Piercing Tips

Lip piercing is not an entirely new concept; in fact, it’s been practiced since many centuries ago as a religious custom and as status symbol. Others do it for aesthetic reasons. Some members of the Makolo Tribe of Malawi, for instance, pierce their lips to look beautiful. The Mayans and the Aztecs pierce labrets or lip pins of gold, jade, or obsidian.

 This type of body piercing has become more popular today. Where you choose to pierce your lips depend entirely on you. You have the liberty to choose which part of your lips you want pierced — the upper, the lower, at the center, at the side or somewhere in between. You can also use just about any kind of jewelry but the most commonly used are studs, tusks, spikes, barbells, or rings. There are some labrets that come without a ring, but with fishtail or disk backs. Fishtail backs use a wire that is twisted and then lies at right angels to the piercing. Disk backs have a metal screw, or in the case of a barbell, its end, that covers the post.

 This type of body piercing requires proper hygiene. Considering the fact that you will be introducing a foreign object into a sensitive part of your body, it’s only proper that you entrust this thing to a professional. Remember it takes around two to six months before the pierced body part heals completely, but you can hasten the healing process by taking Zinc lozenges and Vitamin C. After the piercing, observe yourself closely for any developing signs of infection. Use a mouthwash to prevent the growth of bacteria around the area, and refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol.

 Lip piercing may not be for everybody, but if you decide to go for it, keep these things in mind.