Is Body Piercing Allowed in Jewish Law?
I have even seen people that have put a stud into their Philtrum area?
The question is very complicated, for there are several prohibitions which piercing borders on.
[There is no connection between piercing and tattooing. The prohibition of tattooing is - primarily - inscribing oneself indelibly].
The general answer is as follows:
It is permitted for women to pierce themselves for (commonly accepted) beautification purposes. However, it is forbidden for a woman to pierce in concurrence with a fad or trend because we are commanded not to "follow the traditions [of the nations of the world]". 1
It is forbidden for men to pierce themselves since piercing is considered primarily a "woman's adornment."
[Sources: Deuteronomy 22:5 and Leviticus 18:3. See Maimonides, Laws of Idolatry 11:1 and 12:10.]
1. To distinguish between what is “commonly accepted” and what is merely a fad or passing trend, consult with your Rabbi