Lip Piercing: Types, Chart, Pain, Aftercare, And Jewelry

Pucker up to a world of style and get ready to rock your bling confidently.

Reviewed by Ikramul Haque Shazib, Professional Body Piercer Ikramul Haque Shazib Ikramul Haque ShazibProfessional Body Piercer facebook_iconlinkedin_iconinsta_icon
Written by Vaishali Sinha, MA (Comparative Literature) Vaishali Sinha MA (Comparative Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Edited by Shatabdi Bhattacharya, BSc Shatabdi Bhattacharya BSc linkedin_icon Experience: 2.5 years
Fact-checked by Shreya Mukherjee, MA (English) Shreya Mukherjee MA (English) Experience: 2 years
Last Updated on
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Woman with a lip piercing

Image: Shutterstock

Lip piercings, with their playful glint and diverse styles, have captivated people for centuries. They offer a unique way to express individuality and embrace a bold aesthetic. From the iconic Monroe placement to the daring spider bites, there is a lip-piercing style for every personality. Whether you are drawn to a single stud’s timeless elegance or multiple rings’ bold allure, many jewelry options can complement your individuality. However, this journey involves understanding the different types of piercings, choosing the right placement, and, most importantly, prioritizing a safe and responsible aftercare process. Keep reading to learn more about the essential considerations before taking the plunge.

protip_icon Piercing Guide: Lip Piercing
  • Placement: Through or on the lip, upper or lower
  • Best Jewelry: Labret studs, captive bead rings
  • Cost: Around $40 to $80
  • Pain Level: Medium
  • Healing Time: 8 to 12 weeks

Lip Piercing Chart

Lip piercings offer a diverse way to express yourself. But so many options can feel overwhelming! Worry not, this handy chart unveils some popular picks, helping you match your style with the perfect piercing:

protip_icon Did You Know?
Various tribes across Africa, such as the Mursi people in Ethiopia, have a tradition of lip plates and lip piercings as a cultural and symbolic practice.

Choosing a lip piercing is not just about aesthetics; it is about understanding commitment and finding the perfect fit for your lifestyle. The following section showcases a variety of options to tickle your fancy!

Lip Piercing Types

1. Angel Bites

Angel bites piercing consists of a pair of symmetrical piercings on the upper lip. It creates an angelic and balanced appearance for those who appreciate a refined, dual-stud aesthetic.

2. Ashley

It involves a single stud elegantly placed at the center of the lower lip. Ashley piercing offers a classic and subtle expression.

3. Canine Bites

It features dual piercings placed higher on the upper lip. Canine bite piercing ends with a bold and daring flair while maintaining symmetry and style.

4. Cyber Bites

It offers a cutting-edge, futuristic look with a combination of upper and lower lip piercings. Cyber bites piercing blends elements of a labret and medusa piercing.

5. Dahlia

Dahlia (joker) piercings accentuate the corners of the mouth with two piercings. It provides a delicate yet captivating touch, enhancing facial expressions with understated charm.

6. Dolphin Bites

It consists of two piercings that are positioned close to the center of the lower lip. Dolphin bites piercing creates a playful and engaging aesthetic for those seeking a charismatic look.

7. Horizontal Lip

It extends horizontally through either the upper or lower lip. Horizontal lip piercing allows for creative placement and a distinctive appearance.

8. Jestrum

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It vertically traverses the upper lip, with one end subtly visible on the philtrum (the center of the upper lip). Jestrum piercing is unique and eye-catching and creates an intriguing and distinctive facial feature.

9. Labret

It involves a single stud beneath the center of the lower lip. Labret piercing provides a timeless and adaptable option for those seeking a straightforward yet stylish look.

10. Madonna

It features a single stud on the upper lip’s right side. Madonna piercing pays homage to the iconic beauty mark of the famous singer, adding a touch of vintage elegance.

11. Medusa

This philtrum piercing is placed at the center of the upper lip. This single piercing exudes sophistication and refinement, making it a popular choice for those seeking a subtle yet impactful facial accent.

12. Monroe

It involves a single stud on the upper lip’s left side. It is inspired by the beauty mark of Marilyn Monroe, offering a classic and nostalgic charm.

protip_icon Did You Know?
The famous beauty mark became Monroe’s signature feature, instantly recognizable and adding to her mystique. It even earned its nickname: “The Little Mouse.”

13. Shark Bites

It comprises four piercings – two on each side of the mouth. Shark bite piercing creates a fierce and dynamic appearance for those with a daring sense of style.

14. Snake Bites

It features a pair of piercings on the lower lip’s sides. Snake bite lip piercing is trendy and balanced, providing a symmetrical and fashionable look that suits various styles.

15. Spider Bites

It offers a compact and striking appearance with dual piercings on the lower lip. Spider bite piercing adds an edgy and unique touch.

16. Vertical Labret Piercing

It involves a vertical placement through the center of the lower lip. Vertical labret piercing offers a fresh and distinctive take on the traditional labret piercing.

Understanding the diverse universe of lip piercings is just the first step. It is time to unveil the jewelry that adorns them! Each piercing, from the classic labret to the daring spider bite, requires specific jewelry types to ensure comfort, security, and healing.

What Type Of Lip Piercing Jewelry Is Used?

Different types of lip piercing jewelry
Image: Shutterstock

Lip piercings typically use various types of jewelry, such as studs, rings, flat back labrets, captive rings, or hoop styles, depending on the specific piercing style.

protip_icon Did You Know?
The punk rock movement of the 1970s and 1980s played a significant role in popularizing facial piercings, contributing to the rebellious and anti-establishment image.

Common types include labret studs, hoop rings, captive bead rings (CBRs), and horseshoe rings.

Lip studs are classic and versatile. They also come in various materials and styles, from simple balls to intricate designs. Labrets with flat backs are common for lip piercings due to their comfort and security.

Rings come in various thicknesses and diameters. They might require slightly longer healing times and can rotate, so they are not always suitable for all lip piercings.

Horseshoe barbells are curved barbells that have open ends. These circular barbells are popular as they allow for easy jewelry changes and are often used for horizontal lip piercings.

We covered studs, rings, and more, but what materials make them safe and stylish? Each material boasts unique benefits and considerations. Learn more about them below.

What Jewelry Material Is Used For Lip Piercing?

Jewelry materials for lip piercings should be safe and hypoallergenic.

  • Surgical stainless steel is the most common choice as it is highly durable, hypoallergenic, and affordable.
  • Titanium is even more hypoallergenic than surgical steel, lighter, but pricier.
  • Gold is beautiful and luxurious, but since it is softer it requires more care. It is also not recommended for new piercings due to potential irritation.
  • Glass is another choice since it is biocompatible and smooth. While it is good for sensitive skin, it is more fragile.

Material choice significantly impacts not just the aesthetics of your lip piercing but also its price.

How Much Is A Lip Piercing?

On average, you can expect to pay between $40 and $80 for the body piercing itself, excluding the cost of jewelry.

Remember, this is just a ballpark figure, and prices can vary depending on factors like piercing location, piercer experience, and jewelry material.

Investing in a safe and professional piercing experience might cost a bit more upfront, but it ensures a smoother healing process, minimizes risks, and ultimately gives you the best value for your money. So, do your research, ask around for recommendations and reputable piercing shops, and prioritize quality over a quick buck.

Now that you have a budget in mind, let us tackle the often-asked question: how much does it hurt?

Do Lip Piercings Hurt?

Woman getting her lips pierced
Image: Shutterstock

Everyone has different pain tolerance, but lip piercings are generally considered moderately painful due to the sensitive nature of the area.

It is usually a quick pinch followed by some throbbing or tenderness. Proper aftercare considerations significantly contribute to minimizing discomfort and promoting a smooth healing process.

While we discussed the potential discomfort during the piercing itself, healing is another crucial aspect to consider. Understanding the typical healing timelines for lip piercings will help you set realistic expectations.

How Long Does Lip Piercing Take To Heal?

Lip piercings are safe and heal well. The standard healing time is about 6-8 weeks to heal completely, with some taking up to 12 weeks. However, individual healing experiences can differ.

So, consider the typical healing time to be around 8-12 weeks (1).

Consistent aftercare practices, a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding unnecessary trauma to the piercing contribute to a quicker healing process. Proper cleaning also plays a vital role in ensuring your lip piercing heals quickly and safely.

How To Clean Lip Piercing

Woman cleaning her lip piercing
Image: Shutterstock

Here’s a quick guide on how you can keep your oral piercings clean and infection-free (2), (3), (4):

  • Use a saline solution or a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash twice a day.
  • Soak a clean gauze pad, and gently hold it around the piercing for a few minutes.
  • Rinse thoroughly.
  • Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol, and oral rinses.

While consistent cleaning is essential, it is important to understand the broader spectrum of aftercare recommendations. Keep reading to learn more about them.

Lip Piercing Aftercare

Aftercare involves maintaining cleanliness and avoiding habits that may disrupt the healing process. Here are some of the common tips and recommendations a professional piercer may ask you to follow (2), (3), (4):

  • Maintain good oral hygiene which includes brushing and flossing regularly.
  • Avoid touching the piercing with unwashed hands.
  • No smoking or alcohol during healing.
  • Avoid spicy or acidic foods that can irritate the piercing.
  • Use soft pillows to prevent snagging during sleep.

While following proper aftercare significantly reduces the risk of complications, understanding potential side effects helps you to address them efficiently.

Side Effects Of Lip Piercing

Lip swelling
Image: Shutterstock

Potential side effects include swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness. These are usually temporary and subside with proper care (4), (5).

Danielle Ridgway, a blogger, shared her recent experience with a lip piercing, expressing both love for its aesthetics and frustration with unexpected side effects. She admitted, “I actually love the way it looks. Not my fat lip, just the piercing (i).” Despite the well-executed procedure, Danielle noticed swelling. She shared, “This swollen is like I got into a huge fist fight.”

Swelling and inflammation are the most common side effects, typically lasting a few days to a week. Apply ice packs externally and use a saline solution for gentle cleaning to reduce swelling (4), (5).

You can use over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage the pain or discomfort. Light bleeding might occur immediately after the piercing process, but excessive or prolonged bleeding warrants a visit to your piercer (4), (5).

Allergic reactions to jewelry materials are possible, emphasizing the importance of choosing hypoallergenic options (4).

While most side effects are harmless, you may still face the risk of infection. An infected lip piercing is a serious concern to watch out for. Some of the common signs of infection include fever, severe pain, pus, or prolonged redness. If you observe these symptoms, consult your piercer or doctor (5).

While most side effects like swelling are temporary, embedding requires proactive attention. Learn more about it below.

How To Stop Lip Piercing Embedding

Embedding occurs when the jewelry sinks into the tissue. To prevent embedding, avoid playing with the jewelry, maintain good oral hygiene, and choose appropriately sized jewelry to allow for potential swelling during the healing process.

If you suspect this, consult your piercer immediately. They might adjust the jewelry or suggest changing it to a larger size.

Lip piercings, with their dazzling variety and bold appeal, offer a unique way to amplify your style and embrace your individuality. There’s a piercing to match every personality, from the iconic Monroe piercing to the futuristic cyber bites. But remember, this journey goes beyond aesthetics. It is about understanding different styles, choosing the right placement, and prioritizing safe aftercare. Understanding side effects like swelling and potential embedding is essential. With healing times ranging from 6-12 weeks, the entire lip piercing process requires patience. With proper care, lip piercings are a safe and rewarding experience, contributing to a personal style statement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat and drink with a new lip piercing?

Yes. However, avoid crunchy, sticky, or spicy foods that can irritate the piercing. Opt for soft bites and lukewarm liquids for the first few days. Also, be mindful of cleanliness to prevent irritation.

Do lip piercings leave permanent holes?

No. Once you remove the jewelry, the piercing holes usually close up completely. However, deeper piercings like snake bites might leave faint scars, depending on your healing process.

Can lip piercing shift teeth?

Generally, no. Lip piercings are placed in soft tissue and should not affect your teeth. However, consult your dentist if you have any concerns or experience unusual movement.

Key Takeaways

  • Lip piercings are a great way to express yourself and add some personality to your smile.
  • There are many different types of lip piercings to choose from, so you can find one that matches your style.
  • It is important to choose a reputable piercer and to follow proper aftercare instructions to ensure that your piercing heals properly.

Getting a lip piercing can be quite daunting. Watch the video below to learn all the things you should know before getting this uniquely delicate piercing.

Personal Experience: Source

StyleCraze's articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.

(i) Lip Pains…
https://ridgwaydanielle.wordpress.com/2012/07/11/lip-pains/

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Body piercing
    https://youngwomenshealth.org/guides/body-piercing/
  2. Suggested Aftercare For Oral Piercings
    https://safepiercing.org/oral-aftercare/
  3. Oral Piercings
    https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/oral-piercings/
  4. Body piercing
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1127091/
  5. Body Piercing Infections
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537336/
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Ikramul Haque Shazib
Ikramul Haque ShazibProfessional Body Piercer
Ikramul Haque Shazib is a professional body piercer with 5 years of experience. He is based in Khulna, Bangladesh, and provides safe and high-quality body piercing services to his clients. Whether it's ear piercings, facial piercings, or body modifications, Shazib ensures that his clients have a comfortable and memorable experience.

Read full bio of Ikramul Haque Shazib
Vaishali Sinha
Vaishali SinhaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Vaishali Sinha is a beauty and lifestyle writer with five years of experience in writing for various genres. She has a master’s degree in Comparative Literature from Jadavpur University. She combines her passion for beauty and lifestyle topics with her artistic background as an Indian classical vocalist to bring a fresh and creative perspective to her writing.

Read full bio of Vaishali Sinha
Shatabdi Bhattacharya
Shatabdi BhattacharyaAssociate Editor
Shatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.

Read full bio of Shatabdi Bhattacharya
Shreya Mukherjee
Shreya MukherjeeBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Shreya is a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience. After graduating from Christ University, Bengaluru, she started as a writer for a non-profit organization, Bhumi, as an intern. She then wrote for a progressive content website.

Read full bio of Shreya Mukherjee
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