Additional Coverage:
- Cardi B joins North West by embracing dangerous piercings trend months after giving birth (themirror.com)
Celebrity Piercing Trend Sparks Health Concerns: North West’s Finger Bling and Cardi B’s Dermal Anchors Raise Eyebrows
The latest celebrity fashion statement has experts sounding the alarm, as reality scion North West, 12, and Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B embrace a high-risk dermal piercing trend. While these micro-accessories might be all the rage on social media, medical professionals are highlighting significant health concerns, particularly regarding infection and potential complications.
North West, daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, recently showcased a tiny stud pierced directly through her finger on social media. The visible redness and indentation around the piercing suggested its authenticity, prompting a flurry of criticism directed at Kardashian for allowing the unusual modification. Experts quickly pointed to the elevated risk of infection associated with piercings in such a location.
Not to be outdone, Cardi B, 33, recently joined the dermal piercing movement, just a month after welcoming her fourth child. The rapper opted for two diamond studs on the nape of her neck and two more on her lower back. These dermal anchors were reportedly inserted by Robbie Milian, a prominent New York piercing specialist.
Post-Pregnancy Piercings: A Word of Caution
For new mothers considering body modifications, the Association of Professional Piercers advises a minimum three-month waiting period after childbirth. The risks are even greater if piercings are acquired during or before pregnancy.
Dr. Jaclyn Friedman, a Chicago OB-GYN, emphasized the concern over infections like hepatitis B or C and HIV, which can be transmitted through unsanitary needles and potentially passed on to the fetus.
Such infections, Dr. Friedman notes, can lead to serious complications including intrauterine growth restriction, preterm labor, and preterm birth.
Understanding Dermal Piercings and Their Risks
Both North West and Cardi B are believed to be sporting dermal piercings, which involve a microdermal anchor placed beneath the skin’s surface. Healthline warns that these piercings “carry a high risk of complications.”
Key risks include:
- Infection: If the piercing is not performed in a sterile environment or proper aftercare is neglected, bacteria can spread deep within the dermis.
- Dislodgement: If the anchor is not inserted deeply enough, it may become dislodged and migrate to another area of the skin.
- Damage to blood vessels or nerves: Conversely, if the anchor is inserted too deeply, it could cause damage to surrounding blood vessels or nerves.
Dermal piercings typically require one to three months for full healing.
Cardi B’s History with Unique Piercings
This isn’t Cardi B’s first foray into unconventional body jewelry. Earlier this year, the rapper revealed a $13,000 diamond butt crack piercing that met an untimely end “down the toilet.” She also sports a dermal stud beneath her left eye and, in June 2020, documented getting two dermal implants just below her throat.