Everything You Need to Know About Lower Lip Piercing

You can either pierce your upper or lower lip, or both according to your preferences. When we speak of lower lip piercings specifically, it refers to penetrative piercing done directly in the lower lip, or on portions adjacent to it.

Piercing of the lower lip involves injuring the tissues and creating a small hole for adorning varied designs of body jewelry. One should not take this or any other body piercing lightly, as the procedure is associated with certain risk factors. To be on the safer side, be prepared with the right information about the same before you actually go for the procedure. Also, getting it done by a qualified piercer is a must to minimize risks and dangers that might accompany the procedure. The types, jewelry, procedure, care, and associated risks with respect to lower lip piercings are discussed below.

The name of the types varies according to the actual location of the piercing. Say for example, a labret piercing is positioned at the center of the base of the lower lip. The history of labret piercing dates back to ancient Mayans and Aztecs, and was opted by males to represent their higher class. Another example is the lowbret, in which the piercing is done along the lower gum line.

Selecting jewelry is as important as contacting an expert professional. The trick is to choose jewelry made from inert and lightweight metal, like titanium, high quality stainless steel, and gold. They are non-allergenic, and contribute to fast healing of the wound.

First, the area to be punctured is sterilized properly, followed by marking of the needle entry point (both outside and inside of lower lip). Based on the lip's thickness, the jewelry size is decided. A surgical clamp is then placed on it and the lip is pierced with a surgical needle at the marked point. Finally, the jewelry is inserted in the hole. As with any injury, it is expected to pain to a certain degree.

The pain intensity may be higher than any other piercing, as injury is concentrated in the soft lip tissues. Basic care includes soaking the wound in dilute saline solution for 5 minutes, at least 2-3 times daily. This loosens any unwanted discharge that adheres to the jewelry. Gently remove the crust or deposits by using a Q-tip. During the healing period too, rotate the jewelry and continue washing with the saline solution.

Avoid touching the wound with your hands. Any negligence in the aftercare tips increases the risk of an infection. Notable infection symptoms include redness, abnormal swelling, smelly discharge, and severe pain for more than 2 days. In case of any suspected signs of infection, do not delay in taking medical action. With proper care, the healing period usually lasts from 4-6 weeks.

A professional from a reputed salon charges higher than the novices in the field. On an average, the cost is anywhere between USD 20-80. Also, the total cost depends on the type of jewelry selected. If you opt for gold or diamond lip jewelry, the cost will be higher.

In order to ensure quick healing of the wound, you should strictly follow the aftercare instructions, as suggested by the professional. If you really wish to wear lip jewelry, but do not want to undergo this painful procedure, then you may opt for fake lip piercings and flaunt them like real piercings without undergoing any kind of needle penetration.