EPM – International Association of Ear Piercing Market Specialists
International Association of Ear Piercing Market Specialists (EPM)
A recent European investigation conducted by Test-Aankoop (Belgium’s leading consumer protection organization), in collaboration with Stiftung Warentest (Germany) and Forbrugerrådet Tænk (Denmark), has highlighted ongoing concerns about the safety and traceability of low-cost products sold via unregulated online marketplaces.
The research revealed that while many of these items may appear attractive due to their low prices, a significant proportion do not meet basic EU safety standards. Beyond electrical goods and toys, the jewellery category in particular raised important questions about material safety and consumer health.
These findings are not only relevant for general consumers — they are particularly concerning for professionals working with ear and body piercings, where jewellery comes into direct contact with open skin.
A Coordinated European Investigation
In the study, 162 consumer products were purchased and tested across three categories: toys, USB chargers, and necklaces.
The results showed that approximately 70% of all items failed to comply with European safety regulations.
Among the jewellery samples:
- Some contained cadmium concentrations as high as 85%, compared to the legal limit of 0.01%.
- Excessive nickel and lead levels were also detected — both known to cause allergic reactions, organ damage, and other health effects with prolonged exposure.
- Many items were unbranded and untraceable, making it impossible to identify the manufacturer or verify quality control.
According to Laura Clays, spokesperson for Test-Aankoop, these results underline the importance of traceability and certification when purchasing consumer goods online: “Buying cheap products on these online platforms is a bit like playing Russian roulette. Some are fine, but others pose serious health risks.”
What the Laboratories Found
The selected products were purchased by mystery shoppers under typical online buying conditions and tested by accredited laboratories for mechanical, electrical, and chemical safety.
Out of 54 jewellery items tested, five exceeded the legal chemical limits for hazardous substances, with some showing extremely high levels of cadmium and nickel.
Even though jewellery represented the least dangerous category overall in the study, the presence of such substances remains a cause for concern — particularly given the popularity of these products among younger consumers.
Why This Matters for Ear Piercing Professionals
Although the research focused on jewellery intended for intact skin, the implications could be even more critical for ear and body piercing.
Jewellery used for piercing comes into direct contact with open tissue. If the materials contain harmful substances or lack biocompatibility, the risk of irritation, allergic reaction, or infection increases significantly.
Professional piercing therefore requires not only sterile technique but also safe, certified, and traceable materials. Using non-certified or unverified jewellery can compromise both safety standards and end consumer trust.
At the International Association of Ear Piercing Market Specialists (EPM) – we continue to emphasize the importance of material traceability, product testing, and professional responsibility across the industry.
Strengthening Consumer Protection
In response to the findings, several European authorities — including Belgium’s Federal Ministry of the Environment— have announced new measures aimed at improving market surveillance and product safety.
These include:
- Increasing inspection capacity at borders and distribution centres,
- Reviewing and tightening penalties for violations, and
- Raising consumer awareness about the importance of purchasing jewellery from verified EU suppliers that comply with established safety standards.
During the first nine months of the year, inspectors found that many low-cost jewellery items -especially from Asia- contain excessive levels of lead and cadmium. These toxic metals can accumulate in the body over time and pose serious long-term health risks — a sharp contrast to certified, high-quality jewellery offered by EPM members, which meet strict international safety and quality standards.
The Takeaway
This investigation serves as a reminder that traceability, certification, and regulatory compliance are key to ensuring consumer safety — particularly in products that come into contact with the skin.
By choosing materials and suppliers that meet recognized European and international standards, jewellery retailers and piercing professionals can help maintain the highest levels of safety, quality, and trust.
Sources:
https://www.test-aankoop.be/familie-prive/webshops/nieuws/onderzoek-kwaliteit-temu-shein (BE)
https://www.test.de/Temu-und-Shein-Gefaehrliche-Schnaeppchen-6253491-0 (DE)