Labret Piercing

Piercing Labret: Types, Styles, and Everything You Need to Know

For centuries, lip piercings have been utilized by ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Rome, and India for cultural, religious, and aesthetic reasons. Over time, piercings have evolved, and today, people have access to a vast array of styles and types. One popular piercing is the labret piercing. This article delves into the different types of labret piercings such as the vertical and side labret piercings, as well as the crucial aspects of aftercare, healing, and jewelry selection.

What is a Labret Piercing?

A labret piercing is a type of lip piercing that is located below the lower lip, above the chin. This piercing can be done in various styles and locations, but the most popular type is the centered labret piercing. The jewelry used for this type of piercing is usually a small stud or ring, and it is commonly worn by both men and women.

Placement	Pain Level	Healing Time	Pricing
Centered	4/10	2-3 months	$30-$50
Off-center	4/10	2-3 months	$30-$50

The labret piercing is typically located centrally under the bottom lip or just off to the side. The pain level for this piercing is generally rated at 4 out of 10, with some discomfort during the piercing process and a few days of soreness afterward. The healing time for a labret piercing is around 2-3 months, during which proper aftercare is crucial to promote healing and prevent infection. The pricing for a labret piercing can vary depending on the location of the piercing studio, the experience level of the piercer, and the type of jewelry chosen. On average, a labret piercing can cost between $30-$50 for the piercing only, plus the cost of the chosen jewelry.

What are the different type of labret piercing?

Each type of labret piercing offers a unique look and can be adorned with a variety of jewelry, such as studs, rings, or barbells, to suit personal preference.

• Centered labret piercing

A centered labret piercing is a type of piercing located in the center of the lower lip, just above the chin. It is a popular type of lip piercing that has been around for centuries and is commonly adorned with a stud or ring.

The process of getting a centered labret piercing involves a piercer marking the center of the lower lip and using a sterilized needle to create a small hole. A labret stud is then inserted into the piercing, with the flat back of the stud sitting inside the mouth and the decorative end sitting on the outside of the lip.

Centered labret piercings offer a unique and stylish look, and can be adorned with a variety of jewelry to suit personal preference.

• Vertical labret piercing

A vertical labret piercing is a type of piercing that goes through the center of the bottom lip and up through the top of the chin, creating a “snake bite” appearance. It is typically adorned with a curved or straight barbell.

To get a vertical labret piercing, a piercer will mark the center of the bottom lip and the top of the chin, and use a sterilized needle to create a hole through both areas. The jewelry, which is usually a curved or straight barbell, is then inserted into the piercing.

• Side labret piercing

A side labret piercing is a type of piercing located off-center on either side of the lower lip. It is an angled piercing that is typically adorned with a stud or ring.

The process of getting a side labret piercing involves marking the desired placement on the lower lip and using a sterilized needle to create a small hole. The jewelry, which can be a stud or a ring, is then inserted into the piercing.

How long does a labret piercing take to heal?

Properly cleaning and caring for a new labret piercing is essential to prevent infection, lower the risk of complications, and ensure a speedy and successful healing process. To start, it’s crucial to make sure your hands are clean before touching the piercing to avoid introducing harmful bacteria.

In addition to keeping your hands clean, you’ll want to apply a saline solution to the outside of your piercing at least twice a day. This can be done using a premade aftercare solution. It’s also important to rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash after every meal to prevent the accumulation of bacteria.

It’s essential to avoid playing with your new piercing and keep any skin care or makeup products away from the area until it’s fully healed. These products can introduce harmful bacteria that can cause infections or slow down the healing process.

Properly caring for your new labret piercing is crucial to ensure successful healing and a stylish addition to your appearance. Remember to be patient and follow proper aftercare instructions to enjoy your new piercing to the fullest.

How to clean a labret piercing?

Healing a labret piercing takes time and proper care to ensure that the piercing site heals correctly and without any complications. Here are some tips to promote healing for your labret piercing:

1. Clean the piercing site twice a day with a saline solution or mild soap and water to prevent infection.
2. Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands, and do not twist or turn the jewelry.
3. Avoid smoking or using straws that can create suction and cause irritation to the piercing.
4. Eat soft foods and avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods that can irritate the piercing.
5. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean the piercing, as these can dry out the skin and delay the healing process.
6. Be patient and do not change the jewelry too soon. It is recommended to wait at least 6-8 weeks before changing the jewelry to allow the piercing to heal properly.

How much does a labret piercing cost?

The cost of a labret piercing can vary depending on a few factors, such as the location of the piercing studio, the experience level of the piercer, and the type of jewelry you choose for the piercing. On average, a labret piercing can cost anywhere from $30 to $50 or more.

It is important to choose a reputable and experienced piercer for your labret piercing to ensure that the process is safe and hygienic, even if it means paying a slightly higher price. Remember that getting a piercing is a long-term investment, so it is worth taking the time to find the right piercer and jewelry for your needs.

How to change a labret piercing?

Here are the steps to safely change a labret piercing:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent any bacteria from entering the piercing.
2. Gently remove the existing jewelry from the piercing. For labret studs, unscrew the ball from the post of the jewelry.
3. Clean the jewelry with a saline solution or soap and water.
4. Carefully insert the new jewelry into the piercing. Make sure the jewelry is properly aligned and the ball is securely screwed onto the post.
5. Clean the area around the piercing with a saline solution or soap and water.

To prevent irritation or infection, it’s crucial to avoid changing your labret piercing too soon. Experts recommend waiting for at least 6-8 weeks before changing the jewelry to allow the piercing to heal properly. If you experience any discomfort or pain while changing your labret piercing, stop immediately and seek advice from a professional piercer. It’s important to handle your labret piercing with care and follow proper aftercare instructions to promote healthy healing.

How to unscrew a labret piercing?

Here are the steps to safely unscrew a labret piercing:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent any bacteria from entering the piercing.
2. Gently hold the back of the labret stud with one hand and use the other hand to unscrew the ball from the post of the jewelry.
3. If the ball is difficult to unscrew, try using a clean cloth or latex gloves for a better grip.
4. Once the ball is unscrewed, gently pull the post of the labret stud out of the piercing.
5. Clean the jewelry and the area around the piercing with a saline solution or soap and water.

It is important to be gentle when unscrewing a labret piercing to avoid causing any pain or irritation to the piercing. If you experience any discomfort or resistance while unscrewing the ball, do not force it and seek the advice of a professional piercer.

Does a labret piercing hurt?

The pain level of a labret piercing can vary depending on a few factors, such as the person’s pain tolerance, the location of the piercing, and the experience level of the piercer. However, in general, a labret piercing is considered to be a relatively low-pain piercing compared to other types of piercings.

During the piercing process, there may be a brief moment of discomfort or pressure as the needle passes through the skin. Afterward, the area may be sore and tender for a few days, but this should subside with proper aftercare. It is important to choose a reputable and experienced piercer for your labret piercing to ensure that the process is safe and hygienic, and to follow proper aftercare instructions to minimize discomfort and promote healing.

What types of jewelry are suitable for a labret piercing?

There are several types of jewelry that are suitable for a labret piercing, including:

• Labret studs: These are the most common type of jewelry for a labret piercing. They consist of a straight post with a flat back and a decorative end that sits on the outside of the lip. Labret studs come in a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, titanium, and gold, and can be adorned with gems, beads, or other decorative elements.

• Labret Rings: Rings can also be worn in a labret piercing, but they are less common than labret studs. Rings can be circular, horseshoe-shaped, or C-shaped, and can be made of various materials, including stainless steel, titanium, and gold.

• Labret Barbells: Barbells are another type of jewelry that can be worn in a labret piercing. They consist of a straight or curved bar with a ball on each end. Barbells can be made of various materials, including stainless steel, titanium, and gold.