So I did a ton of research on getting my kids' ears pierced in Arizona - in both the Flagstaff and Phoenix areas... and ended up at HTC. We live in Cave Creek and made the drive to HTC in Tempe, because getting my kids pierced with a gun by some high school kid at the mall was unacceptable. I called HTC and they advised that piercing age was based on the individual piercer, but it seems like age 8 or so is about the right time for the kids to be able to manage aftercare for ear piercings based on the feedback from various piercers there.
We did not book an appointment, and made the chance drive to Tempe for my daughter's 9th birthday, and ended getting her ears pierced by Kevin. My daughter is VERY particular, and very conscientious about taking care of things. She (and I) really appreciated the extra time and care that Kevin took to ensure that her questions were answered, her ear piercings perfectly aligned & placed, and done in the most professional and sterile environment possible. When other reviewers talk about glove changing, they aren't kidding! This place is WAY more sterile and clinical than your average family doctor's office.
Although my 6 year old wasn't able to get her ears pierced for this birthday, she will be anxiously awaiting her return trip to HTC for her big day too! Kevin made it super special for my 9 year old. The best combination of professionalism + aptitude + clinical environment. NO PIERCING GUNS!
We will refer everyone we know to HTC. Thank you HTC & Kevin!!