skin. Just like the micro dermal piercing, there are two methods to this process. One includes the use of a needle, and the other utilizes a scalpel. With a needle, the surface piercing of the hip is done just like any other place on the body such as a nose piercing, or ear piercing. Pinching the skin together allows for a quick puncture through the skin on the hip. This process is less popular because of the higher rejection rate due to the jewelry being less optimal than the dermal jewelry. The second procedure, using a scalpel, creates a pocket under your skin for the jewelry to reside. This process will reduce stress on the piercing and has a lower rejection rate. Treatment This piercing typically heals in one to three months, depending on the person’s body. The best way to take care of your piercing is to be extremely careful and do your best in cleaning the area during the healing process. To protect against infection, antibacterial soap is the best way to keep clean. Make sure to not only clean the pierced area itself, but cleaning your hands before touching the piercing is equally important. The most convenient way to wash the piercing is in the shower so the water can run on it, however, never use a loofah or washcloth as those tend to harbor bacteria. Sea salt is recommended by some, but not others. Contact the person who did your piercing to hear their suggestions based on their choice of jewelry. Things to be avoided during the healing process include pools, the sea, dirty clothes, changing the jewelry for at least three weeks, and touching the area with dirty hands. Risks The biggest risk that comes with a hip piercing is rejection or piercing migration. This is a result of your body recognizing a foreign object and pushing it out. Rejection rates vary depending on the person’s skin, the activities a person partakes in that may create tension in that area, and the jewelry or procedure used. Sitting down for a consultation with a professional piercer is highly recommended before this type of piercing. Another risk includes tissue damage, which is the damaging of blood vessels or nerves in the dermis or dermal layer. This is more likely to happen when the piercing is done by someone who is not a professional. If the piercing is