Lip piercing - healing, aftercare and questions

Lip piercings are one of the most popular types of facial piercings that can look stunning on everyone! However, getting a face or lip piercing is an important decision that should not be rushed, especially if you are new to the world of piercing. 

To help you make the perfect choice for your next piercing, we've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about lip piercings. We cover everything from the pain factor to proper aftercare procedures and even jewelry options, so you'll be armed with everything you need to know about this popular lip piercing before you book an appointment. 

What is a lip piercing?

A standard labial piercing is done at a central point under the lower lip, right in that little indentation between the lips and chin. Although many consider a lip piercing to be a lip piercing, it is actually formally defined as a facial piercing and usually does not touch the real lip at all. 

A standard labial piercing is usually done with a special type of jewelry known as a labial earring, which is a barbell with a bead on one end and a flat disk on the other. Replacing the stud with a hoop can only be done after the piercing has completely healed. 

There are also several lip piercing options that actually pierce the lip, such as:

Vertical lip piercing: A vertical labial piercing is usually done with a curved barbell and placed vertically through the center of the lower lip, with one bead at the bottom of the lip and the other at the top. This tends to emphasize the curve of the lips.  

Horizontal lip piercing: horizontal labial piercing is classified as a non-viable piercing and dangerous to perform, our studio does not do this piercing and we do not recommend anyone to do it. It is also possible to have double labial piercings side by side or stacked on top of each other, or lateral labial piercings further towards the corners of the mouth. A snakebite piercing is a popular form of lateral labial piercing.    

Does a lip piercing hurt?

Standard labial piercings are considered fairly mild on the pain scale, while vertical and horizontal lip piercings tend to be slightly more painful due to the lips being slightly more sensitive. 

To make your piercing as painless as possible, always choose an experienced piercer from a reputable shop who pierces with new, sterilized, hollow-ended surgical needles. 

How to choose a good piercing salon for a lip piercing?

As mentioned above, a good piercer can help make your piercing as quick and painless as possible. It is also very important to choose a store with high safety standards and the best equipment. Avoid studios that use firearms, as they spread blood-borne pathogens and damaged tissue, and metals are unsuitable for implants and can cause reactions that leave permanent scars and dents. The professional team at Pierced at the Upper Canada Mall in Newmarket are highly experienced and practice only under the most sterile conditions using surgical cannulae. 

How do I clean and care for my new lip piercing?

Proper cleaning and care of a new piercing will prevent infection, reduce the risk of complications, and ensure that the piercing heals quickly and properly. So don't skimp on taking care of yourself. 

First, make sure your hands are clean before touching a new piercing. This is your first line of defense against harmful bacteria. 

You will then need to apply the saline solution to the outside of your lip piercing at least twice a day. To do this, you can buy a ready-made solution for care. In addition to soaking the outside of the piercing, you should rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash every time you eat something. Regular mouthwashes are not recommended, as the alcohol and strong flavors in them can be incredibly painful and irritate a new piercing. 

Lastly, don't play with your new piercing and keep skin care products or cosmetics away from the area until it's completely healed. 

What foods and drinks should I avoid while my lip piercing heals?

In addition to properly cleaning your piercing, you may need to avoid certain foods and drinks while the piercing heals. Alcohol and spicy foods are two big problems to avoid. Alcohol can sting and dry out the area, making it harder for the piercing to heal. Spicy food can cause a painful burning sensation if it comes into contact with a fresh piercing, so it's best to proceed with caution or avoid these things entirely.

Also, it is best to avoid smoking with a fresh lip piercing. The chemicals in cigarettes can cause irritation and complications.

How long does a lip piercing take to heal?

Most lip piercings heal completely in as little as 4-6 months. However, it is important to be careful with them and continue to care for them until 9 months of age, as sometimes the inner wall may not have recovered by the time the outer area has completely healed. 

Because of this, the longer you follow the cleaning and care routine, the better the results will be. 

Can my piercing be infected?

Some swelling, redness, pain, and discharge are normal while the piercing heals. However, if any of these symptoms seem severe or get worse, it's best to check with your piercer or doctor, just to be on the safe side. 

In addition to the above symptoms, other signs of a possible infection include a severe rash, profuse pus, severe itching, hot skin around the puncture, or fever. Any of these symptoms should be addressed immediately. Although a serious infection is rare, you are more likely to be able to successfully prevent an infection if you catch it early. So it's best to get a professional opinion if you're worried that something might be wrong. 

What are the potential risks and complications associated with a lip piercing?

The most common risks associated with labial piercings are tooth wear, misaligned teeth, and gum damage. All three of these are caused by the rubbing of the jewelry or disc against the teeth and gums, although the piercer will measure you and place the piercing correctly to avoid the teeth and gum line. If you start noticing soreness in your teeth and gums, or feel like your jewelry is wearing out in these areas, you may want to talk to your piercer about switching to a different style or size of jewelry.  

What kind of jewelry can be worn for lip piercing?

A standard labial piercing works best with earrings, although rings can sometimes be worn. Curved barbells and rings can also be worn for vertical labial or lateral labial piercings.

No matter which style you choose, always make sure your piercing is completely healed before changing jewelry!

Ready to take the next step?

At Pierced.co, we are here to help you get the perfect combination of lip piercing and jewelry. Our team is made up of highly trained and talented piercers who are caring and compassionate. Stop by one of our two convenient locations in Newmarket or Mississauga.