If you’re considering getting a lip piercing, we totally support your creative self-expression. However, we recommend that you do a little bit of research before taking the plunge and making a serious commitment. After all, a lip piercing is very different from wearing a faux lip ring.
To make things easy for you, we have answered all the lip piercing FAQs to help you get an idea of what it’s all about. So let’s get started.
What Are the Most Popular Lip Piercing Placements?
Lip piercings are usually placed around either the upper or lower lip and sometimes on the sides of the lips. This piercing style is very popular because of the sheer amount of placement options available and the ways you can customize the whole look.
Common placements include the labret (middle of the lower lip), medusa (right at the philtrum), and Monroe (either side of the upper lip to mimic a beauty mark). However, there are plenty of other options such as:
Snake bites –right and left sides of the lower lip
Angel bites – right and left sides of the philtrum
Cyber bites – a combination of the medusa and labret piercings
Dolphin bites – a pair of lower lip piercings placed close to each other near the center of the lip
How Much Does It Hurt?
The skin on and around the lips is sensitive and oft so the piercing will hurt but the pain will be tolerable. You’ll have to be extra careful while eating or drinking so as to not bite on the piercing. If you’re beginner, it’s best to start with a single lip piercing. Once it’s fully healed, you can consider trying the more adventurous options.
What Type of Jewelry Should I Choose?
If you want the healing to be smooth and quick, get your lip piercing done with a 16 or 18 gauge titanium, niobium, or 18 karats gold metal. While there are a variety of styles to choose from including surface barbells, studs, rings, etc., a stud or a barbell works better for fresh piercings. If you want to wear a hoop or a ring, go for a larger sized piece.
Will the Piercing Affect My Eating/Drinking?
For the first week or two, yes! You will have to choose soft food that’s not too hot or spicy. Any hot beverages will also have to be avoided during this time. Smoking and drinking will also not be allowed.
How Long Will It take to Heal?
Lip piercings can usually take 2 to 3 months to fully heal. To help speed up the process of healing you will have to practice good piercing aftercare. This includes maintaining oral and external hygiene, eating right, staying hydrated, getting good sleep, and minimizing stress.
Regularly rinsing your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash will be very important to minimize bacterial growth. Similarly, you will have to carefully brush your teeth every day without disturbing your piercing. We strongly recommend that you use a new toothbrush after getting the piercing done.
