Shark Bite Piercing: Procedure, Healing, Jewelry, And Cost

Shark bite piercings have been slowly climbing the popularity charts and for good reason. They make a bold and powerful statement, making them perfect for those seeking a daring and unique look. This form of body modification involves getting double piercings on each side of your lower lip, resembling the appearance of a shark bite. While you may experience some discomfort during the procedure, the result is a striking look that showcases your individuality and fearless attitude. Whether you are a piercing enthusiast or a newcomer to body modification, this lip piercing choice will surely turn heads and spark conversation. Check out this article to learn about the procedure, aftercare, jewelry options, and more. So, dive into the world of shark bite piercings and embrace the fearless aesthetic they bring to your style.

Piercing Guide: Spider Bites

• Placement: Two piercings symmetrically placed on both sides of the lower li
• Best Jewelry: Flat-back labret studs, barbells
• Cost: $80 to $150
• Pain Level: Medium
• Healing Time: 6 to 12 weeks

Shark Bite Piercing Pain Level

The pain level of shark bite piercings may vary depending on your pain tolerance and the expertise of your skilled piercer. Unlike snake bite piercings that require just one piercing on each lower lip corner, shark bite piercings entail double piercings on either side. Many describe feeling a sharp, stinging sensation as the needles penetrate the skin twice on both sides of the lower lip simultaneously.

Some individuals may experience a dull ache or throbbing sensation afterward as the adrenaline wears off. However, the pain typically subsides quickly after the procedure. It is best to constantly communicate with your experienced piercer about any discomfort that you experience while getting pierced so that they can provide you with the right support.

Quick Tip

Suck on ice chips before the procedure to numb the area slightly. This may help reduce any discomfort felt during the procedure.

While pain is an inevitable part of this experience, understanding how the process works will help you prepare for the procedure properly. Check out the next section to know more.

Procedure For Shark Bite Piercings

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Fox Is A Witch (@thefoxisawitch)

A professional piercer will take you through the steps of the procedure to ensure you have a safe and comfortable experience. It is as follows:

• The piecer will cleanse the area around your lower lip to ensure it is free of bacteria.
• They will use a sterile marker to carefully mark the precise spots where the piercings will be placed to ensure symmetry and alignment.
• They will use sterilized piercing needles to pierce both sides of your lower lip, swiftly and accurately. You may experience some discomfort during the piercing process, but it is typically brief.
• After the piercings are made, the piercer will insert some rings or studs.
• Finally, they will provide you with aftercare instructions to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.

When done properly, shark bite piercings leave you with a bold and unique look. But that brings us to the next question, how long do they take to heal? Find out in the next section.

Healing Time For Shark Bite Piercing

The healing time for shark bite piercings can vary from person to person. However, it may range from anywhere between 6-12 weeks. You may experience swelling, tenderness, and some discharge, which is normal during the initial healing stage. Slowly, the discomfort will fade as your facial piercing starts healing.

It is essential to follow your piercer’s aftercare instructions during the healing period to ensure optimal results. If you twist the jewelry constantly or touch your piercing with dirty hands, you may increase the risk of developing complications. Scroll down to the next section to find out.

Complications Of Shark Bite Piercings

Following aftercare essentials is so crucial to a speedy recovery. But failing to do so may lead to the health risks mentioned below (1):

• Infection: Keep a lookout for signs of infection such as excessive redness, swelling, warmth, or pus around the piercing site. If you suspect an infection, seek medical attention promptly.
• Rejection: This happens when the body perceives the jewelry as a foreign substance and pushes it out gradually. This may lead to discomfort and distortion of the piercing.
• Gum And Tooth Damage: Improper placement or the wrong jewelry size can irritate your gums and teeth, potentially leading to gum recession or tooth damage.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to certain metals used in the jewelry, leading to irritation or inflammation around the piercing.
• Nerve Damage: Improper piercing techniques may cause nerve damage, resulting in numbness or an altered sensation around the piercing site.

Shark bite piercings come with their own share of risks and should be factored into your decision. But before you finalize your decision, check out how much it may cost to get one in the next section.

Cost Of Shark Bite Piercings

The cost of shark bite piercings varies depending on factors such as the location of the piercing studio, the expertise of the reputable piercer, and the type of jewelry chosen. On average, you can expect to pay between $80 to $150. This price includes the initial piercing procedure but not the jewelry used. You may have to pay additional fees for jewelry options and aftercare products. Therefore, it is essential to research piercing studios in your area, inquire about their pricing, and ensure they maintain high standards of cleanliness and professionalism before scheduling your appointment.

A blogger shares her experience of getting shark bite piercings. She got it done by an inexperienced piercer who did not align the piercings well, causing her to get them redone. She writes, “I really learned from this experience, it was very costly ($100 in total), painful, and embarrassing. But I love them so much and I have no regrets. Hope to have them forever! (i)”

Since this piercing procedure is on the expensive side, the only way to ensure that you get your money’s worth is to follow the aftercare instructions diligently. Check out the section below for some simple tips on how to clean your shark bite piercings properly.

How To Clean Shark Bite Piercings

You may follow the tips given below to keep your shark bite piercings clean and avoid any complications and infections that may occur due to poor hygiene (2), (3):

• Prepare a saline solution by mixing non-iodized sea salt with warm distilled water. Soak your piercings for 5-10 minutes twice a day.
• Use a mild, fragrance-free, antibacterial soap to clean around the piercings. Gently lather the soap and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
• After cleaning, gently pat the area around your shark bite piercings dry with a clean paper towel or sterile gauze.
• Rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash after meals to keep the area around your piercings clean.
• Avoid touching your piercings with unwashed hands to prevent introducing bacteria into your piercings.
• Refrain from rotating or moving the jewelry unnecessarily to prevent irritation and infection.

Pro Tip

Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh antiseptics on your piercings as these can irritate the skin and delay the healing process.

Following the above guidelines may help your piercing heal nicely without any complications. Once your piercings are healed, you can experiment with different jewelry styles to create unique and dynamic looks for yourself. Find out what they are below.

Types Of Jewelry Used For Shark Bite Piercings

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jay Morrisey (@jay_piercings_tattoos)

The following types of jewelry styles are recommended for your shark bite piercings:

• Flat-Back Labret Studs – These feature disk-shaped bases with removable decorative tops for minimal irritation and smooth healing. You can opt for ones with gems and intricate designs to style them as per the occasion.
• Barbells – They consist of straight bars with removable balls at each end, providing a sleek look.

You may also go for lip rings such as captive bead rings, stud rings, and other pieces of jewelry made of materials like sterling silver, gold, or titanium. Your piercer will assess your anatomy, listen to your preferences, and recommend the best option for you.

It is also important to keep the jewelry material in mind when considering options to avoid allergic reactions or rejections. Scroll down to the next section to find out.

Types Of Jewelry Material For Shark Bite Piercings

You can choose any of the following jewelry materials to avoid several complications such as rejection and infections (4), (5):

• Stainless Steel: It is a popular choice for new piercings due to its durability, affordability, and hypoallergenic properties.
• Titanium: The lack of nickel present in titanium makes it suitable for those with sensitive skin and nickel allergy .
• Biocompatible Materials: This category includes materials like niobium and implant-grade metals that are specifically designed to be compatible with the body, reducing the likelihood of irritation and promoting optimal healing.
• Gold: High-quality gold, such as 14k or 18k, is safe to use for new piercings and is aesthetically pleasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between shark bite piercing and other lip piercings?

Shark bite piercing features two lower lip piercings placed close together on either side, resembling a shark’s bite. Other lip piercings vary in placement like labret piercing, angel bites piercing, snake bite piercing, and many more.

How do you eat with a shark bite piercing?

Take small bites of your preferred soft foods, chew carefully, and be mindful of the jewelry to prevent discomfort or irritation. It is also essential to maintain good oral hygiene for proper healing.

Like any other piercing, shark bite piercings are prone to irritation or infection. But how do you distinguish between the two? Check out the video below to learn the key differences between the two and how to address them.

Was this article helpful?

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Rodrigo CascoProfessional Tattoo and Body Piercing Artist

   

Rodrigo Casco is an Argentine tattoo artist. He has 21 years of experience designing tattoos. He has done tattooing by hand as well as created his own tattoo machines. He has won multiple awards and stood first in national and international tattoo conventions, is a judge at events, and also gives many seminars.

Read full bio of Rodrigo Casco

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

Eshna DasAssociate Editor

Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.

Read full bio of Eshna Das

Pahul NanraBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Pahul Nanra is a content writer with a penchant for all things fashion and beauty. She has two years of experience in writing across beauty and lifestyle genres. She is an English Honors graduate from Delhi University with a diploma in Fashion Designing from YMCA.

Read full bio of Pahul Nanra