What is a bottom lip piercing?
A bottom lip piercing refers to lip piercings that are on the bottom lip, whether they are in the middle or on the side, horizontal or vertical. Common bottom lip piercing names include the Ashley lip piercing and the labret lip piercing.
Ashley piercing is the most popular bottom lip piercing. It is a single piercing that goes through the bottom lip and sits in the center. It suits most people and looks amazing.
In terms of location, we have middle bottom lip piercings (piercings in the middle of your bottom lip) and side bottom lip piercings.
Regarding the number of piercings, we have single bottom lip piercing, double bottom lip piercings, and quadruple bottom lip piercings.
1. Middle bottom lip piercing
1.1 Ashley lip piercing
The Ashley lip piercing is a single piercing to the center of the bottom lip and an exit at the back of the lip. It is commonly effective when used with studs as they tend to draw attention to the lower lip.
This piercing, also known as the inverted vertical labret, has a high pain level, mainly because it entails the perforation of a large part of the lip tissue and swelling after the piercing. The pain is rated at 6 on a scale of 1 to 10, with the healing time being between 8 and 10 weeks, although the inner part of the lip may take a bit longer to heal.
The most common piece of jewelry for this piercing is the labret stud, designed from 14 carats or higher of gold, titanium, surgical stainless steel, and pure sterling silver. The thickness of the jewelry worn can range between 14G and 18G.
Ensure that you get a professional to conduct this piercing since it needs correct placement with careful consideration for the nerve endings, gums, veins, and teeth.
1.2 Labret lip piercing
Labret piercing is common, and the piercing studs get their names from it. The style is a single perforation of the central part below the bottom lip—people who experience the labret rate the pain on the lower end of the pain scale.
In eight weeks, the wound from the piercing should have healed. Most people prefer the 14gauge with a length of 3/8 inches. The style is versatile, and you can opt for a piece of flat-back stud jewelry, captive beads rings, or a circular Barbell.
2. Bottom side lip piercing
2.1 Side labret lip piercing
Side labret is similar to labret lip piercing mentioned above, it is just that side labret sits on one side of our bottom lip instead of the center.
3. Double bottom lip piercing
3.1 Vertical labret lip piercing
A vertical labret is a distinct form of labret lip piercing. The piercing runs from the middle of the bottom lip to the outer and upper surface of the lower lip. In this type of piercing, the ends of the jewelry are visible from both sides.
An individual should expect a sharp pain that subsides in a short time. Within six to eight weeks, the piercing will start to heal. However, it takes four months at minimum to completely heal.
The curved Barbell is most suitable for a vertical labret piercing as it curves and fits the natural shape of an individual’s lips. The gauge can be a 14 or 16 gauge which may be 8mm to 12mm long depending on the client’s lips.
3.2 Snake bites piercing
Snake Bites piercings obtain the name from the look as it resembles the fangs of a snake. This style has perforations on each side of the lower lip, with each lip side piercing sitting equidistant from the center of the lower lip.
During piercing, you may feel a pinch for each perforation. However, the pain level of this style is a three out of ten, taking approximately three months to heal.
With the snake bites piercing, you can use the 14G or 16G size hollow needle. The labret bar is a safe category, but also the ring piercing that wraps around the lip is a good option.
3.3 Spider bites piercing
The Spider Bites resemble a real spider bite, thus the name. They are two piercings not far from each other, and they are both at the lower lip on either the right or left side of the lip.
The level of pain in this piercing depends on the technique of the piercer. If you get the piercing separately, the pain levels are on the lower end of the scale. However, if the piercings happen simultaneously, you may experience more pain.
The healing process takes place in twelve weeks. This piercing goes well with twister Barbells or labret studs with a gauge of 14.
3.4 Dolphin bites piercing
As the name suggests, Dolphin Bites aim at achieving a look that appears like the little mouth bite of the dolphin. The perforations are on the lower lip. They are close to each other, with each having an equal distance from the center of the lower lip.
This piercing can be painful since the perforations are simultaneous, a process that may increase the pain you feel since it covers a wide surface of nerve distribution. However, most people range from five on the pain scale.
It takes approximately eight weeks to recover from a dolphin bite piercing and up to six months to heal completely. The 16G is the most common piercing needle size, and the labret studs are most suitable for this style. You can insert a ring when you fully recover.
4. Quadruple bottom lip piercings
4.1 Shark bites piercing
Individuals who choose this rare kind of piercing aim to have their lips look like this sea animal has bitten them. It seems like a double spider bite piercing.
They are four distinct perforations, two on the right side and two on the left side of the lower lip. The piercing may be painful due to the number of perforations your skin has to endure. The level could range from a six out of ten at the least.
However, your pain tolerance levels will come to play. It may take up to six months to heal, and a Barbell is a good choice, especially for people with fuller lips. The labret stud is also a good choice. Use the 1.2mm by 8mm size needle and jewelry.
How much is a bottom lip piercing?
The cost mostly depends on the location and price of the jewelry. Most stores charge between $30-$80. Some websites list their charges, and it would be wise to go through them before visiting the store.
How long does it take for your bottom lip piercing to heal?
The bottom lip piercing healing time is about 6 to 8 weeks. For some people, it may take less (3 weeks) or more time (up to 3 months) to heal all the way.
Bottom lip piercing jewelry
1. Bottom lip piercing ring
When shopping for lip piercing jewelry, you may come across classic lip rings. When they are inserted properly, they create a complete, closed shape. They may be a complete circle, or they may take other fun shapes like a heart, moon, or oval.
They are typically just metal hoops, which is ideal if you’re looking for something simple.
Pros
- Lip rings and hoops are classic and timeless
- They offer a clean look.
- They’re also less likely to get caught on clothing because of their closed design.
- They usually remain securely in place
- They are comfortable.
Cons
- Thin hoops can be bent very easily
- They can be hard to insert at first
- You may need to be careful to avoid distorting the shape as you open and close the jewelry.
2. Bottom lip piercing stud
These are commonly used for lip piercings. Much like stud earrings, they have a straight bar. There is usually a small gem at the top. There are also curved versions that add a bit more security.
Pros:
- They heal relatively quickly
- They don’t cause much discomfort
- They aren’t extremely noticeable
Cons:
- They can come out more easily than lip rings
- If not cleaned regularly, they can get infected
3. Curved barbells
Curved barbells are another popular choice among all types of lip jewelry. They have a curve that takes the shape of an arch with two balls on either end. You can go with a traditional round bead or opt for other shapes and accents.
Pros:
- They are a great option, especially when you’re going for a double or vertical bottom lip piercing.
- Barbell jewelry can be a great statement piece and can stand out
- The curved shape can make lip piercings more comfortable
- They are available in a very wide variety of designs
Cons:
- They may not be the best option if you’re looking for something subtle
- They also may get caught easily on items like clothing.
- They heal more slowly than studs
- They tend to be prone to migration or rejection
Recommended materials for bottom lip piercing jewelry
When buying medusa lip piercing jewelry, one should bear the following in mind. The material for the jewelry should be nanocomposite and inactive.
1. Implant-Grade Titanium
Titanium is an element that is completely hypoallergenic, so it’s probably the best material for lip piercings, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Implant-grade titanium is the purest form and will not change or corrode if it’s exposed to skin or bodily fluids. Implant-grade titanium jewelry is durable, hypoallergic, lead-free, nickel free, and non-corrosive.
Implant-grade titanium is often marketed as ASTM F-136 titanium. Compared to ASTM F-136 titanium, G23 titanium is not an implant grade of titanium.
Price Range: About $10-$20.
Pros:
- Approved by the Association of Professional Piercers
- Won’t cause allergic reactions
- Is scratch-resistant and won’t fade
Cons:
- Not as valuable as gold, silver, or platinum
- Doesn’t sparkle quite as much as other metals
2. 14K or 18K Gold
If you’re looking for a glittering, valuable metal for your lip piercing jewelry, either 14K or 18K gold may be your answer.
It is also one of the best metals for lip piercings that are highly recommended not only by piercing experts but also doctors. Its excellent quality of being inert makes it suitable for first piercings.
However, gold is a fairly soft metal, so it doesn’t stand up to scratches and excessive wear. Compared to 14K gold, 18K gold is more prone to being affected by everyday use as it is softer and is closer to being pure 24K gold.
Both of these metals include other metal types in order to make them stronger. In order to avoid skin reactions, look for nickel-free metals.
Price Range: About $30-$200.
Pros:
- One of the most valuable materials
- Will not easily tarnish
- Offers plenty of sparkles
- Is easy to engrave or use to set stones
Cons:
- May contain non-hypoallergenic metals
- 18K gold in particular is not very scratch resistant
3. Platinum
Platinum is a precious metal, so it’s one of the pricier options on the list. It’s completely hypoallergenic, so it’s safe for even very sensitive skin. Its brilliant luster makes it a good choice for those seeking a sparkly, high-end look.
Price Range: About $40-$200.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic and non-reactive
- Has a brilliant shine
- Is a very valuable material
Cons:
- Is a lot heavier than other metals
- It’s uncommon, so your jewelry choices might be limited
4. Surgical Stainless Steel
Lots of new piercings are done in stainless steel. This material is affordable and typically doesn’t cause reactions. However, it contains a small amount of nickel, so if you have a nickel allergy, it might be best to choose something else.
It is incredibly resistant to corrosion and will keep its shine for years.
If you’re considering steel, 316L or 316 LVM steel is probably your best choice. Both names stand for the same surgical steel material, but the “VM” stands for”vacuum melt,” or the way the steel is produced.
Price Range: About $10-$40.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Common enough that you’ll have plenty of jewelry choices
- Extremely durable and resistant to damage and corrosion
Cons:
- May cause reactions in those with nickel allergies
- Not considered as valuable as some other materials
5. Niobium
Niobium is also one of the best metals for medusa lip piercings. It is a highly pure, hypoallergenic metal that’s a lot like titanium. However, it is heavier than titanium and more expensive to produce, so it tends to be harder to find in the world of body jewelry.
Price Range: About $20-$60.
Pros:
- Won’t react when exposed to bodily fluids
- Completely hypoallergenic
- Has a brilliant shine
Cons:
- Rare enough that your jewelry choices might be limited
- Heavier than titanium
How to care for your lip piercing?
- Take care to avoid contaminating the piercing.
- Avoid touching it or applying makeup very close to it.
- Avoid getting in water that might be dirty.
- Clean your piercing twice per day using a saline/salt solution or a piercing aftercare spray.
- When brushing your teeth and cleaning your mouth, use an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash.
- And of course, make sure to avoid snagging on clothes or towels.
- Don’t move the piercing before it heals. Pulling on a piercing early in healing is painful, but it also can get in the way of healing or damage the piercing itself.
How to clean your lip piercing?
- Make a salt solution by mixing 1/2 teaspoon of salt with one cup of water. Stir the solution until it dissolves. As an alternative, you can buy ready-to-use piercing aftercare sprays. If you see signs of infection, you can also use antiseptic solutions, such as betadine, isopropyl alcohol, or diluted hydrogen peroxide.
- Soak a cotton ball in the solution and dab it around the piercing site. Don’t remove the jewelry!
- Take clean gauze or tissue and pat the area dry.
Your piercer should give you detailed instructions on keeping your piercing clean once the piercing has been placed.
Make sure you start carefully cleaning your piercing as soon as you get it. With attention and regular care, your piercing should heal quickly, and you can enjoy the new addition to your look!
How many times a day do you soak a bottom lip piercing with sea salt solution?
In general, cleaning it at least 2 times a day with a salt solution or a ready-to-use piercing aftercare spray will work. And of course, ensure your hands are clean before touching your piercing.
What is the bottom lip piercing called?
Ashley piercing is the most popular bottom lip piercing. It is a single piercing that goes through the bottom lip and sits in the center. It suits most people and looks amazing.
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What are the lip piercing types?
