Navel Piercing Guide UK

Navel Piercing: Healing, Aftercare and What to Expect in the UK

Few piercings have the same iconic status as the navel piercing. Popularised in the ‘90s and 2000s, it’s never really gone out of style. With its ability to be both playful and elegant, the belly button piercing has remained one of the most requested piercings in the UK—especially for those looking to enhance their midriff or add a subtle touch of body jewellery.

Despite its aesthetic appeal, the navel piercing does come with its own unique healing requirements. If you’re considering one for summer, festival season or just because you love the look, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from the procedure and healing stages to aftercare, cost and risks.

What Is a Navel Piercing?

A navel piercing is a surface piercing that passes through the skin around the belly button, most commonly placed at the upper rim where the skin folds naturally. This allows the jewellery to dangle or sit neatly above the navel.

While the classic placement is at the top, lower navel piercings, side piercings or even double or inverse styles are also possible, depending on your anatomy. The most common starter jewellery is a curved barbell, often with a gem or decorative feature on each end.

Unlike earlobe piercings which pass straight through, the navel piercing relies on a flap of skin holding the jewellery in place, meaning it’s more prone to pressure and movement—which affects healing and risk of rejection.

The Piercing Process

After a short consultation in a licensed UK studio, your piercer will assess your anatomy to make sure the area is suitable for piercing. Not everyone is a candidate for a navel piercing—things like deep-set navels, skin tension and posture can affect placement.

Once you’re ready, the skin is cleaned and marked. You'll lie back, and the area is pierced using a sterile, single-use needle. The process is quick—usually no more than a few seconds of discomfort followed by the insertion of the curved barbell.

The jewellery is typically made from implant-grade titanium to minimise allergic reactions and promote healing. You’ll be given full aftercare instructions and usually advised not to change the jewellery for several months.

Does It Hurt?

Most people describe a naval piercing as mild to moderate on the pain scale. It’s more of a pinch than a stab, followed by a tight pulling sensation as the jewellery is inserted.

It’s a fleshy area with fewer nerve endings than, say, a nostril or cartilage, so while there is discomfort, it’s usually very manageable. Expect some tenderness, redness and swelling for a few days afterwards, especially when bending or sitting.

Healing Time and What to Expect

Navel piercings are not quick healers. On average, they take 3 to 6 months to heal—but for some people, especially those with more sensitive skin or active lifestyles, it can take up to a year.

Early healing involves swelling, minor redness and clear lymph fluid that can form small crusts. These are normal and shouldn’t be confused with infection. The area may feel tight when you move or stretch, and sleeping on your front can be uncomfortable at first.

Because this is a surface piercing, it’s important to avoid snagging, pressure or friction. Low-rise trousers, belts, and certain sports like yoga or dance can all put strain on the piercing, potentially leading to irritation or rejection.

Aftercare for a Navel Piercing

The key to a smooth healing process is consistency and care. Clean the area twice a day using sterile saline solution—never alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or harsh antiseptics. Soak a sterile pad or compress and gently apply it to the piercing, allowing crusts to soften and fall away.

Avoid touching the jewellery, twisting it, or removing it prematurely. Hands should always be clean before caring for the area.

During healing, avoid tight clothing over the piercing and refrain from swimming in pools, hot tubs or lakes to prevent bacteria exposure. Showering is fine—just rinse the area thoroughly and pat it dry with clean paper towel or gauze.

Sleeping on your front, wearing tight waistbands or intense core workouts should be limited during the first few months.

Cost of a Navel Piercing in the UK

In the UK, a standard navel piercing usually costs between £30 and £50, depending on the studio, the materials used and the level of experience of your piercer. This typically includes a consultation, sterile procedure, implant-grade jewellery and aftercare advice.

Studios may offer upgrade options for gold, jewelled or custom bars at an additional cost. Avoid cheap deals that seem too good to be true—quality materials and hygiene should never be compromised.

Risks and What to Watch For

Because the navel is a surface piercing with a high degree of movement, rejection and migration are more common than with other piercings. The skin may push the jewellery out over time, especially if the piercing is shallow or under constant tension.

Infection is another concern. Signs include excessive swelling, redness, heat, pus-like discharge and increasing pain. If symptoms worsen or you develop a fever, consult a piercer or GP straight away.

Scarring can happen if the piercing is removed before it fully heals, or if the skin becomes irritated and inflamed. Letting it heal completely before removing or changing jewellery helps reduce this risk.

Is a Navel Piercing Right for You?

Navel piercings can look stunning, but they’re not ideal for everyone. If you have a deep-set navel, tight or flat skin around the belly button, or frequent movement at the waist due to fitness or your job, the piercing may be more difficult to heal or at risk of rejection.

Good hygiene, patience and a commitment to aftercare are essential. If you plan to wear crop tops or show your stomach often, a healed navel piercing can be a beautiful centrepiece. If you’re unsure about suitability, a consultation with a professional piercer is always recommended.

UK Studio Standards

A reputable UK studio will be licensed, clean and professional. Your piercer should use sterile, single-use needles and implant-grade jewellery, explain the process clearly, and provide written aftercare instructions.

Look for a studio with a good reputation, visible hygiene practices and experienced staff. If you feel rushed, pressured or uncomfortable, it’s okay to walk away and find a better environment.

Navel Piercing FAQs

Can I change the jewellery quickly? No. Wait at least 3 to 6 months or until the piercing is fully healed before changing jewellery. Doing it too soon can cause irritation or infection.

Can I get a belly button piercing while pregnant? No. Piercing during pregnancy isn’t advised due to changes in skin tension, healing ability and infection risk. If you're already pierced, speak to your midwife about wearing a flexible retainer.

Will it leave a scar if removed? Likely a small one. Most navel piercings leave behind a small indent or mark, especially if removed before full healing or rejected.

Can I go swimming after getting pierced? Avoid swimming for at least 4 to 6 weeks, as exposure to chlorinated or natural water can lead to infection.

Can everyone get a navel piercing? Not necessarily. Some navels do not have enough overhang or suitable anatomy for a safe, long-lasting piercing. A professional piercer will be able to assess this.

Final Thoughts

A navel piercing is a stylish and expressive body modification that, when done properly, can enhance your confidence and aesthetic. While it requires a bit of patience and care during healing, the end result is often well worth the wait.

Make sure you choose a reputable UK studio, follow aftercare to the letter, and give your body time to do its thing. With the right preparation and care, your belly button piercing can be a dazzling addition to your personal style for years to come.