Snake Bite Piercings – 6 Simple Questions

Body piercings, especially lip piercings, have risen in popularity quite a bit over the past several years. People are just clamoring for new ways to decorate and adorn their bodies. Lip piercings can be that little extra touch that spices up an appearance and can really shake a person out of their boring, old look. Snake bite piercings, in particular, are viewed as easy changes that can radically alter how a person looks and is perceived. However, before embarking on any form of body ornamentation, it is important to understand the facts about snakebite piercings in order to make a safe and informed decision. Here are six answers to common questions about snake bite piercings.

What is a snakebite piercing?

It is a type of lip piercing where a pair of holes is made, forming a type of “snake bite” pattern.

Where is a snakebite piercing located?

This type of piercing is located on the lower lip. The pair of holes is usually place on opposite ends of the lip.

How long does it take for a snakebite piercing to heal?

Healing times greatly differ depending on the health of the individual and if the correct measures are being taken to ensure proper healing occurs. Times usually range between three and ten weeks for this lip piercing to heal fully. Scar tissue may be present at the piercing site but for the most part the hole will be healed enough to ward off future infections.

What measures do I need to take after a snake bite piercing?

Aftercare for most lip piercings consist of daily soaks, usually two to three times a day, in saline solution. This allows any biological matter that is clogging the piercing site to become dislodged. A soft cotton swab should be utilized to remove this material after soaking in saline for several minutes. Piercing jewelry should also be rotated and manipulated in order to clean it with the solution so that any material adhering to it does not necrotize and cause infection.

What jewelry is initially used in a snakebite piercing?

The exact type of jewelry differs from providers, usually being a stud or ring, but is almost universally oversized to compensate for swelling. Larger jewelry allows the body’s natural inflammatory response to occur and not interfere with the piercing jewelry. Typical metals for the initial piercing range from surgical steel to titanium. These metals are selected because they have antibacterial properties.

When should I purchase new jewelry for this lip piercing?

New jewelry can be purchased the day of the piercing but it is typically recommended to hold off on any purchases until after the piercing has had time to heal. Not only does this enable you to actually use your purchased jewelry but it enables you to buy the correct size.

Snake bite piercings are popular, especially with youths. However, it always pays to be well informed before making any alteration to your body. Consult with a piercing professional should any questions arise before, during or after receiving the piercing.

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