Eyebrow Piercing: Pain, Placement & Rejection

Eyebrow piercing is a type of body modification and involves puncturing the skin near the eyebrow. Many factors influence the decision, including pain tolerance and the potential for eyebrow piercing rejection. Placement options include vertical eyebrow piercing and horizontal eyebrow piercing, each with different aesthetic results.

Alright, let’s talk about something that’s been gracing faces and turning heads for quite a while now: eyebrow piercings! You see them on celebrities, on your cool friends, and maybe you’ve even considered getting one yourself. Eyebrow piercings aren’t just a flash-in-the-pan fad; they’re a legitimate form of body modification and a way to shout out your unique personality without saying a word.

Think of it like this: our ancestors used body modifications to signify status, belonging, or simply because it looked awesome! While we’ve come a long way from ancient rituals, the desire to express ourselves through our bodies hasn’t faded. Eyebrow piercings today are riding the wave of self-expression, individuality, and, let’s be honest, because they look pretty darn cool. From the edgy vertical eyebrow piercing to the subtle horizontal style, there’s a piercing to match every vibe.

But hold up, before you rush off to the nearest piercing studio, let’s pump the brakes for a sec. Getting an eyebrow piercing is more than just a spur-of-the-moment decision. It’s like adopting a tiny, metal pet that requires your love, attention, and proper care. That’s why it’s crucial to understand what you’re getting into. We’re talking about the procedure itself, the potential risks involved, and the all-important aftercare routine that will determine whether your piercing thrives or dives. So, buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a journey into the world of eyebrow piercings, where knowledge is your best accessory!

Eyebrow Anatomy & Piercing Placement: It’s More Than Just a Hole!

Okay, let’s talk eyebrows! We all love a perfectly arched brow, but when it comes to sticking a needle through one, things get a little more…intense. Trust me, knowing what’s going on underneath that furry little caterpillar can make all the difference between a killer piercing and a total disaster. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t build a house on quicksand, right? Same goes for your eyebrow piercing!

Skin Deep (Literally!)

Your eyebrow area isn’t just one uniform slab of skin. Nope! It’s made up of layers, each with its own sensitivity level. The epidermis is the outermost layer, the one you see every day. Then comes the dermis, the thicker layer containing things like hair follicles and sweat glands. Knowing this helps you understand why some spots on your brow might be more sensitive than others. A good piercer knows how to navigate these layers like a pro, minimizing pain and maximizing healing.

Nerve Central: Avoid the Tingles (and Worse!)

Here’s where things get serious. Your face is a highway of nerves and blood vessels, and guess what? Some of those major routes run right through your eyebrow area! Improper placement can lead to some seriously unpleasant complications, like nerve damage. Imagine a permanent tingle or numbness – not exactly the look you were going for, right? That’s why you need a piercer who knows their anatomy.

The Supraorbital Notch/Foramen: Steer Clear!

This is a fancy term for a small opening (either a notch or a complete hole) in the bone above your eye socket where major nerves and blood vessels exit. Basically, it’s a danger zone. A skilled piercer knows exactly where this is and will avoid it like the plague. Trust me, you don’t want a needle anywhere near that thing.

Placement is Key: Location, Location, Location!

So, why is proper placement so crucial? A few reasons:

• Healing: A well-placed piercing is much more likely to heal quickly and smoothly.
• Aesthetics: Let’s be honest, you want it to look good! The right placement can complement your face shape and enhance your overall look.
• Rejection & Migration: This is when your body decides it doesn’t like the jewelry and starts pushing it out. Poor placement is a major cause of rejection and migration, which can lead to scarring and disappointment.

In short, don’t just let anyone stick a needle in your eyebrow! Do your research, find a reputable piercer who knows their anatomy, and make sure they prioritize proper placement. Your eyebrows (and your face!) will thank you for it.

The Piercing Procedure: What to Expect

Okay, so you’re ready to take the plunge and get your eyebrow pierced? Awesome! But before you jump into the chair, let’s talk about what actually goes down during the piercing procedure. Knowing what to expect can seriously help ease those pre-piercing jitters. Trust me, a little knowledge goes a long way!

The steps involved in getting an eyebrow piercing is more than just the needle going through. First, it starts with a visit to your favorite piercing studio. You will be seated or laid down into a comfortable position before the process begins. And next, before any actual piercing happens, your piercer will prep the area. They will thoroughly clean and disinfect your eyebrow area, usually with an antiseptic solution like iodine or chlorhexidine. This is super important to minimize the risk of infection.

Piercing Needles and Other Piercing Tools: A Piercer’s Arsenal

Let’s talk tools of the trade! Professional piercers use hollow needles, specifically designed for body piercing. These needles are sterile, single-use only, and come in various gauges (thicknesses) to match the jewelry you’ve chosen. Forget those piercing guns you might have seen at the mall – those are a big no-no! Needles are way more precise and cause less trauma to the tissue. Other tools you might spot include:

• Forceps or Clamps: Used to gently hold the skin in place.
• Marking Pen: For marking the entry and exit points.
• Sterile Gauze: For cleaning and blotting.
• Receiving Tube: to capture piercing slug.
• Jewelry: of course!

Sterilization Techniques: Keeping it Clean!

This is non-negotiable. A reputable piercer will always use sterilized equipment. This usually involves an autoclave, a medical-grade device that uses high pressure and steam to kill all bacteria and viruses. The piercer should also wear fresh gloves and use disposable supplies whenever possible. Don’t be afraid to ask about their sterilization procedures – your health is on the line!

The Piercing Process: Step-by-Step

Alright, here’s the nitty-gritty:

1. Marking: The piercer will use a sterile marking pen to mark the exact spots where the needle will enter and exit your eyebrow. They will consider your eyebrow shape, anatomy, and desired jewelry placement to ensure a perfect fit. This is your chance to double-check and make sure you’re happy with the placement.
2. Clamping (Optional): Some piercers use forceps or clamps to gently hold the skin taut. This can help with precision and minimize discomfort.
3. The Piercing: Take a deep breath! The piercer will quickly and smoothly push the sterile needle through the marked points. It’s a quick pinch, but it’s over before you know it.
4. Jewelry Insertion: Immediately after the needle goes through, the piercer will insert the sterile jewelry into the piercing.
5. Cleaning: They’ll clean the area again with sterile gauze and provide you with aftercare instructions.

Pain Management: Keeping Calm and Carrying On

Let’s be real – getting pierced isn’t exactly a walk in the park. But the pain is usually quick and manageable. Everyone experiences pain differently, but most people describe it as a sharp pinch or pressure. Here are some pain management techniques to help you through it:

• Breathing Exercises: Deep, slow breaths can help you relax and focus.
• Distraction: Chat with your piercer, listen to music, or focus on something else entirely.
• Visualization: Imagine yourself on a beach or in your happy place.
• Topical Anesthetic: Some piercers offer topical numbing creams but discuss this beforehand as not all piercers use topical numbing.

Risks and Complications: What Could Go Wrong?

Okay, let’s get real. Eyebrow piercings can be super cool, but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Like any body modification, there are some potential hiccups along the way. Ignoring these risks is like driving a car without insurance – you might be fine, but if things go south, you’ll wish you were prepared. So, let’s dive into what could go wrong and how to dodge those bullets!

Common Risks: The Usual Suspects

• Infection: This is probably the biggest fear for most people, and rightfully so! Think of it like this: you’re creating a tiny wound, and wounds can get infected. Causes? Dirty hands touching the piercing, non-sterile equipment used by the piercer (yikes!), or just plain old forgetting to clean it properly. Symptoms? Redness, swelling, pain, and, the tell-tale sign, pus. Prevention is key, my friends! Proper aftercare (more on that later!) and making sure your piercer uses sterile equipment are non-negotiable. If you suspect an infection, don’t play doctor – see a medical professional!

• Scar Tissue and Keloids: Scarring can happen with any piercing, but some people are more prone to it than others. Scar tissue is just the body’s way of patching things up. Keloids, on the other hand, are like scar tissue’s overzealous cousin – raised, thick, and sometimes itchy. Prevention? Avoid irritating the piercing! No fiddling, no snagging on clothes, and definitely no picking. Management? If keloids do pop up, options include silicone sheets (they help flatten the scar), steroid injections (to reduce inflammation), or, in more extreme cases, surgical removal.

• Nerve Damage: This one sounds scary, and it can be. The eyebrow area is close to some important facial nerves. If a piercer isn’t careful (or just plain inexperienced), they could potentially nick a nerve. Long-term effects might include numbness, tingling, or even chronic pain. Minimizing the risk? Simple: go to a reputable, experienced piercer who knows their anatomy! Seriously, don’t skimp on this one.

• Rejection: Think of your body as a bouncer at a club. Sometimes, it just doesn’t want certain things hanging around. Rejection happens when your body starts pushing the jewelry out, treating it like a foreign object. Signs? The skin thinning around the piercing and the jewelry becoming more visible. Causes? Poor placement, an allergic reaction to the jewelry, or just plain bad luck. What to do? If you suspect rejection, see your piercer ASAP. They might be able to salvage it, but sometimes removal is the only option.

Other Potential Complications: The Unexpected Guests

• Allergic Reactions: Nickel is a common culprit here. Many cheaper jewelry options contain nickel, and if you’re sensitive to it, you’ll end up with an itchy, red rash. The solution? Opt for hypoallergenic materials like surgical steel or, even better, titanium. Your skin will thank you.

• Migration: Imagine your piercing deciding to take a little vacation… across your eyebrow. Migration is when the piercing moves from its original location. This can cause asymmetry and increase the risk of rejection. Again, proper placement by a skilled piercer is key to preventing this.

• Bleeding and Hematoma: Some bleeding is normal during the piercing process. However, excessive bleeding or the formation of a hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin) can be problematic. Avoid blood thinners (like aspirin) before getting pierced, and if you do experience bleeding, apply pressure to the area.

When to Call in the Pros: Doctors and Dermatologists to the Rescue

While piercers are awesome for the piercing itself, some issues require medical attention. If you experience signs of severe infection (high fever, spreading redness, throbbing pain), suspect nerve damage, or have a reaction that doesn’t clear up with basic aftercare, see a doctor or dermatologist ASAP. Seriously, don’t wait – it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Jewelry Selection: Style and Safety

Okay, you’ve braved the needle (or are seriously thinking about it), and now it’s time to bedazzle that new eyebrow piercing! But hold your horses, sparkle-lover – choosing the right jewelry is way more than just picking something pretty. It’s about safety, healing, and avoiding a piercing mishap that’ll make you wish you’d stuck to clip-on earrings.

Types of Jewelry: A Shiny Breakdown

Let’s dive into the shiny world of eyebrow jewelry! You’ve got options, but some are definitely better than others, especially when you’re fresh out of the piercing chair:

• Curved Barbells: These are your BFFs for initial piercings. Their gentle curve sits comfortably along the eyebrow contour, promoting proper healing. Think of them as the supportive yoga pants of the piercing world.

• Captive Bead Rings: These are what you use after you’ve had your piercing for a while! Once you’re fully healed, these babies can add a touch of flair.

• Hoops: Look, hoops are cute, but they’re eyebrow-piercing no-nos during the initial healing phase. They move around too much, irritating the piercing and increasing the risk of migration – which is basically your piercing trying to escape your face.

• Studs: While studs might work for nose or ear piercings, they aren’t a common choice for eyebrow piercings.

Material Matters: Not All That Glitters Is Gold (or Safe)

When it comes to jewelry materials, you’ve got options, but it’s essential to choose wisely. Your skin will thank you!

• Surgical Steel: A Reliable Classic. It’s affordable, hypoallergenic, and generally well-tolerated. It’s like the reliable hatchback of the jewelry world – not flashy, but gets the job done.

• Titanium: The Sensitive Skin Savior. Got sensitive skin or a nickel allergy? Titanium is your go-to. It’s biocompatible, lightweight, and virtually nickel-free.

• Gold: Go for the Good Stuff! If you’re dreaming of gold, make sure it’s 14k or higher. Anything less can contain alloys that cause allergic reactions. Don’t cheap out on gold.

Size Does Matter: Getting the Perfect Fit

Jewelry size isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s crucial for comfort and healing.

• Gauge: Think of it as the thickness of your jewelry. Eyebrow piercings typically rock a 16G or 14G. Your piercer will determine the best gauge for your anatomy.

• Diameter/Length: Too snug and it’ll be uncomfortable; too long and it might catch on everything. It’s all about finding that sweet spot.

• Threading: Internal vs. External. Internal threading (where the screw is inside the jewelry) is generally more comfortable and reduces the risk of irritation during insertion. External threading, well, is the opposite. Ouch.

Where to Shop: Finding the Real Deal

Not all jewelry is created equal. Steer clear of dodgy online retailers and head to reputable jewelry suppliers who prioritize quality and sterilization. Ask your piercer for recommendations – they’re the experts!

Aftercare: The Key to Successful Healing

So, you’ve braved the needle and now you’re rocking a shiny new eyebrow piercing! Congratulations! But the journey doesn’t end there, my friend. In fact, this is where the real commitment begins. Think of it like adopting a cute puppy – it’s exciting at first, but you gotta feed it, walk it, and clean up after it, or things will get messy, fast. For your piercing, “messy” translates to infection, rejection, and a whole lot of regret. Lucky for you, piercing aftercare is a lot less work than a puppy.

The secret sauce to a happy, healthy eyebrow piercing is diligent aftercare. We’re talking religious devotion here, folks. But don’t worry, it’s not that hard. We’re here to guide you through it all.

Detailed Aftercare Instructions

Think of aftercare as your piercing’s personal bodyguard – protecting it from the nasty world of bacteria and irritation. Here’s the drill:

1. Wash your hands! This is step one, every single time. Dirty hands are the enemy. Pretend you’re a surgeon scrubbing in for the most important operation of your life (because, in a way, you are!).
2. Cleanse Gently: Use your chosen cleaning solution (more on that below) to gently clean around the piercing site. Avoid harsh scrubbing or twisting the jewelry unnecessarily – be kind to your skin!
3. Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Cloth towels can harbor bacteria, so let’s keep things squeaky clean.

Choosing Your Cleaning Solution

The market is full of different cleaning solutions for new piercings. Let’s get into it:

• Saline Solution: This is liquid gold. You can buy a pre-made sterile saline solution (easy peasy!) or make your own by mixing sea salt with distilled water. Just make sure you get the ratio right.
• Avoid the Naysayers: Stay away from harsh chemicals like alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and antibacterial soaps. These can irritate the piercing and slow down the healing process.

What to Expect During the Healing Time

Patience, young padawan. Healing takes time. Eyebrow piercings typically need around 6-8 weeks to fully heal.

• During this period, you might experience some redness, swelling, and slight tenderness. That’s normal.
• What’s not normal is excessive redness, swelling, pus, or throbbing pain. Those are signs of infection, and you should seek help from a healthcare professional immediately.
• Signs of proper healing include a gradual reduction in redness and swelling, no discharge, and a feeling of the piercing becoming more comfortable over time.

Commitment to Aftercare

It’s a marathon, not a sprint! Consistency is key.

• Cleaning Routine: Aim to clean your piercing twice a day – once in the morning and once at night.
• Hands Off!: Resist the urge to touch, twist, or play with your piercing. Your fingers carry all sorts of germs.
• Protect Your Precious: Be mindful of activities that could irritate your piercing. Avoid wearing makeup or hair products near the piercing site. Be careful when playing sports or sleeping.

Personal Hygiene

Your body is a temple, and your piercing is a sacred part of it. Treat it with respect!

• Cleanliness is Key: Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the piercing, even if you’re just itching it.
• Personal Space: Don’t share towels or washcloths with anyone while your piercing is healing.

By following these simple yet crucial aftercare instructions, you’ll be well on your way to a beautifully healed eyebrow piercing that you can flaunt with pride! Remember, a little dedication goes a long way in keeping your piercing happy, healthy, and looking fabulous.

Legal and Ethical Considerations: Know Your Rights!

Okay, so you’re thinking about joining the eyebrow piercing club? Awesome! But before you jump in, let’s chat about the not-so-glamorous, but super important stuff: your rights and the legalities of it all. No one wants to end up on the wrong side of the law, or worse, with a botched piercing because someone skipped a few crucial steps. So, let’s get down to business.

Are You Old Enough? Age Restrictions and Parental Consent

First things first, how old are you? Seriously! Because in a lot of places, there are age restrictions when it comes to body modifications like piercings. Think of it like this: it’s kinda like trying to buy a lottery ticket before you’re 18 – ain’t gonna happen (usually)!

• Age restrictions vary widely depending on where you live. Some regions might allow piercings at 16 with parental consent, while others require you to be a full-fledged adult (18+) to get pierced without mom or dad’s okay. Do a little digging online or call up your local piercing shop to find out the rules in your area.
• Parental consent is a big deal if you’re under the legal age. It basically means you need a parent or legal guardian to sign off on your piercing. They’ll likely need to be present at the studio and show some form of ID to prove they’re actually your parent.

Licensed and Legit: Choosing the Right Piercer

Imagine getting a tattoo from a guy in a dimly lit basement who claims to be an artist. Sounds sketchy, right? The same goes for piercings! You want to make sure you’re going to a licensed and reputable piercer who knows their stuff.

• Licensed Piercers are the real deal. They’ve gone through the necessary training, passed inspections, and are certified to poke holes in people safely and hygienically. Check your local state, county, or city health department to verify if they’re licensed.
• Piercing Studios should be clean, well-lit, and professional. Look for things like autoclaves (fancy sterilization machines), disposable needles, and staff who are knowledgeable and friendly. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! A good piercer will be happy to explain their process and address any concerns you have.
• Health Regulations are there for a reason! Licensed studios are regularly inspected to make sure they’re following strict hygiene and safety protocols. This helps prevent the spread of infections and other nasty stuff.

Informed Consent: Know Before You Go

Before you get that needle anywhere near your eyebrow, you’ll need to sign a consent form. This isn’t just some formality – it’s your chance to make sure you understand exactly what you’re getting into!

• Understanding the Risks is crucial. The consent form will outline the potential risks associated with eyebrow piercings, such as infection, rejection, nerve damage, and scarring. Read it carefully and don’t hesitate to ask questions about anything you don’t understand.
• Responsibilities aren’t just on the piercer! You’re responsible for following the aftercare instructions diligently. This means cleaning your piercing regularly, avoiding touching it with dirty hands, and protecting it from trauma.
• Aftercare Requirements are non-negotiable. If you’re not willing to commit to the aftercare routine, an eyebrow piercing might not be for you. Proper aftercare is essential for preventing complications and ensuring your piercing heals properly.

In a nutshell, getting an eyebrow piercing is a fun way to express yourself, but it’s important to do your homework and make sure you’re doing it safely and legally. So, get informed, choose wisely, and enjoy your new bling!

Social and Personal Aspects: Express Yourself Responsibly

• Body Modification and Personal Expression: More Than Just a Piercing

  • Delve deeper into the psychology of choosing an eyebrow piercing: Is it a statement? A rebellion? A confidence booster?
  • Discuss how piercings can be a way to reclaim one’s body and express individuality.
  • Mention the connection between body art and self-esteem.
  • Encourage readers to explore their motivations and intentions behind getting an eyebrow piercing.

• Navigating Social Stigma: It’s Your Body, But…

  • Acknowledge that eyebrow piercings, while more accepted now, can still carry a stigma in certain social circles.
  • Discuss strategies for dealing with unwanted attention or negative comments from family, friends, or strangers.
  • Emphasize the importance of self-confidence and owning your choices.
  • Offer tips for educating others about body modification and dispelling misconceptions.

• Workplace Professionalism: Can You Rock the Piercing and the Job?

  • Address the elephant in the room: How an eyebrow piercing might affect your job prospects or current employment.
  • Explore different workplace cultures and their attitudes towards body modifications.
  • Offer advice on researching company policies and dress codes.
  • Discuss the option of temporary retainers or subtle jewelry for more conservative environments.
  • Highlight fields where body modifications are more accepted or even embraced.

• Choosing Jewelry for Professional Settings: Subtlety Is Key

  • Provide specific recommendations for jewelry styles that are discreet and professional:
    • Smaller gauge barbells.
    • Simple, unadorned designs.
    • Neutral-colored metals (surgical steel, titanium).
  • Suggest opting for curved barbells or small captive bead rings.
  • Discourage flashy or distracting jewelry (e.g., dangling charms, large gemstones).
  • Suggest checking your jewelry daily to prevent it from moving.

• Confidence Is Your Best Accessory: Rocking the Piercing, Inside and Out

  • Emphasize that ultimately, confidence and professionalism are what truly matter in any setting.
  • Encourage readers to embrace their individuality while still respecting the values and expectations of their community and workplace.
  • Encourage readers to check their eyebrow piercing’s placement as this can affect the look of the individual’s face.
  • Remind readers to always maintain proper hygiene and keep the piercing clean and well-maintained, as a poorly cared-for piercing can reflect negatively on one’s image.

Financial Considerations: Budgeting for Your Eyebrow Bling 💰

Alright, let’s talk money! Getting an eyebrow piercing isn’t just a spontaneous decision; it’s also a financial one. You want to make sure you’re not breaking the bank for that sweet, sweet eyebrow sparkle. So, how much does this all actually cost?

The Initial Damage: Piercing Fee + Jewelry 💸

First up, you’ve got the initial piercing fee. This is what the piercer charges for their expertise, sterile environment, and, well, actually sticking a needle through your face (in a good way!). Prices can vary wildly depending on where you are, the reputation of the studio, and the piercer’s experience. You might find some places offering super cheap piercings, but remember: you often get what you pay for. Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to your health and safety!

Then there’s the cost of jewelry. This can also vary. The basic jewelry that the piercer uses initially is usually included in the piercing fee, but if you have your heart set on something fancier right off the bat like, say, titanium or gold, you’ll need to shell out some extra dough. Different materials come with different price tags, and it’s worth considering your options if you have allergies or sensitive skin.

Aftercare Essentials: Saline Solution and Sanity 💧

Don’t forget the aftercare goodies! This isn’t a one-and-done thing. You will need to keep your new piercing squeaky clean with saline solution for a couple of months. You can buy pre-made saline spray (super convenient) or make your own using sterile water and non-iodized sea salt (budget-friendly, but requires a bit more effort). While saline solution may be a drop in the bucket compared to the initial piercing fee, consider this ongoing expense when budgeting for your new bling.

So, do your research, compare prices, and factor in those aftercare costs. Your eyebrow piercing is an investment in yourself, but it’s always good to be financially prepared! 🤓

Troubleshooting and Removal: What To Do If Things Go Wrong

Okay, so you’ve got your eyebrow piercing, and it’s looking fierce. But what happens when things decide to take a turn for the not-so-fabulous? Don’t panic! Let’s troubleshoot some common hiccups and figure out how to handle them like the total rockstar you are.

First things first, keep an eye out for redness, excessive swelling, or discharge that isn’t clear or yellowish. These could be signs of an infection brewing. If you catch it early, stepping up your aftercare routine with extra saline soaks might do the trick. However, if things get worse—think throbbing pain, fever, or pus—it’s time to holler at your doctor or dermatologist. They’re the pros who can prescribe antibiotics and get you back on the path to piercing paradise.

Another common woe? That pesky piercing bump. These little guys can pop up due to irritation from things like touching the piercing too much, sleeping on it, or using harsh cleaning products. Resist the urge to pick at it! Instead, stick to your saline soaks and try to eliminate whatever’s causing the irritation.

Now, let’s talk about the dreaded R-word: Rejection. If you notice your piercing gradually moving towards the surface of your skin, with the skin thinning around the jewelry, that’s a major red flag. Your body is basically saying, “Nope, not a fan.” If rejection is happening, it’s best to remove the jewelry sooner rather than later to minimize scarring.

Saying Goodbye: Safe Removal

So, you’ve decided it’s time to bid adieu to your eyebrow piercing. Whether it’s due to rejection, migration, or you’re just ready for a change, removal needs to be done right. Don’t try to yank it out yourself! Seriously, leave this to the professionals. A qualified piercer can safely remove the jewelry with sterile tools and minimize the risk of scarring or infection.

Once the jewelry is out, the aftercare doesn’t stop there! Treat the area like a fresh piercing for at least a few weeks. Keep it clean with saline soaks, and avoid touching it with dirty hands. This will help the hole heal properly and prevent any lingering issues.

And there you have it! With a little know-how and prompt action, you can tackle any eyebrow piercing problems like a seasoned pro. Stay safe, stay stylish, and remember, a little TLC goes a long way!

So, should you get an eyebrow piercing? Ultimately, it’s totally up to you! Weigh the pros and cons, picture that sweet new sparkle above your eye, and trust your gut. Whatever you decide, rock it with confidence!