leave space - There should be space between your ear and the front and back of the jewelry. If there’s none, return to the studio for an evaluation.
Disinfect - Clean anything that goes in, on, or around your ears (i.e., earbuds, headphones, cell phones, and glasses).
Rinse and repeat - Rinse your piercing in the shower when using hair products
Hypoallergenic earrings only - Wear consistently for one year to prevent your piercing from closing. Shop hypoallergenic earrings at heyrowan.com
Come back in 21 days - Receive a complimentary check-in with our nurses; they will let you know when your earrings are ready to be changed.

A list of things to avoid:

No touching, twisting, or rotating for cartilage piercings only.
No sleeping on your new piercing without a Piercing Pillow.
No rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean your piercing.
No soaps, creams, or ointments to be used on your healing piercing.
No swimming in lakes or rivers for 2 weeks
No earrings containing nickel. Premium hypoallergenic earrings only!
No heavy earrings.

If you need more help, please follow us on Instagram @heyrowan and DM our Nurse Helpline. We’ll respond within 24 hours!

Question 10

How do I purchase a Rowan gift card?

Accepted Answer

We offer digital gift cards online in pre-set amounts, and physical gift cards—available in any amount—can be purchased in studios only.

Gift cards can be used towards an in-store piercing experience or an online purchase.

Please click here for our digital gift card options. Check the “I want to send this as a gift” option if you want to send this as a gift. Then, before adding the digital gift card to your cart, you’ll be prompted to enter the recipient’s name, email address, gift message, and the date you’d like it to arrive.

Please note that we do not ship physical gift cards. All gift card purchases are final sale.

Question 11

What is Rowan's return and exchange policy?

Accepted Answer

Rowan accepts returns and offers free exchanges on unused and unworn items within 30 days of the delivery date of your item(s). Items marked as final sale and piercing studs are not eligible for return. Piercing fees and shipping fees are non-refundable.

Items purchased in-store cannot be returned through our online portal and must be returned or exchanged in person at a Rowan studio.

For online returns, you will pay a $5 shipping fee to return your item(s) to our warehouse. Once the items have been dropped off and scanned by the carrier, we will issue a refund to your original payment method.

For online exchanges, you’ll receive a pre-paid return label, and the replacement item will be sent as soon as we receive notice that the carrier has scanned your original parcel as ‘In Transit’.

If you received less-than-perfect merchandise or have any quality concerns with your new Rowan item(s), please send a photo to us at support@heyrowan.com, and our team will be happy to make it right!

If your online item is eligible for a return or exchange, you can begin the return & exchange process here. Eligible items may be returned to your nearest Rowan studio within 30 days of delivery.

Question 12

What metals do you use?

Accepted Answer

We’re committed to using high-quality, hypoallergenic materials that are safe for sensitive ears and support proper healing. Here’s a breakdown of the metals used in our piercing studs:

For Piercing Studs

Device Piercing Studs (used with our hand-pressurized device):

Stainless Steel
24k Gold over Stainless Steel
14k Solid Yellow or White Gold

These materials are carefully selected to be safe and gentle during the healing process.

Flat Back Studs (used for needle piercings):

14k Solid Gold Fronts with a Stainless Steel Pin and Titanium Flat Back Post
Select styles also feature Titanium Fronts

We only pierce with titanium flat backs because titanium is nickel-free, lightweight, and highly biocompatible—ideal for minimizing irritation and supporting safe healing.

Note: We do not pierce with 14k gold posts, as they can be softer and less stable during healing. You can, however, upgrade to 14k gold posts at your downsizing appointment for $20 per post after your initial healing period.

For Non-Piercing Jewelry

Our everyday earring styles (perfect for healed piercings) come in a variety of elevated materials, including:

Sterling Silver
14k Gold over Sterling Silver
24k Gold over Titanium
Solid 14k Gold

These pieces are great for sensitive ears and are designed to mix, match, and stack with your piercing studs for a custom look you’ll love.

Question 13

What types of piercings do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Our brand is focused on the milestone of an ear piercing, so we do not pierce anywhere on the body beyond the ears.

At this time, we only pierce and change jewelry for the outer ear, including the lobe, upper lobe, mid helix, helix, forward helix, flat, conch, and tragus. Placement and age requirements may vary slightly by state and studio location.

Lobe piercings are available starting at 2 months old, with a DTaP vaccine. Piercings beyond the lobes are available for customers 12 and up.

We do not offer nose piercings, daith, rook, or industrial placements.

Question 14

How much is a piercing?

Accepted Answer

You'll pay a piercing fee plus the cost of your preferred jewelry. We have something to accommodate every budget!

Piercing jewelry starts at $50. You can find our piercing jewelry lookbook here!

For Device piercings:

One piercing (individual hole): $35 + Cost of Piercing Studs (sold in pairs)

Two piercings (two holes): $50 + Cost of Piercing Studs (sold in pairs)

For Needle piercings:

$35 + Cost of Piercing Studs (sold individually)

If needed for your needle piercing, downsizing your post costs $25 per piercing with a titanium post and $45 per piercing with a 14k Gold post.

We only accept credit, debit, and Rowan gift cards for payment. Cash is not accepted at most locations.

Question 15

What is Sterling Silver?

Accepted Answer

Sterling Silver is a hypoallergenic precious metal that contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. This makes it more durable than fine silver and the standard for silver jewelry. Although this metal is sensitive to oxygen and water and may oxidize, the earrings can be easily cleaned to their original shiny state with a sterling silver cleaning wipe!

Question 16

Can I return or exchange a gift?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Rowan accepts returns and exchanges on gifts. Returns will be issued in the form of Rowan store credit only.

Question 17

How do I redeem a digital Rowan gift card?

Accepted Answer

Redeeming your Rowan gift card is easy! First, visit our website and shop for all of your favorite styles. You can check out once you've added your selections to your cart.

If you're using a computer, on the right-hand side of the checkout page, you'll see a box for 'Discount code or gift card' - this is where you'll want to add your unique gift card number. If any remaining amount is due, you can add your payment information by clicking 'Continue to payment' on the bottom left side of the page.

If you're using a phone or tablet, you will see "Show order summary" at the top of the checkout screen. Click the down arrow to view the box for 'Discount code or gift card' and click the right arrow to apply. If any remaining amount is due, you can add your payment information by scrolling down to the bottom of the page.

Are you thinking of a new piercing or prefer to browse our jewelry in person? That's not a problem! Digital and physical Rowan gift cards are redeemable in studios for piercing services and jewelry!

Question 18

How do I care for my new needle piercing?

Accepted Answer

Here is the aftercare regimen recommended by our licensed nurses for Rowan needle piercings.

Always wash your hands -Llimit touching your ears only when cleaning. Wash your hands before touching your earrings.
Spray your piercing - Use our aftercare solution 2-3 times a day, front and back while your piercing is healing.
Leave space - There should be space between your ear and the front and back of the jewelry. If there’s none, return to the studio for an evaluation.
Disinfect - Clean anything that goes in, on, or around your ears (i.e., earbuds, headphones, cell phones, and glasses).
Rinse and repeat - Rinse your piercing in the shower when using hair products
Hypoallergenic earrings only - Wear consistently for one year to prevent your piercing from closing. Shop hypoallergenic earrings at heyrowan.com
Come back in 30 days - Check-in with our nurses and they'll let you know if your post needs to be downsized.
For more information about downsizing, check out this helpful blog post: Post Downsizing 101

A list of things to avoid:

No touching, twisting, or rotating
No sleeping on your new piercing without a Piercing Pillow.
No rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean your piercing.
No soaps, creams, or ointments to be used on your healing piercing.
No swimming in lakes or rivers for 2 weeks
No earrings containing nickel. Premium hypoallergenic earrings only!
No heavy earrings.

If you need more help, please follow us on Instagram @heyrowan and DM our Nurse Helpline. We’ll respond within 24 hours!

Question 19

How do I change my device piercing studs?

Accepted Answer

Changing your earrings for the first time may seem intimidating, but it’s a quick and painless process!

Steps for Removing Device Piercing Jewelry:

Your device piercing studs will have a traditional butterfly or a bell-back safety backing.
Before removing your earrings, clean around the piercing and earrings with a gentle cleanser, like our Advanced Aftercare Spray.
Gently rotate the earring a few times to loosen it.
Hold the front of the earring with one hand and the earring back with the other.
Slowly and gently pull the front of the earring forward while supporting the backing.
That’s it! Repeat on the other side.

Feeling resistance when removing your earrings is expected, so you may need to apply steady pressure. After you remove your original piercing earrings, please cleanse the area again before inserting new hypoallergenic jewelry.

If you still have issues changing your Rowan piercing studs, you can stop by any Rowan studio, where a Rowan Nurse can assist you.

Question 20

Can both ears be pierced simultaneously?

Accepted Answer

Many studios can accommodate simultaneous piercings when multiple nurses are on shift. Since nurse schedules can vary, we recommend contacting your preferred studio directly to confirm availability and coordinate your appointment.

Question 21

What is Gold over Sterling Silver?

Accepted Answer

Gold over Sterling Silver is made by applying a thin layer of 14k Gold over a Sterling Silver base. Though it looks similar to 14k Gold, it is more affordable and durable. With proper care, Gold over Sterling Silver jewelry will uphold its plating for years to come. Keep your Gold over Sterling Silver jewelry dry and gently wipe with a dry cloth if necessary.

Question 22

How much does shipping cost?

Accepted Answer

For orders of $150 or more, standard shipping is free!

For orders under $150, standard shipping is $5.00

Standard (7-10 business days) via DHL/USPS: $5.00

Ground (3-5 business days) via DHL/USPS: $9.00

Express (3 business days) via FedEx: $30.00

Question 23

Can I return an in-store purchase online?

Accepted Answer

No. Unfortunately, our online return portal cannot accommodate the return of an in-store purchase.

Rowan accepts returns and offers exchanges of unused and unworn jewelry within 30 days of purchase. Items marked as final sale and piercing studs are not eligible for return. Piercing fees and shipping fees are non-refundable.

Eligible in-store purchases may be returned to your nearest Rowan studio within 30 days of receipt.

Question 24

Do you accept walk-ins?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do accept walk-ins. However, our schedules can fill up quickly, so we recommend booking an appointment to secure your preferred time and complete the waiver before your visit.

Question 25

What piercing studs can I choose from?

Accepted Answer

We have a fun variety of piercing earrings to choose from!

Here is our lookbook for needle piercings (sold individually), and here is our lookbook for device piercings (sold in pairs).

You don't need to bring anything with you! At your appointment time, our nurses will help you select the best jewelry for your preferred placement. Our piercing jewelry also varies by location, so styles are not guaranteed.

We do not pierce with hoops and cannot use jewelry the customer provides.

Question 26

What happens if I change my mind while in the piercing chair?

Accepted Answer

No pressure at all—your comfort is our top priority! If you decide not to go through with the piercing while in the chair, that’s okay.

You will not be charged a piercing fee if you don't receive any piercings. However, you will be charged for device jewelry if the nurse has already removed it from the sterile cartridge.

If you or your child receives one piercing and decides not to go through with the other, you will be charged for one piercing fee and the jewelry opened during your service.

Keep in mind that device jewelry is only sold as a pair, and needle jewelry is sold individually. Piercing studs that leave the studio cannot be used for a future piercing.

Question 27

Where does Rowan ship?

Accepted Answer

We currently ship within the United States only. If you’re in Alaska, Hawaii, or a U.S. territory, please note that delivery via Standard USPS Shipping may take up to four weeks.

We do not ship internationally.

Question 28

Can I return an online purchase in-store?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Rowan accepts returns and offers exchanges of unused and unworn jewelry within 30 days of purchase. Items marked as final sale and piercing studs are not eligible for return. Piercing fees and shipping fees are non-refundable.

Please bring your order invoice or have your order number and email address information available for the store team during your visit.

Question 29

How do I change my needle piercing flat back studs?

Accepted Answer

Changing your earrings for the first time may seem intimidating, but it’s a quick and painless process!

Steps for Removing a Tension Flat Back Earring:

Your needle-piercing flat back stud is secured by tension, and the pin has a slight bend to hold it in place.

Hold the flat back firmly with one hand while gripping the front pin (stud) with the other hand.

Keep a firm hold on the back and gently twist while pulling the front pin forward.

Once the front pin is removed, you can carefully slide out the backing from the back of your ear.

Feeling resistance when removing your earrings is expected, so you may need to apply steady pressure. After you remove your original piercing earrings, please cleanse the area again before inserting new hypoallergenic jewelry.

Steps for Inserting a Tension Flat Back Earring:

Insert the new stud (pin) halfway into the post.

Lightly bend the pin by pressing it against the backing. A greater bend will create a tighter fit.

Insert the flat back post into your piercing from the back of your ear.

Push the pin into the post until it is securely in place.

If you still have issues changing your Rowan piercing studs, you can stop by any Rowan studio, where a Rowan Nurse can assist you.

Question 30

What is the difference between genuine and lab-grown diamonds?

Accepted Answer

Genuine Diamonds

A genuine diamond is a naturally occurring crystal made of pure carbon that formed deep within the Earth under extreme pressure and heat over millions of years.

Genuine diamonds are evaluated by the Four C’s:

Cut: The precision and quality of how the diamond is shaped, which determines its sparkle and brilliance

Color: The best diamonds are colorless, while lower grades show hints of yellow or brown

Clarity: The presence or absence of internal flaws and surface blemishes

Carat: Unit of weight. Affects value, but isn’t necessarily related to quality.

Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds.

For the same price, a lab-grown diamond will be larger or higher quality than a mined diamond. They are conflict-free by nature. They are produced above ground in a laboratory, noted to be mined from the earth.

Our suppliers stand behind the certification of our genuine diamonds.

Question 31

Do you pierce babies?

Accepted Answer

At Rowan, we pierce all ages! We require one DTaP vaccine (administered at 2 months old) for ear piercings for children 5 and under. A parent or guardian must be present for any minor under 18. You can book your appointment and find additional details on our website.

For children under 5, we use our hand-pressurized device for piercings, and we do not use hollow needles for this age group.

To have all your questions answered, check out our Piercing FAQs for Children and Anyone Under the Age of 18 and our Infant Piercing 101 blogs.

Question 32

What is normal during the healing process?

Accepted Answer

A new piercing is, in essence, a healing wound. Everyone’s body responds differently based on their immune system and how closely aftercare instructions are followed.

Typical Symptoms for a New Piercing:

Tenderness & Sensitivity: Mild soreness for a few days is typical.
Swelling: Some swelling, especially in the first few days, is common.
Redness: Light redness around the piercing should fade over time.
Bleeding or Oozing: Small amounts of blood or clear fluid may appear in the first 24-48 hours.
Crusting: Small crusts of dried lymph fluid or blood can form, which is normal.
Sensitivity to Touch or Temperature: Temporary sensitivity is expected, especially in the initial stages.
Slight Throbbing or Pulsing: A mild throbbing can occur as the body heals.

To support proper healing, here are a few important care reminders:

If you experience excessive swelling or discharge, fever, an area warm to the touch, extreme pain, or any symptoms that don't improve over time, we recommend you contact your primary health provider as soon as possible.

If you need more help, please follow us on Instagram @heyrowan and DM our Nurse Helpline or stop by any Rowan studio during regular business hours for a complimentary nurse evaluation. (No appointment is needed.)

Question 33

I'm running late for my appointment!

Accepted Answer

We pride ourselves on running on time so that every customer can enjoy a safe and fun piercing experience.

Running late? If you plan on being more than 10 minutes late to your appointment, we recommend rescheduling to ensure that the Rowan Nurse can provide you with the perfect Rowan piercing experience. If you still stop in around your scheduled time, we’ll do our best to fit you in as soon as we can!

Question 34

My earring backs are loose. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

Pro Tip! Squeeze in the sides of the butterfly backings! Remove them from the post and pinch the two loops firmly together, then slide the butterfly backing back onto the post. This should help provide a tighter fit and keep them more secure. (Earring backs should always be worn towards the end of the post, not up close against the back of the ear, as this can cause irritation.)

We also carry a variety pack of four different styles of earring backings, which are available for purchase. Just like our earrings, these backings are hypoallergenic and nickel-free! You may find the link to purchase them here.

Question 35

How long will it take to receive my order?

Accepted Answer

Orders typically ship within 1–2 business days from the date of purchase. Once shipped, you can expect delivery within 7–10 business days via Standard USPS or DHL Shipping.

You’ll receive a confirmation email with tracking details when your order leaves our warehouse!

Question 36

Can I exchange or return my Rowan gift card?

Accepted Answer

No. Rowan gift cards are final sale and may not be returned or exchanged online or in-store.

Question 37

Can I bring my own earrings?

Accepted Answer

No. For safety and hygiene reasons, Rowan Nurses can only pierce with our specially designed, pre-sterilized piercing earrings. We cannot use earrings provided by customers or reuse previously purchased Rowan earrings for new piercings. Our piercing earrings come in sterile packaging and are made to be compatible with our hand-pressurized device and hollow needles, ensuring the safest and most comfortable experience possible.

Piercings take up to a year to fully heal, and wearing Rowan’s hypoallergenic earrings during this time is key to a safe healing journey. If you're unsure when to switch earrings, check out our Piercing 101 blog or visit one of our studios for a nurse evaluation.

For more information about our piercing jewelry, check out this helpful blog post: What’s the Deal with Piercing Earrings?

Question 38

How long are the earring posts?

Accepted Answer

All of our earrings are designed with extra-long posts that are 10.5mm, which is slightly longer than 1cm.

Question 39

My order says delivered, but I have not received it.

Accepted Answer

Shipping carriers will often prematurely mark boxes as "delivered" even though they have not yet been delivered... we understand the frustration this causes!

Please give the carrier an additional 48 hours to deliver your box. If you have still not received the box, please email us at support@heyrowan.com, and we will work with you to remedy the situation.

Question 40

There’s a problem with a piece of jewelry I purchased.

Accepted Answer

If you received less-than-perfect merchandise or have any quality concerns with your new Rowan item(s) within 30 days of purchase, please send us a clear photo or video at support@heyrowan.com for further assistance.

Question 41

I need to reschedule or cancel my appointment.

Accepted Answer

No problem! You can reschedule or cancel your appointment directly through the link in your appointment confirmation email.

You can also reach out to the studio directly if you need help or prefer to speak with someone. There’s no penalty for canceling, but we appreciate the heads up so we can offer the spot to another customer.

Question 42

How many piercings can I get at once?

Accepted Answer

To ensure a safe and comfortable experience, we limit the number of piercings to four per visit. This includes a maximum of three piercings per ear and no more than two piercings on the upper outer perimeter of the ear.

If you want to add more piercings, we recommend waiting at least 2 weeks to allow proper healing before returning for additional piercings.

Please book back-to-back appointment slots if you’d like to get more than two piercings done in one visit. This will give our Rowan Nurse enough time to complete the process safely and thoroughly.

Question 43

Why did my piercing close so quickly?

Accepted Answer

Piercings less than a year old can close very quickly, sometimes within just minutes to hours, as the body naturally begins to heal and close the hole when jewelry is removed. Even if the piercing has healed for 3-8 weeks, this is only the initial healing period, and it's important to continue wearing earrings to ensure the hole remains open.

After the initial 3-8 weeks of healing, you may no longer need to clean your piercings regularly, and you can safely change out the jewelry. However, we strongly recommend keeping earrings in 24/7 for the whole first year, as this is the entire healing timeline for a piercing. The cartilage and tissue still need time to mature and solidify around the jewelry fully. Even piercings older than a year can close if jewelry is removed, especially if the hole hasn’t fully stabilized.

Question 44

What is a post-downsize appointment?

Accepted Answer

Taking care of your new needle piercing is easy! For the first 3 weeks (for lobe piercings) or 8 weeks (for cartilage piercings), you should clean your piercing(s) with Rowan Advanced Cleansing Solution spray and return in approximately 30 days for a Rowan Nurse evaluation. Your nurse can help you determine if your post needs to be downsized.

What is downsizing? When you first get pierced, your nurse will pierce you with an extra-long piercing post. It's normal for ears to swell after they've been pierced, and having a longer post in place will keep your piercing safe from becoming embedded. Once this swelling is no longer there and the ear returns to normal, your post can be switched to a shorter one - this is what we call a downsize.

How do I know if my post needs to be downsized? If you’re experiencing any of the following, your post may need to be downsized. 

Irritation - Longer posts can create irritation leading to friction bumps if left in too long. If you're prone to developing piercing bumps you should have your new piercing downsized approximately 30 days after piercing.

Snagging on clothes and hair - Not only is this super uncomfortable, but accidental snags can cause damage to your piercing and potentially lead to piercing bumps and swelling.

Discomfort - Sometimes the longer post can create discomfort when left in for a long time, or may lead to a piercing "dropping" and healing at an angle.

Aesthetics - If you don't like the look of a longer post, we are happy to downsize it to one that fits your ear anatomy. 

If you're not experiencing any of these issues (or you were pierced with a device earring), then you can continue wearing your original post. When you're ready to change your flat back, visit us in a studio to see all our new styles!

If needed, downsizing your post costs $25 per piercing with a titanium post and $45 per piercing with a 14k Gold post. You keep the front of your original flat-back jewelry, and we swap out the backing! You can book a post-downsize appointment Monday-Friday here. This appointment is recommended but not required. A post-downsize appointment is not necessary for a device piercing.

If you were visiting a Rowan Studio location from afar and cannot return to us, we recommend you consult a local piercing studio after 30 days.

Question 45

Can I cancel my online order?

Accepted Answer

If you need to cancel your order, please email us at support@heyrowan.com as soon as possible.

We’ll do our best to accommodate your request, but please note that orders typically begin processing within a few business hours. Once that happens, we may be unable to make changes or cancellations.

Question 46

What gauge are the earrings?

Accepted Answer

Our device piercing studs, hoops, and non-piercing jewelry styles are all 20 gauge, which is slightly thinner and commonly used for traditional lobe piercings. These are designed to be gentle and comfortable, especially for new piercings.

Our flat back styles, which are used for needle piercings, are 18 gauge. These are slightly thicker and often used for both lobe and cartilage piercings. They provide a bit more stability and are often preferred for long-term wear, especially in cartilage areas.

It's important to note that while both gauges are safe, it's best to match the gauge of your jewelry to your piercing to ensure comfort and proper healing. If you're unsure, feel free to check in with a Rowan Nurse during your appointment or consultation.

For more information about our piercing jewelry, check out this helpful blog post: What’s the Deal with Piercing Earrings?

Question 47

Can I get a piercing on my own if I'm under 18?

Accepted Answer

No. For safety and legal reasons, a parent or legal guardian must be present to sign the waiver and stay with the minor throughout the entire appointment. While grandparents, aunts, uncles, or older siblings are welcome to join and support, they cannot act as the legal guardian.

Please note: We will ask to see a valid photo ID from the parent or legal guardian at the time of the appointment. An ID for the minor is not required, though requirements may vary slightly by state.

Question 48

How do I know if my piercing is infected?

Accepted Answer

Signs of infection include:

Redness
Swelling
The ear is hot to the touch
Discharge (pus or blood)

Make sure that you are cleaning your new piercing two to three times daily. The more you clean, the better your ears will heal! Always wash your hands before touching the piercing, only use saline solution, and avoid rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and creams such as Neosporin or Bacitracin.

If your symptoms do not resolve or you have any concerns that they are getting worse, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider.

Question 49

How do threadless flat back earrings work?

Accepted Answer

Threadless flat back jewelry is unique because it uses tension rather than traditional threaded backing to stay secure. The decorative end and labret post work together, with a slight bend in the pin, creating the tension needed to hold the piece in place.

While our flat-back earrings are designed for security, no earring is completely loss-proof, and external factors can sometimes contribute to their becoming loose over time. To ensure a secure fit, we recommend periodically checking the tension of your jewelry. If you notice any looseness, gently adjust the pin to restore the proper tension.

If you ever need assistance removing or inserting one of our threadless flatbacks, our Rowan nurses are happy to assist you in the studio.

For more information about Rowan flat backs, check out our helpful blog post: Comprehensive Guide to Flat Backs

Question 50

Do I need to bring an ID for myself and my child?

Accepted Answer

You don't need to bring anything to your appointment except your photo ID if you're over 18. We will ask for the parent/guardian's ID for minor appointments. Please note that requirements vary by state, and some locations may ask for additional documentation depending on local regulations.

Question 51

Can I wear my earrings during sports?

Accepted Answer

For most sports, you can cover your new earrings with a bandage or tape to protect them. However, check with your team or league, as rules can vary. If you need to remove your earrings, we strongly recommend putting them back in immediately and following your aftercare instructions. Never force the stud back into your ear.

It's important not to remove your new earrings during the initial healing period — 3 weeks for lobes and 8 weeks for cartilage. If you remove your earrings during this time, you risk the piercing closing, which may require a repiercing. We recommend keeping earrings in 24/7 for the first year to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. Please note that if your piercings close up, we will unfortunately not be able to offer a complimentary re-pierce.

If you're looking for a safe alternative for sports, check out Rowan Sports Studs! These hypoallergenic silicone studs with soft backs are designed for use during physical activities without disrupting the healing process.

For more information about our Sports Studs, check out this helpful blog post: What Earrings Should I Wear While Participating in Sports?

Question 52

What ingredients are in the Advanced Aftercare spray?

Accepted Answer

Our Advanced Aftercare Spray is our preferred aftercare option for safe, effective, and faster healing. It contains water, sodium hypochlorite, and phosphoric acid.

It is gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin. This solution mimics your body’s natural healing response, has antibacterial properties, and helps soothe and calm the skin.

Most excitingly, it can help speed up the healing timeline. Lobe piercings done with a device may be ready for a jewelry change in as little as three weeks instead of six, and cartilage piercings in about eight weeks instead of twelve. While the initial healing stage may finish sooner, all piercings can take up to a full year to completely heal. For that reason, we recommend keeping an earring in at all times during the first year to maintain the shape and health of your new piercing.

If you choose to use a non-Rowan cleanser or a basic saline solution, please remember that healing may take longer since those options do not have the same antibacterial or healing-boosting properties.

For more information about our Advanced Aftercare Spray, check out this helpful blog post: The Ultimate Aftercare Guide

Question 53

How old does my child have to be to get a lobe piercing?

Accepted Answer

For children 5 years old and under, we require proof of one DTaP vaccine, which is typically administered at 2 months old. Minors under 18 must have a parent or guardian present for the piercing.

For children under 5, we use a gentle, hand-pressurized device for lobe piercings rather than a hollow needle. At Rowan, needle piercings are only available for kids who can sit independently and follow instructions, as they need to remain still for the safety and precision of the procedure. Children cannot be held during a needle piercing.

Kids ages 5 and up may be considered for needle piercings on a case-by-case basis. Because safety is always our priority, our nurses will assess each child’s readiness. If it’s determined that a needle isn’t the best option, a device piercing will be recommended instead. Rowan reserves the right to decline a needle piercing if safety cannot be ensured.

Second lobe piercings for children under nine are offered at the discretion of the parent or guardian and the Rowan Nurse.

Placement and age requirements may vary slightly by state and studio location. We will ask for the parent/guardian's ID for minor appointments. Please note that requirements vary by state, and some locations may ask for additional documentation depending on local regulations.

Question 54

Can I swim with my new piercing?

Accepted Answer

You're welcome to swim in clean, chlorinated pools or the ocean — just be sure to clean your new piercing(s) with our Advanced Aftercare Cleansing Solution afterward.

We do recommend avoiding lakes or rivers for at least two weeks, as those bodies of water can carry more bacteria.

For more information about swimming with a new piercing, check out this helpful blog post: Can You Swim After Getting Ears Pierced?

Question 55

Is there a Rowan Studio in my area?

Accepted Answer

We’d love to see you in person! You can find your nearest Rowan studio by visiting our Studio Locator and entering your zip code or city. We’re always growing, so check back often to see if we’re popping up near you!

Question 56

What is the difference in earring back types?

Accepted Answer

We use a variety of earring back styles, depending on the design. Each one is safe, secure, comfortable, and designed with healing in mind. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Butterfly Backs

Also known as friction backs or push backs, butterfly backs are the classic style you might already be familiar with. They slide onto the post and stay secure with light pressure. These are found on many of our device piercing stud options, as well as many of our non-piercing stud styles.

Bell Backs

Bell backs are designed for extra comfort, especially during the healing process. They’re shaped like a tiny bell and feature a rounded end that helps prevent poking or irritation behind the ear. They’re a popular choice for babies and kids. These are found on a selection of our device piercing stud options.

Threadless Flat Backs

Flat backs have a smooth disk that sits against the back of your ear and a post that inserts from the back forward. Our threadless style means the front of the earring gently clicks into place with tension, without twisting. These are commonly used for cartilage piercings and offer a low-profile, secure fit that's super comfortable. This style is available exclusively in-studio and is the only option used for needle piercings, which are offered for ages five and up.

Question 57

How old does my child have to be to get a cartilage piercing?

Accepted Answer

In select locations, we can perform cartilage piercings on children 12 years of age or older. Please see your local piercing location to ensure we have that offering available.

Question 58

How do I comfortably sleep with my new piercing?

Accepted Answer

Sleeping on a new piercing can lead to irritation and piercing bumps—not to mention being uncomfortable! To avoid this, we recommend using a pillow designed to minimize friction and pressure on the ear. A donut-shaped or airplane/travel pillow can provide a more comfortable night's sleep and help your piercing heal properly.

Our Rowan Ear Pillow is designed to give your piercings room to breathe while relieving pressure when sleeping on your side. Our nurses suggest slipping the pillow into a pillowcase or T-shirt, using each side for one night, and changing the pillowcase or T-shirt every two days to keep things fresh.

For more tips on piercing care, check out this helpful blog post: Your Guide to Sleeping With a New Piercing

Question 59

Are Rowan piercings available at my local Target?

Accepted Answer

We're sorry, but we are no longer offering piercings at Target. However, several Rowan studio locations are currently open across the US, and many more are opening soon! Find the location closest to you here, and follow us @heyrowan to stay up to date on where we are opening next. We hope to celebrate with you soon!

Question 60

Do you offer ear styling?

Accepted Answer

Whether you want additional piercings or just new jewelry, our Rowan Nurses are experts in styling new and existing piercings to suit your ear anatomy best!

You don't need to make an appointment for a styling consultation or to shop for new jewelry; please feel free to stop into your local studio whenever you get a chance, and the team will be more than happy to help you.

Please remember that we cannot remove non-Rowan jewelry or insert new jewelry into placements that Rowan does not pierce.

For more information about styling, check out these helpful blog posts: How to Make Your Perfect Earring Stack & What’s my ear type?

Question 61

Why do I have a bump near my new cartilage piercing?

Accepted Answer

Developing a bump on a cartilage piercing can be common; fortunately, it’s easy to resolve. Bumps develop due to skin cells, fluids, or other wound debris buildup. The best way to prevent or treat a piercing bump is to be very diligent with your cleaning routine. Using your aftercare of choice, soak the end of a cotton swab and clean around the piercing in a circular motion in the front and back 2-3 times daily. Be careful not to catch your piercing on your clothing, as this can also cause bumps. Avoid sleeping on your cartilage piercing while it’s healing. Don’t touch, twist, turn, or play with your piercing unless you're cleaning it. Cartilage piercings are very sensitive, and with a little extra time and attention, your piercing will heal nicely.

Question 62

Are At Home Rowan piercings available in my area?

Accepted Answer

We're sorry, but we are no longer offering At Home visits. However, several Rowan studio locations are currently open across the US, and many more are opening soon! Find the location closest to you here, and follow us @heyrowan to stay up to date on where we are opening next. We hope to celebrate with you soon!

Question 63

Do you offer numbing cream?

Accepted Answer

We do offer optional numbing cream, but we do not use it for children under 5 years old. Infant and toddler skin is especially sensitive, and we avoid using lidocaine to prevent any potential reactions or allergies.

Please note that numbing cream is not available at our Michigan locations.

Rest assured, ear piercings aren’t as painful as they may seem! We take great care to keep your child comfortable throughout the process. In fact, some infants even sleep through their piercings! Feel free to bring snacks, iPads, favorite toys, or anything else that helps keep your child happy during their appointment.

Question 64

I think I have an infection after changing my new piercing.

Accepted Answer

This can happen when changing into earrings that are not hypoallergenic. Do you know what kind of earrings you are wearing? Do they contain nickel? We always recommend wearing hypoallergenic earrings to help prevent infection!

It takes up to a year for a piercing to fully heal. In that timeframe, you may have some normal drainage (usually clear, sometimes bloody), itchiness, or tenderness in the area. All of these are normal findings and are not indicative of an infection. Occasional redness or a small amount of swelling may be noted as well. However, signs and symptoms of an infection include yellow-green or foul-smelling drainage, a large amount of redness and swelling that does not go away on its own, and in extreme cases, fever (temperature of 100.4 F or higher). If you have any of these symptoms, please seek medical care with your primary care provider for further evaluation and treatment.

The best way to prevent an infection is to follow the cleaning regimen with your aftercare solution and only wear 100% hypoallergenic and nickel-free jewelry. Always wash your hands before cleaning the piercing. Make sure that you clean your new piercing 2-3 times daily.

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