Why 316L Surgical Steel is a Great Choice for Piercing Jewelry

When it comes to body jewelry, choosing the right material is more than just a style decision — it’s about safety, durability, and long-term comfort. At Somera Piercings, we take pride in offering jewelry made from the highest quality materials. One of the most trusted and widely recommended options in the piercing world is 316L surgical steel.

In this article, we’ll break down what makes surgical steel 316L such a popular choice and why it's ideal for piercing jewelry.

What Is 316L Surgical Steel?

316L surgical steel is a low-carbon version of 316 stainless steel, a metal alloy that includes:

• Iron
• Chromium
• Nickel
• Molybdenum

The “L” stands for low carbon, which helps prevent corrosion and improves its biocompatibility — making it safer for long-term wear in piercings. It's the same grade of steel often used in medical implants and surgical tools.

Benefits of Surgical Steel 316L for Piercings

1. Hypoallergenic Properties

Although it contains nickel, 316L surgical steel is processed in a way that makes the nickel chemically bound, drastically reducing the chance of skin irritation or allergic reaction. It’s safe for most skin types, especially once piercings are healed.

• ✅ Ideal for healed piercings
• ❌ Not recommended for initial piercings in people with severe nickel sensitivity

2. Corrosion & Tarnish Resistance

Unlike cheaper metals, 316L surgical steel resists rust, corrosion, and tarnishing — even when exposed to moisture, sweat, or skincare products. That means your piercing jewelry stays clean, shiny, and safe over time.

3. Durability

Surgical steel is strong and long-lasting. It won't easily bend, chip, or break, making it a reliable material for everyday jewelry, especially in high-friction piercings like navel, ears, or cartilage.

4. Smooth Surface Finish

The highly polished finish of 316L steel not only gives it a luxurious shine but also prevents bacteria buildup, which is critical for maintaining healthy piercings.

Common Types of Piercing Jewelry Made with 316L Surgical Steel

At Somera Piercings, we offer a wide range of 316L surgical steel jewelry, including:

• Hoops & clickers for ears, nose, and cartilage
• Barbells for tongue, nipple, and industrial piercings
• Flat backs for tragus and helix piercings
• Dangle and gem belly rings
• Threadless ends and push pins

Whether you're looking for minimalist designs or crystal-embellished pieces, 316L surgical steel provides the perfect balance of beauty and durability.

Is Surgical Steel 316L Good for New Piercings?

While 316L surgical steel is safe for many people, it’s typically recommended for healed piercings, especially if you have sensitive skin or a history of metal allergies.

For initial piercings, titanium jewelry is often the safest hypoallergenic option because it contains no nickel at all. You can explore our collection of implant-grade titanium jewelry.

How to Care for 316L Surgical Steel Jewelry

To keep your jewelry in top condition:

• Clean regularly with saline or gentle soap and water
• Avoid harsh chemicals or soaking in alcohol
• Store in a dry, clean jewelry box when not in use

With proper care, surgical steel jewelry can last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for stylish, durable, and body-safe jewelry, surgical steel 316L is one of the best materials available for healed piercings. At Somera Piercings, all our 316L steel pieces are selected for their high quality, safe composition, and modern designs — so you can feel confident and comfortable in your jewelry every day.

Shop Surgical Steel Piercing Jewelry

Browse our 316L surgical steel collection