National Body Piercing Day

Close-up image of a person with unique piercings, wearing punk-inspired clothing, against an urban street art backdrop..
National body piercing day illustration

Hey there, body mod enthusiasts! Get ready to celebrate National Body Piercing Day with a bang (or should I say a piercing)!

When is Body Piercing Day?

It's national body piercing day on the 28th June.


The History of National Body Piercing Day

Are you ready to learn the fascinating origins of National Body Piercing Day? Well, get ready, because we're about to dive into the world of piercing history!

Believe it or not, body piercing has been around for centuries. It's not just a modern trend! Throughout time, different cultures have embraced body piercing for a variety of reasons. Ancient Egyptians pierced their navels as a symbol of royalty, while Mayans adorned their noses to beautify themselves.

Fast forward to more recent times, and body piercing started gaining popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. It became a form of self-expression and a way to rebel against societal norms. And, my friend, it hasn't slowed down since!

How to Celebrate National Body Piercing Day

Ready to celebrate this unique holiday? Here are a few fun ways to commemorate National Body Piercing Day:

  1. Get a New Piercing: Whether you're a seasoned piercing pro or a first-timer, use this day as an excuse to get a new piercing and rock a cool piece of body jewelry.
  2. Learn about Piercing Safety: Education is key when it comes to body piercing. Take the opportunity to research reputable piercing studios, sterilization practices, and aftercare tips.
  3. Show off Your Piercings: Flaunt your unique piercings on social media using the hashtag #NationalBodyPiercingDay. You might inspire others to embrace their inner rebel!
  4. Organize a Piercing Party: Grab a group of friends and head to a trusted piercing studio for a fun and memorable piercing party. It's always more enjoyable when shared with loved ones!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the most pierced person in the world, according to the Guinness World Records, is Elaine Davidson? As of 2000, she had a staggering 462 piercings on her body, including 192 on her face alone! Talk about dedication to the art of piercing!



History behind the term 'Body Piercing'


3000 BCE.

Ancient Beginnings.

Body piercing can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, and Romans. In 3000 BCE, ancient Sumerians were known to pierce their ears as a sign of wealth and for spiritual protection. Similarly, the Egyptians utilized body piercing, including ear and naval piercings, as symbols of religious significance and to denote social status. Romans practiced nipple piercing, which was believed to provide strength and courage to soldiers.


3200 BCE

Ancient Beginnings

Body piercing has deep roots in ancient cultures around the world. The oldest evidence of body piercing dates back to 3200 BCE in the ancient Egyptian civilization. Both men and women adorned their bodies with various types of piercings, including ear, nose, and naval piercings. These piercings held symbolic and religious significance.


5000 BCE

Ancient Beginnings

Body piercing has been practiced by various ancient cultures. One of the earliest records of body piercings dates back to 5000 BCE, with evidence found in ancient Egyptian tombs. In ancient Egypt, body piercings were associated with wealth and status, and both men and women adorned themselves with piercings, including earrings, nose rings, and belly button rings.



1500 BCE

Ancient Beginnings

Body piercing dates back to ancient times, with evidence of its practice dating as far back as 1500 BCE. It was common among various cultures around the world, including the Egyptians, Romans, and Aztecs. These ancient civilizations used body piercing for a variety of purposes, including religious and cultural rituals, as well as for beauty and adornment.


1970

The Rise of Counterculture

In the 1970s, the counterculture movement began to flourish, challenging societal norms and embracing alternative lifestyles. Body piercing emerged as a form of self-expression and rebellion against the mainstream. Initially popular among hippies and punks, body piercing offered individuals a way to reject conventional beauty standards and truly embody their unique identity.


3000 BCE

Early Beginnings

Body piercing has its roots in ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Mayans, and Romans. In 3000 BCE, the Egyptians were known to practice body piercing, with evidence of pierced navels and earlobes. The Mayans also had a long history of body piercing, using materials like jade and gold. Romans were fond of using piercing as a sign of wealth and status.



1500 BCE

Ancient Beginnings

Body piercing dates back to ancient times. The practice can be traced as far back as 1500 BCE, where evidence of body piercing has been found in ancient Egyptian mummies. Egyptians, particularly elite members of society, believed that body piercing had a spiritual significance and acted as a form of protection against evil spirits.


3000 BC

Ancient Beginnings

Body piercing can be traced back to ancient times, specifically around 3000 BC. Archaeological evidence suggests that ancient Egyptians and Mesopotamians practiced body piercing as a form of cultural and religious expression. In these early civilizations, body piercing was often associated with status, beauty, and spiritual significance. People would adorn various body parts, including the ears, nose, lips, and nipples, with decorative jewelry made of materials like gold, silver, and stone.


5000 BCE

Early Beginnings

The practice of body piercing dates back to at least 5000 BCE. It is believed to have originated in ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and India. In these societies, body piercing was often associated with religious and spiritual rituals, as well as with cultural and social meanings. Piercings were adorned with various objects, including stones, bones, and shells.



5000 BCE

Primitive Beginnings

Body piercing can be traced back to around 5000 BCE, where it was practiced by various ancient cultures. In primitive societies, body piercing was often associated with religious or spiritual beliefs. It was believed to ward off evil spirits, protect against disease, and symbolize social status or cultural identity. Methods of piercing varied depending on the culture, with some using sharp objects like bones or thorns, while others utilized rudimentary tools made from stone or animal bones.


5000 BCE

Ancient Beginnings

Body piercing has ancient origins, dating back to around 5000 BCE. The practice was prevalent in many cultures throughout history, including the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Mayans, and Aztecs. In these ancient civilizations, body piercing was often associated with religious and ritualistic practices. The materials used for piercing varied, ranging from bones, shells, and wood to gold, silver, and precious stones.


1500 BC

Ancient Beginnings

Body piercing traces its origins back to ancient civilizations. The oldest evidence of body piercing dates back to approximately 1500 BC in Mesopotamia, present-day Iraq. Excavations have revealed intricately pierced earrings made of gold, which were worn by both men and women of the time. These early forms of body piercing were often seen as symbols of wealth, status, and spirituality.



500 BCE

Indigenous Practices

Around 500 BCE, body piercing was prevalent among indigenous cultures in different parts of the world. For instance, native tribes in North and South America, such as the Aztecs and Mayans, practiced various forms of body piercing. These piercings were often seen as indicators of social rank, religious beliefs, and rites of passage. Materials such as bone, wood, and feathers were used to create unique and culturally significant piercings.


1500-1200 BCE

Ear Piercing in Ancient Egypt

Ear piercing was particularly popular in ancient Egypt. It held significant cultural and symbolic meaning, indicating social status and wealth. The earlobes of both men and women were adorned with various types of earrings. In fact, depictions of pharaohs and nobles often show them wearing elaborate ear jewelry.


1500 BCE

Mesoamerican Influence

In ancient Mesoamerica, body piercing was prevalent among various cultures such as the Aztecs and Mayans. These civilizations practiced intricate forms of piercing, particularly in the earlobes and nose. The Mesoamericans used materials like jade, gold, and obsidian to create stunning body jewelry, showcasing their craftsmanship and status within the society.



16th Century

The Renaissance Influence

During the Renaissance period in Europe (14th to 17th centuries), body piercing started gaining popularity among the aristocracy and the upper class. It became fashionable to wear jewelry in various parts of the body, including the ears, nose, and nipples. The Renaissance era saw an increased interest in body modification as a form of self-expression and personal style.


16th Century

Sailors and Pirates

During the 16th century, European sailors and pirates adopted body piercing as a symbol of their voyages and adventures. Piercings such as earrings became popular among sailors due to the belief that they could improve eyesight and prevent seasickness. These seafaring men introduced body piercing to different parts of the world through their travels.


500 BC

Egyptian Elegance

Body piercing continued to flourish in ancient Egypt. The Egyptians are known for their distinctive style and love for adornment. They embraced body piercing, particularly in their ears and navels. Earrings made of gold, silver, and precious stones were popular among the affluent, while more common people used simpler materials. Piercing was not only a fashion statement, but also believed to protect against evil spirits and bring good luck.



5th Century CE.

Piercing in the Middle Ages.

During the Middle Ages, body piercing fell out of favor due to the influence of the Church. Piercing, especially of unconventional body parts, was considered taboo and even demonic. However, despite the social stigma, some indigenous cultures and members of alternative subcultures continued to embrace body piercing as a form of personal expression.


500 BCE

Historical Records

Around 500 BCE, Greek historian Herodotus documented the practice of body piercing among various ancient tribes, including the Persians, Thracians, and Celts. The Celts, in particular, were known for their elaborate facial piercings, such as nose and lip piercings, which they considered a form of warrior decoration.


500 BCE

Rituals and Status Symbols

Body piercing continued to be practiced in various ancient cultures for both ritualistic and status symbol purposes. In 500 BCE, the Greeks utilized body piercings as a way to distinguish between slaves and free individuals. It was also used as a form of adornment and to symbolize wealth and power.



1978

Primitive Body Modification Practices

The history of body piercing extends far beyond the counterculture movement. It can trace its roots back to ancient civilizations that engaged in various forms of body modification. From primitive tribes to ancient Egyptians and Romans, body piercing was practiced for religious, cultural, and aesthetic purposes. These historical practices laid the foundation for the modern-day body piercing culture.


1500 BCE

Royal Fashion

In ancient Egypt, body piercing became highly popular among the royalty and elite classes. Pharaohs and queens adorned themselves with intricate piercings, showcasing their wealth and status. Egyptians commonly decorated their piercings with gold, jewels, and precious stones. Body piercing was also practiced in other ancient civilizations like Greece and Rome, where it was associated with fashion and beauty.


1500 BCE

Egyptian Adornments

Egyptian civilization played a significant role in the development of body piercing. In the year 1500 BCE, the ancient Egyptians were known to sport a wide range of body piercings. They adorned themselves with piercings not only for cultural and religious purposes but also as a symbol of wealth and beauty. The most commonly pierced body parts were the ears, nose, and navel. The Egyptians used various materials for jewelry, such as gold, silver, and precious stones, which further enhanced their aesthetic appeal.



1970s

Counterculture and Body Modification

In the 1970s, the counterculture movement embraced body modification, including body piercing. Inspired by tribal communities and ancient practices, individuals began piercing various parts of their bodies as a form of self-expression and rebellion against societal norms. This period marked the beginning of a significant shift in mainstream perceptions of body piercing.


6th Century CE

Cultural Influence of Indian Ayurveda

During the 6th century CE, body piercing gained prominence in Indian culture. Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, recognized the practice of ear and nostril piercing as a way to improve overall health and well-being. Specific points on the ear were believed to be connected to various organs and acupuncture points, leading to increased popularity of ear piercing.


14th-15th Century

Renaissance Period

During the European Renaissance period in the 14th and 15th centuries, body piercing fell out of favor due to changing societal norms and religious influence. Piercing was associated with paganism and was discouraged by the Church.



300 BC

Greek Influence

The ancient Greeks made their mark on body piercing as well. In Greek mythology, earrings symbolized the divine and were associated with the goddess Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Greek soldiers also pierced their nipples to show their bravery in battle. This practice eventually spread across the Roman Empire, where it became a symbol of strength and masculinity.


1960s.

Piercing in the Counterculture Movement.

The 1960s counterculture movement brought body piercing back into the mainstream. Inspired by indigenous cultures and influenced by Eastern spiritual practices, individuals began embracing body piercings as a symbol of rebellion against societal norms and a way to express their individuality. Artists and celebrities played a significant role in popularizing body piercing during this time.


14th Century

Renaissance Influence

During the 14th century, body piercing witnessed a shift in its cultural significance due to the influence of the Renaissance period. Piercings were no longer solely associated with indigenous cultures but rather became popular among European nobility. It became fashionable for wealthy individuals to wear jewelry in their ears, eyebrows, and even naval piercings. This newfound fascination with body piercings helped establish it as a symbol of wealth and prestige.



1970s

Modern Revival

Body piercing experienced a significant revival in the 1970s, with a new wave of cultural expression and individuality. The punk and alternative subcultures embraced body piercing as a form of rebellion against societal norms and a way to display their unique identity. This period saw the emergence of various types of piercings, including earlobe, eyebrow, tongue, and navel piercings, among others.


1980

The Establishment of the Gauntlet

In the early 1980s, Jim Ward, a pioneer in the body piercing community, founded The Gauntlet in Los Angeles, California. It was the first professional body piercing studio, providing a safe and hygienic environment for individuals to get their piercings. The Gauntlet played a significant role in the popularization and standardization of body piercing as a legitimate practice.


5th Century BCE

Piercing in Ancient India

During the 5th century BCE, body piercing gained prominence in ancient India. It was an integral part of Indian culture, particularly in the form of ear piercing. Ear piercings were highly regarded and seen as a sacred practice, signifying a person's connection to spirituality and yoga. The earrings worn by both men and women were often intricately designed and made from materials like gold, silver, or terracotta. Jewelry was believed to balance the energy flow in the body and enhance overall well-being.



1960s-1970s

The Modern Revival

Body piercing experienced a resurgence in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly within the counterculture and punk movements. Individuals began experimenting with more extreme forms of body piercing, such as eyebrow, lip, and tongue piercings. This period marked a shift in body piercing from a traditional and cultural practice to a form of rebellion, self-identity, and artistic expression.


200 BCE

Roman Fascination

During the Roman Empire, body piercing gained significant popularity. Romans embraced body piercings as a mark of valor, wealth, and social standing. They adorned themselves with a wide range of piercings, including earrings, nipple piercings, and even genital piercings. Body piercing became a symbol of cultural fusion as Romans absorbed practices from other civilizations they encountered.


200-500 CE

Nose Piercing in India

During this period, nose piercing became a prominent practice in India. It had deep cultural and religious significance, especially among women. The left side of the nose was commonly pierced as it was associated with female fertility and enhanced the woman's beauty. Nose rings were often made of gold or silver and adorned with intricate designs and gemstones.



16th-19th Century

European Influences

During the 16th to the 19th century, body piercing faced a decline in popularity in Europe due to societal changes and religious influences. However, it experienced a resurgence during the Victorian era, mainly among the upper class. Women began piercing their ears and sometimes even their nipples, but these practices remained discreet and were not widely accepted. The limited acceptance of body piercing during this time can be attributed to conservative social norms and the strict etiquette prevalent in European society.


20th Century

Modern Piercing Movement

The 20th century marked a pivotal moment in the history of body piercing, as it experienced a revival and integration into contemporary culture. In the 1970s, the punk and alternative subcultures adopted body piercing as a means of self-expression and rebellion against societal norms. This movement, along with the influence of celebrities and popular culture, popularized various types of piercings, such as nose, eyebrow, and tongue piercings.


1300 AD

Tribal Traditions

As civilization progressed, body piercing took on different meanings in various tribal cultures. Tribes in Africa, Asia, and the Americas incorporated body piercing into their rituals, ceremonies, and cultural practices. From lip and nose piercings to stretched earlobes and septum piercings, these tribes used body piercing as a way to express tribal affiliation, cultural identity, and spiritual beliefs.



1970s-1980s.

Birth of Modern Body Piercing.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the modern body piercing movement emerged. Innovations in jewelry, sterilization techniques, and piercing procedures led to the establishment of professional piercing studios. The Gauntlet, founded by Jim Ward, played a pivotal role in promoting safe and hygienic piercing practices. This era marked the beginning of a standardized approach to body piercing.


1990s

Mainstream Acceptance and Global Influence

During the 1990s, body piercing gained more mainstream acceptance and became a global phenomenon. The punk and alternative scenes heavily influenced popular culture, with musicians, actors, and models proudly displaying their body piercings. This widespread exposure led to a surge in popularity, and body piercing studios began to open worldwide, catering to a diverse range of clientele.


1970s

Punk and Subcultures

In the 1970s, body piercing underwent a resurgence as part of the punk movement. Punks embraced body piercings as a form of rebellion and self-expression. Nose, lip, and eyebrow piercings became popular among punk rockers, shocking and challenging societal norms. This subculture helped bring body piercing into the mainstream consciousness, paving the way for its widespread acceptance.



1990s

Mainstream Popularity

In the 1990s, body piercing entered the mainstream. Musicians, such as rock and punk artists, prominently displayed extensive piercings, contributing to the increased acceptance of body piercing as a fashion statement. This era saw a surge in professional piercing studios and the availability of a wide range of body jewelry.


1960s-1970s

Modern Resurgence

Body piercing experienced a resurgence in the 1960s and 1970s as part of the counterculture movement. Inspired by tribal cultures and influenced by Eastern philosophies, individuals began exploring body piercings as a form of self-expression and rebellion against societal norms. It became particularly popular among hippies and the punk subculture.


16th Century

Exploration and Globalization

With the era of exploration and globalization in the 16th century, body piercing became influenced by different cultures. Sailors and explorers would often encounter indigenous tribes who practiced body piercing as part of their cultural and spiritual traditions. These encounters introduced new piercing techniques and jewelry styles to the Western world.



1990s-Present

Mainstream Acceptance

In the 1990s, body piercing gradually gained mainstream acceptance and became a popular trend. Celebrities and musicians started sporting various piercings, and the practice became more widely available in professional piercing studios. Today, body piercing has become a mainstream form of body art and self-expression, with individuals adorning their bodies with a wide range of piercings, from simple earlobe piercings to more intricate and unique placements.


1990s

Mainstream Acceptance

In the 1990s, body piercing broke through the barriers of subculture and gained mainstream acceptance. Celebrities and pop icons began sporting piercings, which sparked a trend among their followers. Body piercing studios became more prevalent, offering a safe and professional environment for people to get pierced. Designers started creating specialized jewelry exclusively for body piercings, further fueling the popularity of this form of self-expression.


16th Century

Piercing in Europe

Body piercing in Europe became prevalent during the 16th century. Sailors and pirates often had their ears pierced to mark their travels and adventures. It served as a form of identification when they died, as the value of their gold earrings could cover the cost of a proper burial. Gradually, ear piercing for both men and women gained popularity as a fashion statement.



1970s

Popularity in Counterculture Movements

Body piercing experienced a resurgence in the 1970s as part of various counterculture movements, such as the punk and goth subcultures. The rebellious and anti-establishment nature of these subcultures embraced body piercings as symbols of individuality and non-conformity. It marked a shift in how body piercing was seen, moving from traditional and cultural practices to a form of self-expression.


Present

Diverse and Popular

Today, body piercing is an integral part of various cultures worldwide. It has become a mainstream fashion statement embraced by people from all walks of life. With advancements in jewelry materials and piercing techniques, the possibilities for body art have expanded. From simple earlobe piercings to elaborate full-body adornments, body piercing continues to evolve and provide individuals with a unique avenue for self-expression.


1990s-Present

Mainstream Acceptance

In the 1990s, body piercing started gaining mainstream acceptance and became a widely practiced form of body modification. The popularity of piercings spread across different demographics and piercing studios began to pop up worldwide. Today, body piercing is an integral part of contemporary fashion and personal style, with a wide range of jewelry options and body locations to choose from.



Present Day

Diverse Forms of Expression

Body piercing has become a widely accepted and diverse form of self-expression in contemporary culture. People of all ages and backgrounds choose to pierce various body parts, such as ears, noses, tongues, navels, and even more unconventional areas. Body piercing is celebrated as a means of personal empowerment and artistic expression, reflecting the ever-changing ideas of beauty and individuality.


1960s

The Modern Revival

In the 1960s, body piercing experienced a resurgence thanks to the counterculture movement and the influence of tribal aesthetics. Body piercings gained popularity among hippies, who sought non-conventional ways of self-expression. The punk and rock subcultures of the 1970s and 1980s further propelled the trend, with individuals embracing various piercings, including eyebrow, lip, and tongue piercings. Body piercing became a symbol of rebellion and individualism.


1990s

Popularity and Variety

By the 1990s, body piercing had become more mainstream and diverse. It was no longer confined to countercultures but instead embraced by people from various walks of life. The popularity of body piercing led to an expansion in the types of piercings available, including tongue, navel, and multiple ear piercings. The jewelry industry also responded with a wide array of designs, materials, and styles to cater to the growing demand.



Present Day

Mainstream Acceptance

Today, body piercing has become a widely accepted form of personal expression and adornment across different cultures and social groups. It has transcended its historical associations and is now valued for its aesthetic appeal and individuality. Professional piercing studios, stringent hygiene practices, and a wide range of jewelry options have contributed to its mainstream popularity. Body piercing continues to evolve and adapt to contemporary fashion trends while retaining its rich cultural heritage.


20th Century

Piercing Emerges as a Modern Trend

The 20th century witnessed a significant transformation in body piercing, marking the emergence of a modern trend. In the 1970s, body piercing gained popularity within counterculture movements like the punk and BDSM communities. The rebellious nature of these subcultures, coupled with the desire for self-expression, led to an increased interest in piercings of various body parts. The mainstream acceptance of body piercing followed in the later decades, with celebrities and fashion icons embracing the trend and making it more widely accessible.


21st Century

Evolution and Variety

In the 21st century, body piercing has evolved into a diverse art form with a wide range of styles and techniques. From traditional earlobe piercings to intricate body adornments like dermal piercings and surface piercings, the possibilities are endless. Body piercings now symbolize personal expression, cultural identity, and even spiritual beliefs. It continues to thrive as a vibrant subculture, embracing creativity and pushing boundaries.



1990s-Present.

Mainstream Acceptance and Diversity.

In the 1990s, body piercing gradually gained widespread acceptance. It became a thriving industry with professional piercers adhering to strict standards of safety and cleanliness. Body piercing also became an integral part of various subcultures and fashion trends, ranging from punk and goth to hip-hop and pop culture. Today, body piercing continues to evolve and diversify, with a wide range of placement options, jewelry styles, and cultural influences.


1970s

The Modern Body Piercing Movement

In the 1970s, body piercing experienced a revival as part of the counterculture and punk movements. It became a form of self-expression and rebellion against societal norms. The introduction of new techniques and modern tools made body piercing more accessible, leading to the establishment of dedicated piercing studios. The practice expanded beyond ear and nose piercings to include various body parts like eyebrows, lips, tongues, and navels.


Present Day

Global Phenomenon

In the present day, body piercing has become a global phenomenon, transcending cultural boundaries. It is now a common form of self-expression and personal adornment. People from all walks of life engage in body piercing as a means of expressing their individuality and embracing diverse aesthetics. Body piercing studios can be found worldwide, offering a hygienic and professional environment for those seeking this ancient form of body modification.



1990s - Present

Mainstream Acceptance and Popularity

From the 1990s onwards, body piercing became increasingly accepted and popular in mainstream society. It evolved into a form of body art, with people adorning various parts of their bodies with multiple piercings. The jewelry and fashion industries also played a significant role in making body piercings more accessible and fashionable.


Present Day

Diverse and Creative Forms

In the present day, body piercing has become a global phenomenon, thriving in diverse cultures around the world. It is no longer limited to specific subcultures but has become a popular form of personal expression and adornment. People now pierce various body parts, including eyebrows, lips, tongues, genitals, and even surface areas like the nape and belly button. Additionally, body piercings have become increasingly creative, with the introduction of unique jewelry styles, such as barbells, captive bead rings, and dermal anchors.


1990s

Mainstream Acceptance

By the 1990s, body piercing had transitioned from counterculture to mainstream. Celebrities such as Madonna and Lenny Kravitz proudly sported multiple piercings, leading to a wider acceptance of this form of self-expression. Professional body piercing studios emerged, focusing on safe and hygienic practices. Today, body piercing is a thriving industry, offering a wide range of piercing options and jewelry materials to cater to various tastes and preferences.



Did you know?

Did you know that the most pierced person in the world, according to the Guinness World Records, is Elaine Davidson? As of 2000, she had a staggering 462 piercings on her body, including 192 on her face alone! Talk about dedication to the art of piercing!

Tagged

awareness fun loved ones

First identified

28th June 2016

Most mentioned on

28th June 2016

Total mentions

13

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