Face piercings are a form of body art where specific areas on the face are pierced to wear jewelry, like rings, studs, or bars. People get face piercings for various reasons – to express their personality, enhance their look, or simply because they like the way it looks. While some people have one or two face piercings, others may have multiple, creating unique designs across their face. If you’ve ever been curious about face piercings, this guide will give you all the information you need!

1. Why Do People Get Face Piercings?

Face piercings have been a part of many cultures around the world. For some, piercings are a way to express individuality or to mark a personal milestone. For others, they’re simply a way to enhance their beauty or try out a trendy style. No matter the reason, getting a face piercing can be an exciting decision, and with the right information, it can be a great experience!

2. Popular Types of Face Piercings

Let’s go over the most common types of face piercings. Each piercing type has its own style, level of pain, and healing time. Knowing what to expect can help you decide which face piercing is right for you.

Nose Piercings

• Description: Nose piercings are one of the most popular face piercings around the world. They’re usually placed on one side of the nostril but can also be done in the center (septum).
• Jewelry Options: Common jewelry types include studs, rings, and small hoops.
• Pain Level: Nose piercings can cause a pinch, but it’s over quickly.
• Healing Time: Typically, nose piercings take 4 to 6 months to heal.

Eyebrow Piercings

• Description: Eyebrow piercings are placed along the eyebrow line, usually on the outer edge. They can be horizontal or vertical.
• Jewelry Options: Curved bars and small rings are popular choices for eyebrow piercings.
• Pain Level: Eyebrow piercings are often rated as moderate in pain.
• Healing Time: These piercings usually heal in 6 to 8 weeks.

Lip Piercings

• Description: Lip piercings can be done on the top or bottom lip, on one side, both sides, or even in the center.
• Jewelry Options: Small rings, studs, or labret bars are commonly used.
• Pain Level: Lip piercings are generally described as low to moderate in pain.
• Healing Time: Lip piercings typically heal in about 6 to 8 weeks.

Tongue Piercings

• Description: Though not technically a face piercing, tongue piercings are popular and noticeable when speaking or smiling.
• Jewelry Options: Barbell-style jewelry is most common for tongue piercings.
• Pain Level: Tongue piercings may hurt a bit, but they heal quickly.
• Healing Time: Healing usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks.

3. How to Choose the Right Face Piercing for You

Choosing a face piercing can be a big decision. Think about your lifestyle, pain tolerance, and personal style. For example, if you work in a job that doesn’t allow visible piercings, you may want to choose a piercing that’s easy to hide, like a tongue or septum piercing. If you’re looking for something bold, an eyebrow or lip piercing might be the way to go.

4. What to Expect During a Face Piercing

Getting a face piercing is usually quick and straightforward. Here’s a simple rundown of what typically happens:

1. Choosing the Spot: You’ll decide exactly where you want your piercing with the help of a professional piercer.
2. Cleaning the Area: The piercer will clean and disinfect the area to prevent infection.
3. Marking the Spot: They’ll mark the spot where the piercing will go so you can see exactly where it’ll be.
4. Piercing: Using a clean, sterilized needle, the piercer will quickly make the piercing. It might pinch, but it’s over quickly.
5. Adding Jewelry: They’ll put in the jewelry right after piercing, so it can begin healing properly.
6. Aftercare Instructions: The piercer will give you detailed instructions on how to care for your new piercing.

5. Tips for Taking Care of Face Piercings

Aftercare is one of the most important parts of having a face piercing. Here are some tips to help keep your piercing clean and free from infection:

• Clean Daily: Clean your piercing with a saline solution twice a day to keep bacteria away.
• Avoid Touching: Try not to touch your piercing with dirty hands, as this can lead to infection.
• Avoid Makeup: Don’t put makeup around the area until it’s fully healed.
• Stay Away from Pools: Avoid swimming in pools or hot tubs, as they can contain bacteria.
• Watch for Signs of Infection: If you notice redness, swelling, or pus, contact a professional for advice.

6. How to Choose a Piercer

Choosing the right piercer is key to a safe and successful piercing experience. Here’s what to look for:

• Cleanliness: Make sure the shop looks clean and the piercer uses sterilized equipment.
• Experience: Ask about their experience with face piercings and if they have any photos of past work.
• Reviews: Check online reviews to see what others say about the shop.
• Comfort: You should feel comfortable asking questions and making requests.

7. How to Style Face Piercings with Jewelry

Once your piercing is healed, you can have fun styling it with different jewelry! There are many options, from simple studs to bold hoops and unique designs. For example:

• Minimalist Look: Simple studs and small hoops create a clean, classic look.
• Statement Pieces: Large hoops or unique shapes can make your piercing stand out.
• Mixed Metals: If you have multiple piercings, mixing gold and silver can create an interesting contrast.

8. Face Piercings: Pros and Cons

Like any body modification, face piercings have pros and cons. Here’s a quick look:

Pros

• Adds a unique touch to your look.
• Many jewelry options for personalization.
• Easy to remove if you change your mind.

Cons

• Risk of infection if not cared for properly.
• Some workplaces may not allow visible piercings.
• Healing time can be longer for certain piercings.

9. What to Do If Your Face Piercing Gets Infected

Infections can happen, even with the best care. If you notice pain, swelling, or pus, take the following steps:

1. Clean with Saline Solution: Use a clean saline solution to rinse the area.
2. Avoid Removing the Jewelry: Keep the jewelry in unless a professional advises otherwise.
3. See a Piercer or Doctor: If it doesn’t improve, consult your piercer or doctor.

10. When It’s Time to Change Face Piercing Jewelry

It’s best to wait until your piercing is fully healed before changing the jewelry. For most face piercings, this can take several weeks or months. Changing too early can irritate the piercing and cause it to become infected. Once it’s healed, make sure you’re using clean hands and jewelry that’s made of high-quality metal.

Conclusion: Is a Face Piercing Right for You?

Face piercings are a fun way to express yourself and try out new styles. Whether you go for a small, subtle nose stud or a bold eyebrow ring, there’s a piercing to suit every taste. Remember, though, that face piercings require proper care to stay healthy and looking their best. By following this guide, you’ll be ready to decide if a face piercing is right for you – and if it is, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to take care of it.