50 years of sparkle
As Studex marks its golden anniversary, ALEX FOX explores the brand’s five decades at the forefront of piercing services
since its launch in the US in 1976, Studex has grown from a pioneering piercing brand to a global manufacturing leader in piercing systems, earrings, training and aftercare products. Over the past 50 years, Studex has helped shape the professional piercing industry, setting benchmarks for safety, hygiene and innovation, while supporting beauty pros and retailers across the globe. Today, over one billion ears have been pierced using its systems.
Scratch takes a look at the company’s journey, impact on the beauty sector and how piercing continues to create exciting opportunities for salons.
Sparkling successes
A key factor behind Studex’s longevity is its commitment to innovation. Over the past 50 years, the company has consistently evolved its products and services to meet consumer expectations, while maintaining a strong focus on safety, comfort and quality.
One of its most significant developments came in 1996 with the launch of the System 75® Ear Piercing device. Designed to offer a safe, quiet and gentle piercing experience, the system combines a lightweight instrument with a sterilised, single-use, disposable cartridge that delivers both the earring and back with precision and consistency. Today, practitioners can choose from more than 200 earring styles in a range of premium materials, including 18ct, 14ct and 9ct gold; surgical-grade stainless steel; 24ct gold-plated and titanium options.
Studex has also continually advanced its aftercare offering. The introduction of Advanced Aftercare,a hypochlorous-based solution, has helped reduce healing times, so clients can change their jewellery sooner. Alcohol-free, vegan and suitable for all skin types, the formulation has been tested by dermatologists and supports both new piercings and ongoing hygiene.
Beyond its products, Studex is committed to giving back. The annual Studex Golf Day at Greetham Valley has become a much-anticipated event since its inception in 2006, raising money for charitable trust, We Are All Making a Difference. It also brings together customers, partners and friends of the brand.
CEO of Studex UK, Bob Reeve, shares: “Studex has helped shape professional piercing standards through a commitment to safety, quality and education. The company is ISO 9001:2015 certified, with all jewellery regularly tested to meet EU compliance regulations. Its piercing systems are manufactured to FDA medical device standards, for the benefits of precision, hygiene and client safety.
Bob Reeve
“By maintaining full control of its design and manufacturing processes, Studex ensures consistent quality across its product range. Alongside innovation, the company places great importance on training, working closely with HABIA and BABTAC to ensure practitioners are trained to the highest standards. Through its network of regional trainers, Studex provides hands-on support, helping professionals gain confidence in performing piercings and growing the service within their businesses.”
A natural fit for beauty businesses
It’s easy to see why piercing has become such a popular treatment addition to nail and beauty salons. It offers instant results, an opportunity for self-expression and complements existing services perfectly. Piercing allows clients to enhance their looks in a single visit, while aligning with beauty professionals’ expertise in precision, good hygiene and aesthetic design. Studex works alongside pros, providing training to colleges and supporting salons worldwide. Its long-standing presence at major beauty exhibitions reflects the brand’s commitment to education, quality and professional development.
The growing popularity of piercing is also driven by its business benefits. With relatively low start-up costs, strong retail opportunities and a high return on investment, piercing has become an attractive revenue stream for salons. It creates natural opportunities for cross-promotion, with clients often choosing to book a piercing service in conjunction with a nail, brow or skincare treatment.
Children’s ear piercing is particularly valuable in helping businesses build long-term relationships with families. Creating a positive first piercing experience helps establish trust, encourages repeat visits and reinforces a salon’s reputation for professionalism, safety and care. For pros considering introducing piercing to their businesses, Studex provides continual support – from guidance on licensing and insurance requirements to advice on piercing station setups, training and marketing.
Investing in education
Through its HABIA-endorsed programme, Studex equips professionals with the skills, knowledge and confidence required to deliver safe and successful piercing services. The company’s regional trainers provide hands-on instruction across its piercing systems, including System 75® Ear Piercing, Medisept Nose Piercing and Plus Ear Piercing. Delivered in-person and on-site, the training combines practical experience with best practice guidance.
A legacy built on trust
As Studex celebrates its 50th anniversary, the brand reflects on its greatest achievement: the relationships it has built along the way. The brand has earned the trust of retailers, independent piercing partners and beauty professionals through a commitment to exceptional customer service, education and ongoing support. Today, it stands as a global leader in professional piercing, and enters its next chapter with the same commitment that has defined the company for the past 50 years: helping professionals deliver safe, stylish, memorable and profitable piercing experiences.
Reader offer
Save 20% when you purchase a Studex System 75® Ear Piercing Kit and receive a free Super Star Marketing Pack, which includes training and a full kit. Quote SCRATCH SUMMER when calling to purchase. *Valid until 31 August 2026.
CASE STUDY
Aimee Johnson of Revive salon in Handbridge, Chester
@revivehandbridge
Aimee Johnson (left) with Revive owner, Stacey Reid.
Aimee Johnson trained to offer Studex ear piercing more than 22 years ago, and it is one of the most popular services in her salon. She credits part of that success to the wide selection of Studex earrings available, which appeal to clients of all ages.
Over the years, Aimee has built a strong local reputation, particularly for children’s ear piercing. Her children’s packages are designed to create a positive and memorable piercing experience, with each child receiving a Studex teddy bear to hold during their treatment, along with a certificate, balloon and aftercare calendar.
Aimee also welcomes a growing number of adults seeking second piercings and additional ear styling. For the pro, piercing is a valuable driver of footfall and revenue. “Many clients find Revive through the Studex register of approved salons and visit specifically for piercing,” she explains. “Once they experience our welcoming atmosphere, many go on to book other treatments.
“I was originally trained by Sharon from Studex 22 years ago, and she still visits the salon to update me on products, trends and techniques,” Aimee continues. “The support from Studex has been exceptional. If I ever have a question, I know I can contact the team and receive advice quickly.”
CASE STUDY
Sophie Haynes of Vxie salon in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire
@vxie.beauty
Sophie Haynes (left) with Vxie salon manager, Becky.
Adding Studex piercing to her treatment menu in 2021 has proved to be a smart business move for Sophie Haynes. “Piercing is a fantastic addition to our salon services and has had a significant impact on both footfall and revenue,” she says. “Many clients visit us for a piercing, then return for other treatments.”
Having pierced ears for more than 15 years, Sophie was delighted to upgrade her training with Studex, enabling her to offer its gentle piercing system alongside nose piercing. The company’s extensive jewellery collection has proved popular, with clients praising the choice of designs, metals and post sizes. To make each experience more memorable, Vxie offers Studex certificates, stickers and teddy bears.
The salon has seen a noticeable increase in business from families and teenagers, especially during school holidays. “We often joke that we could become a piercing shop during the summer,” Sophie laughs.
The beauty pro values her partnership with Studex. “The support has been exceptional,” she reveals. “The team regularly checks in, shares advice and is always available to offer support.”