WHAT IS A SNAKEBITE PIERCING?

Snakebite piercings are an extremely popular piercing, comprising of two lower lip piercings on either side of the mouth. The piercings are initially performed using two flat-backed labret studs, with a bit of extra length to compensate for initial swelling and to make cleaning easier.

HEALING TIME FOR SNAKEBITE PIERCING?

This initial swelling generally lasts for approximately 2 to 4 weeks with the average time between jewellery changes of 3 weeks.  While full healing time generally takes 6 to 8 weeks, there are a number of jewellery options available after the initial swelling has gone down. There are shorter lengths of flat-backed labret studs to which a variety of ball sizes, jewels and spikes can be added, as well as circular barbells, ball closure rings and seamless rings in either 16 gauge or 14 gauge. The initial swelling can be treated effectively by taking Ibuprofen 2 to 3 times a day for the first 3 days, in addition to the basic aftercare. There are 2 options for external aftercare, the first being saline solution, which is available over the counter in the form of contact lens solution. The other option is to make a sea salt and warm water solution using ¼ – ½ teaspoon of sea salt in a coffee cup of warm water. Either solution is to be applied using a cotton bud to gently wipe the outside of the piercing as well as the jewellery itself. Internal cleaning for Snakebite piercings involves rinsing with an alcohol-free mouthwash both morning and night, as well as after meals. In addition to this, rinsing with the same sea salt and warm water solution mentioned above used externally can increase the speed that the piercings heal.  Always be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before cleaning any piercing.