Holier Than Thou

Piercing and tattoo studio in Manchester's Northern Quarter

Holier Than Thou is a piercing and tattoo studio located in Manchester's Northern Quarter, active since 2005. It presents itself as a registered member of the UKAPP (UK Association of Professional Piercers) and operates seven days a week. Its activity combines body piercing, tattooing, the sale of fine jewellery, advice and aftercare, as well as an in-house beauty studio.

Body piercing and fine jewellery

The piercing service is based on placement guided by anatomical criteria and on a selection of jewellery displayed in the studio itself, from a first lobe to more complex compositions. Jewellery is sold separately and the catalogue includes 14 and 18 carat gold, implant-grade titanium, niobium and glass. The studio states that stock changes daily and that it never applies hard selling.

Tattooing and the Lashes of Lilith beauty studio

For tattooing, custom pieces are offered as well as walk-in work, with a price set per piece and not per hour; for larger work, day rates and discounts are considered. The studio also has Lashes of Lilith, its own beauty space working with 100% vegan lashes, brows and other services, aimed at any gender.

Hygiene protocols and technical profiles

The studio describes independent sterilisation protocols in each room, with ultrasonic cleaners, cold-soak tanks and autoclaves, as well as HEPA and Medivent air filtration and easy-clean, hospital-grade surfaces. Its professionals, according to the studio's own information, have anatomical training and aseptic technique, and have received international awards. Helen is the resident piercer since 2013.

Indicative prices and booking

The published catalogue indicates that piercing ranges from 25 to 80 pounds depending on the type, while initial jewellery starts at 10 pounds and can exceed 300. Booking is done online and the booking fee is deducted from the total when visiting the studio. Gift vouchers are also offered for any amount, redeemable on piercings, tattoos, jewellery and beauty services.

Advice and aftercare

The studio provides prior advice and support during healing, with a full range of aftercare products. The service is approached with honest recommendations tailored to each person's anatomy.

Location and contact

97 Oldham Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M4 1LW · Phone: 0161 839 3737 · Email: hello@holier-than-thou.co.uk · Opening hours: Monday: 10:00 – 18:00; Tuesday: 10:00 – 18:00; Wednesday: 10:00 – 18:30; Thursday: 10:00 – 18:00; Friday: 10:00 – 18:00; Saturday: 10:00 – 18:30; Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00