Lip & Labret Piercings

Your piercer will examine your lip and oral anatomy, discuss your desired placement, and mark the position with a surgical marker. You will check the placement in a mirror and approve it before proceeding. The piercing is performed with a single-use sterile needle and takes about 2 to 3 seconds. Jewelry is inserted immediately — typically a flat-back labret stud in implant-grade titanium sized with extra length to accommodate initial swelling.

The full appointment takes 15 to 25 minutes. Afterward, your piercer will review aftercare instructions specific to oral piercings, including what to eat and drink (and what to avoid) during the first few days. You will leave with clear guidance on keeping the piercing clean and healthy.

Most lip piercings start with implant-grade titanium flat-back labret studs. The flat disc sits comfortably against the inside of the lip and minimizes contact with teeth and gums. Once healed, options expand to include rings (for labret, Monroe, and snakebite placements), decorative ends with gemstones, opals, or custom designs, and different materials including 14k gold and niobium. The initial piercing price includes a starter piece of implant-grade titanium.

Lip piercings are generally moderate on the pain scale — about a 4 to 5 out of 10 for most placements. The tissue around the mouth is sensitive but the piercing is quick. Most people describe it as a sharp pinch followed by immediate warmth and swelling. Medusa and philtrum piercings tend to be on the upper end of that range due to the density of nerve endings in the upper lip area.

Healing for lip piercings takes 6 to 12 weeks for the external portion, though internal tissue heals faster. Expect swelling for the first 3 to 5 days — lip piercings swell more than most piercings, which is why the initial jewelry is sized longer. Once swelling subsides, you will come back for a downsize to a shorter post. During healing, you may experience some difficulty eating, increased saliva production, and mild tenderness.

External care: clean twice daily with sterile saline solution. Internal care: rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash or saline after eating and drinking anything other than water during the first 2 weeks. Avoid spicy foods, very hot foods, and alcohol during the initial healing period. Do not play with the jewelry with your tongue or teeth. Avoid kissing and oral contact until the piercing has healed.

Come back at 2 to 4 weeks for a downsize appointment. The longer initial post is necessary for swelling but becomes a problem once swelling subsides — it can catch on teeth and cause irritation. Downsizing to a shorter post at the right time is essential for comfortable long-term wear.

Lip piercings at Bárû Mu range from $40 to $70 depending on the specific placement and jewelry selection. Paired piercings (snakebites, angel bites, spider bites) are priced per piercing, but we offer package discounts for multiple piercings in one session. The price includes implant-grade titanium starter jewelry. Premium upgrades are available.

How old do you have to be to get a lip piercing?

You must be at least 16 with a parent or legal guardian present and consenting, or 18 with valid photo ID. Government-issued identification is required for all clients.

Will a lip piercing damage my teeth or gums?

Proper placement and appropriate jewelry minimize this risk significantly. Flat-back labret studs are designed to sit flush against the inner lip with minimal tooth contact. Rings can cause more gum and enamel wear if worn long-term in certain placements. Your piercer will discuss the best jewelry options for your specific placement.

Can I eat normally after getting a lip piercing?

For the first few days, stick to soft foods and avoid spicy, acidic, or very hot items. After the initial swelling subsides (3 to 5 days), you can gradually return to your normal diet. Most people are eating normally within a week.

When can I change my lip piercing jewelry?

Wait until the piercing is fully healed — typically 8 to 12 weeks minimum. Come in for an assessment before changing jewelry yourself. The first jewelry change should ideally be done by your piercer to ensure proper sizing.

Does a lip piercing leave a scar if I take it out?

A small mark is common, similar to an enlarged pore. Most lip piercing scars fade to nearly invisible over time. The scar is typically much less noticeable than people worry about.

Can I get a lip piercing if I have braces?

We generally recommend waiting until braces are removed, as the brackets and wires can interfere with lip piercing jewelry and create complications during healing. Once your braces are off and your gums have recovered, you are good to go.