January 04, 2026

Surface Piercing: Types, Pain, Healing, Price, Jewelry, Sizes, Pros and Cons

What Is a Surface Piercing?

A surface piercing is any piercing that is placed on the skin's surface rather than piercing through it. While many common piercings are surface piercings, they can also be found in less typical locations.

Learn more about surface piercings and what to consider before you book your next piercing appointment.

What Are the Different Types of Surface Piercings?

Some of the most popular types of piercings are considered surface piercings, including eyebrow piercings.

Surface tragus piercing - This piercing is located on the area of flat skin in front of your ear canal (rather than going through the cartilage).

Anti-eyebrow surface piercing - This surface piercing is situated on the upper cheekbone, just below the eye, instead of through the eyebrow.
Surface tongue piercing - This piercing enters and exits on the same surface, typically the top, unlike traditional ones that go through the entire tongue.
Cheek surface piercing - This piercing is on the surface of your cheek and does not enter the mouth, making it a safer option than a traditional "dimple" piercing.
Surface back piercing - A piercing on your back where the jewelry enters and exits through the same flat plane of skin.

Many people express their individuality by layering surface piercings, choosing unique jewelry ends, or incorporating them into their tattoos. However, because surface piercing jewelry requires enough tissue to heal properly, not every area of the body is suitable for this type of modification.

What's Special About This Piercing?

Surface piercings are popular because they bypass traditional anatomical requirements, offering versatility and aesthetic appeal. They can be placed on nearly any flat surface of the body, making them ideal for a unique look.

Surface Tragus Piercing Pain Scale

On a pain scale of 0-10, most people rate a surface tragus piercing somewhere between a 4 and a 6. It is most often described as a sharp pinch with a few seconds of intense pressure.

Surface Tragus Piercing Healing Time

Surface piercings generally take a longer time to heal, with most taking between 6 and 12 months. To ensure fast and safe healing, it's important to follow all aftercare instructions that have been provided to you by your piercer.

How Much Does It Cost?

Typically, these piercings cost anywhere between $40 and $80. This estimate does not include the cost of jewelry, which is usually priced starting at $40.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Surface Piercings?

Surface piercings offer a unique look that helps you stand out, but they come with some challenges that differ from standard piercings.

Pros

Unique placements - Surface piercings sit flat on the skin and can be placed on areas where traditional piercings may not be possible.
Striking look - This style offers a double-pierced look with flat ends against the skin, making it a great choice for a unique, edgy aesthetic.
Relatively low pain - In many cases, the pain is usually described as a quick, sharp pinch.

Cons

Higher rejection rate - Surface piercings are considered "long-term" temporary, typically lasting 5 to 7 years, as the body may eventually push out the jewelry.
Scarring risk - A rejected surface piercing can leave a more significant permanent scar than standard piercings.
Longer healing time - Surface piercings generally take a longer time to heal, with most taking between 6 and 12 months.
Risk of snagging - Depending on their location, they are highly prone to catching or snagging on towels, clothing, and hair.

It's always important to weigh your individual risks before committing to a piercing.

Surface Piercings vs. Dermals: What Are the Differences? Which Is Better?

The main difference between a surface piercing and a dermal piercing is the number of entry points and how they interact with your unique biology. Here are a few additional differences to consider:

Entry Point

Surface piercing - Two points (one entrance and an exit point).
Dermal anchor - A single entry point.

Jewelry Type

Surface piercing - A long barbell that is usually staple-shaped.
Dermal anchor - A small base (anchor) tucked underneath the skin.

Visibility

Surface piercing - Has two visible ends.
Dermal anchor - Has one visible end that seems to "float" against the skin.

Rejection Risk

Surface piercing - Higher risk of rejection.
Dermal anchor - A lower risk of rejection.

Healing Time

Surface piercing - About 6 to 12 months.
Dermal anchor - About 1 to 3 months.

Removal

Surface piercing - Easily removable.
Dermal anchor - Requires a professional.

Surface Piercing Rejection

Rejections are common with surface piercings because the body sees the jewelry as foreign. Since surface piercings sit on the skin's surface rather than passing through, the immune system can more easily push them out.

Some clear signs of rejection include:

Your jewelry is visibly moving from its original position.
The skin around your jewelry is becoming thinner or tighter.
The holes are enlarging or getting closer together.
Your skin appears transparent or flaky over your jewelry.
You notice prolonged redness or inflammation at the piercing site.

If you see signs of rejection, consult a professional. If confirmed, remove the jewelry and clean the area with sterile saline. Avoid using tape or bandages to hold a rejected piercing in place, as it can cause more damage.

Surface Piercing Jewelry

Types

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The ideal jewelry for surface piercings, like the surface tragus, is a staple bar. Its unique shape allows it to lie flat against the skin, minimizing tension. Staple bars have 90-degree bends and typically feature flat discs or gems that can be screwed on the ends.

Curved barbells are NOT appropriate for surface piercings. Their shape puts constant pressure against the skin, which increases your risk of rejection within a few months.

Gauge and Length

The standard gauge recommendation is 14G (1.6mm) to 16G (1.2mm), with thicker gauges preferred for first piercings for added stability.

While the length varies by individual anatomy, the flat bar usually runs between 1/4" (6mm) and 12mm (1/2") in length. Surface bars are available in various lengths based on your preferences.

The height of the posts at the ends of a staple bar also differs to match the thickness of your skin. The most common rise heights are between 2 mm and 3 mm.

You should always ask to see the jewelry your piercer will use before they begin. If they are using a curved barbell for a surface tragus, they are not following the current safety standards from the Association of Professional Piercers.

Recommended Metals

The best materials to select for your surface piercing are implant-grade titanium, 14-karat or 18-karat gold, and surgical stainless steel.

1. Implant-Grade Titanium: About $20-$40

Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing: Placement, Duration, Pain, Cost, Healing, Jewelry, Aftercare

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Titanium piercing jewelry is strongly recommended. Titanium is a corrosion-resistant, shiny metal prized for its low weight and strength. It has a reputation for being the best metal for piercings for many reasons. It is hypoallergenic, lightweight, nickel-free, and won’t tarnish.

To be detailed, titanium is hypoallergenic, meaning it is less likely to cause allergic reactions. It’s often recommended for those who are allergic to brass, nickel, and other metals common in jewelry.

Its high density-to-strength ratio means your jewelry is very durable. A lower density also makes titanium lightweight, a big plus for many users. Finally, the metal comes in many colors because you can anodize it.

2. 14-Karat and 18-Karat Gold: About $40-$200

14-karat and 18-karat gold ear piercing jewelry can offer an elevated look. This metal will not rust or tarnish. It is also easy to decorate and shape. The added alloys in 18k and especially 14k make them more durable than 24k gold pieces.

One downside to gold jewelry is the price tag, which is expensive. Another concern will be that the metal is soft, making it susceptible to bends, breaks, and gouges. Also, consider if you have allergies, such as an allergy to gold.

3. Surgical-Grade Stainless Steel: About $5-$30

If you opt for stainless steel, you should opt for surgical-grade steel. It often contributes to a smooth healing process and is extremely durable. However, even surgical-grade steel may contain small amounts of nickel that could cause allergic reactions in those with skin sensitivities.

Talk through all material options with your piercer to figure out what’s best for you and your skin.

Is an Eyebrow Piercing a Surface Piercing?

An eyebrow piercing is classified as a surface piercing because it enters and exits through the same area of skin. Although it doesn't lie flat, it shares many characteristics with other surface piercings.

Is a Vertical Labret a Surface Piercing?

A vertical labret piercing is a lip piercing that goes vertically through the center of the lower lip.

Unlike surface piercings, which rest on top of the skin, this piercing passes through the lip tissue and exits just below the surface. It is generally considered more stable and has a lower rejection rate than surface piercings.