The Ultimate Guide to Snake Bite Piercings: Everything You Need to Know

Snake bite piercings have gained immense popularity in recent years as a bold and stylish way to express yourself. This unique form of body modification involves two symmetrical piercings on the lower lip, resembling snake fangs. If you're considering getting snake bite piercings, it's crucial to gather all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through every aspect of snake bite piercings. From the procedure itself to the healing process and aftercare, we will provide detailed insights and answer all your burning questions.

What is a snake bite piercing?

Inspired by the appearance of snake fangs, a snake bite piercing consists of two lip piercings symmetrically placed near the outer corners of the lower lip.

How wide you want your snake bite piercings to be placed is a matter of personal preference. With some opting for their piercings to be placed closer to the corners of the mouth while others prefer them a bit closer together, almost like vampire fangs.

Snakebite piercings can be pierced with either rings or labret studs, with both capturing a different and unique look.

How are snake bite piercings done?

First and foremost, it's crucial to choose a professional piercing studio like Pierced to ensure a safe and hygienic experience.

After you arrive, you'll discuss placement with your professional piercing artist. Choosing the right spacing that achieves the look you’re going for is important.

Next, you'll pick your jewelry. Be sure to choose something you’re ok with wearing throughout the healing process!

Finally, your piercer will disinfect your skin, and insert two brand new, sterilized hollow needles into your lip in the agreed-upon spots, often using clamps to ensure the needles are placed correctly.

Once the piercings are done, the jewelry will be inserted.

The process typically takes a few minutes per piercing, and the piercer will provide you with detailed instructions on aftercare.

Do snake bite piercings hurt?

While snake bite piercings may sound intense, the pain is often on the lower end of the threshold. If you’ve had any cartilage piercings in the past, a lip piercing should be a breeze! Snake bite and other lip piercings are only slightly more painful than earlobe piercings as the skin in this area is soft and doesn’t contain too many nerve endings. Often, people find the clamps more painful than the needle itself.

Snake bite piercing aftercare

Once you’ve left the piercing parlour with your new jewelry, it’s important to stick to a strict aftercare regiment to assure your piercing heals correctly.

First, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching or cleaning your piercings.

Next, you will want to use a saline solution to soak the outside if your piercings at least twice a day. You can use a ready-made piercing solution or create your own using pure sea salt and warm water. In addition to cleaning the outside of your piercings, you’ll want to rinse your mouth with salt water after eating or drinking.

It’s also best to avoid alcohol, cigarettes, or spicy food during the healing process as these can irritate your piercings and delay the healing process. Other possible irritants are toothpastes or breath mints with super strong mint flavours. Instead, opt for a toothpaste with a milder flavour until your piercing is healed.

You also want to avoid:

• getting makeup or other skin care products in your piercings
• swimming in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water 
• oral contact with potentially contaminated items such as cigarettes, straws, or kissing

Healing Process and Timeline

The healing process for snake bite piercings is a crucial stage that requires patience and diligent care. Initially, some swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common, but they should subside within a few weeks. It's important to avoid touching the piercings with dirty hands, as this can introduce bacteria and delay the healing process. Sticking to your aftercare routine will help assure your snake bites heal properly and as quickly as possible.

Snake bite or other lip piercings usually take about two to four months to heal completely. 

What to do if you suspect an infection

Some redness, swelling, and discharge are common for the first week after getting any piercing. However, if you notice any of these symptoms persisting after the first week it may be a good idea to check in with your piercer or doctor just in case. If you notice the skin around your piercing feeling hot or develop a fever, contact a doctor immediately as these could be a sign of a more serious infection!

Jewelry for snake bite piercings

Rings, horseshoes, and labret studs are the most popular options for snake bite piercings. Whichever ones you decide on, make sure to consult with your piercer on selecting the right size. Jewellery that doesn’t fit correctly could end up irritating or harming your teeth or gums!

Generally, darker studs and rings tend to create a more dramatic look while lighter colours will appear more subtle. We’ve got a lovely selection of high-end and quality body jewellery for facial piercings at Pierced in Newmarket, check out some of our selection to get inspired!

Conclusion

Snake bite piercings are a trendy and fashionable way to express your unique style. By following the comprehensive information and aftercare tips provided in this guide, you can ensure a successful and comfortable piercing experience. When choosing a piercing studio, consider reputable ones like Pierced that prioritize safety and offer expert guidance. Remember, proper aftercare is key to a speedy and complication-free healing process. Embrace your individuality with snake bite piercings, and enjoy your stylish new look!