Microdermals and Dermal Anchors are single point piercings which depend on the fistula of the healed skin to hold them in place. Unlike most piercings, there is no exit hole. This is good because it allows the jewelery to be arranged virtually any way imaginable. This sucks because it also means fluids, dirt, and bacteria can reside in the hole and are harder to clean than standard piercings.
During healing (commonly 2-6 months) they should be cleaned regularly with saline solution and carefully dried afterwards to prevent moisture buildup. While healing initially they are not firmly rooted and may rise to not sit flush with the surface of the skin or even be pulled out fully if snagged or pulled hard enough. I recommend wearing a breathable water-proof bandage such as tegaderm whenever possible for the first two weeks (especially during sleep). A very minimal and light pressure on the jewelery is good, but if it starts to indent into the skin then there is too much pressure and it should be allowed to breathe.
Microdermals
Microdermals have 1-4 holes depending on quality and design which are typically inserted with a biopsy punch and a few specially designed tools. The skin heals through the little holes in the foot and graft the jewelery in place. These are often a more suitable replacement for surface piercings such as the nape of the neck and clavicle regions. These are suitable replacements for most surface piercing projects, due to the ease of entry and heal time. The lack of connecting bar also greatly impacts the freedom of where they can be safely placed.
Dermal Anchors
Dermal Anchors were invented by Ben Trigg and appear in a "J" shape. They are inserted with a needle to form a subcutaneous pocket which the jewelery is maneuvered into. As the fistula forms around the jewelery the skin holds the "anchored" end in place.
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