Body modifications have always been a way to express individuality and lip piercings remain one of the most stylish choices. Among them, piercing inside lip is gaining rapid popularity. From bold looks like the vertical labret piercing to subtle styles like the smiley piercing, there are many variations. This guide covers different types of lip piercings, the procedure, healing, jewelry, risks and FAQs — everything you need before making a decision.
f you’re exploring unique body modifications, our detailed guide on Piercing for Inverted Nipple: Complete Guide, Types, Cost & Healing (2026) offers everything you need to know before making a decision.
Types of Inside Lip Piercings
When people search for lip piercing types, they often come across multiple names. Each has a distinct look and placement:
1. Labret Piercing
The common labret piercing is situated near to the gum line, just beneath the lower lip. Moreover it is one of the most common types of lip piercing and provides a large selection of jewelry options.
2. Vertical Labret Piercing
In this style, the needle goes vertically through the lower lip, with both ends of the jewelry visible. It may take longer to heal but it’s fashionable.
3. Ashley Piercing
The inverted vertical labret, another name for this piercing, enters through the lip’s surface and exits inside the mouth.
4. Jestrum Piercing
Placed in the upper lip exiting through the philtrum, this piercing resembles a vertical labret but sits on top.
5. Smiley Piercing (Upper Frenulum)
The smiley one of the most popular inside lip piercings is placed on the thin tissue that runs from your upper lip to your gums. It’s only visible when you smile.
6. Frowny Piercing (Lower Frenulum)
Situated on the lower frenulum, it resembles the smiling. It’s more discreet but equally stylish.
7. Side Lip Piercing
Individuality has always been expressed through body alterations and also lip piercings continue to be among the most fashionable options.
Furthermore understanding the titles of various lip piercings helps you in selecting the one that best suits your comfort level and also sense of style.
Want to explore different styles? Check out our complete guide on Nose Piercing For Nose Types: Find Size, Names, Gauge and Price.
How Inside Lip Piercing Is Done
To ensure safety, professional piercers follow strict hygiene rules. In addition the procedure for most piercing inside lip styles includes:
- Sterilizing the area and tools
- Marking the piercing spot
- Using a hollow sterilized needle
- Inserting the chosen jewelry immediately
The procedure takes just a few minutes. On the pain scale, side lip piercing and labret piercing are considered moderate, while vertical labret or Ashley piercing may feel slightly more intense.
Healing Time and Aftercare
The average healing time for inside lip piercing is 6 to 12 weeks depending on the style and aftercare.
Do’s for Faster Healing
- Use a saline solution or alcohol free mouthwash
- Take soft foods for the first week.
- Brush teeth gently to avoid irritation
- Rotate jewelry only when recommended by the piercer
Don’ts During Healing
- Avoid spicy or acidic foods
- Don’t play with the jewelry
- Skip alcohol and smoking during the first weeks
- Don’t change jewelry before healing completes
Risks and Side Effects
While different types of lip piercings look stylish, they carry some risks:
- Jewelry rubbing can cause enamel damage and gum recession.
- Swelling, redness or infection if not cleaned properly
- Allergic reactions to low quality metals
- Scarring or migration of piercing holes
To minimize risks:
- Always choose a certified piercer
- Use high quality jewelry (titanium, bioplast)
- Follow aftercare guidelines
According to the Cleveland Clinic lip piercings can increase the risk of gum recession and enamel damage.
Jewelry Options for Lip Piercings
Your choice of jewelry has an impact on healing and comfort:
- Labret studs – simple and comfortable for beginners
- Captive bead rings – versatile and stylish
- Bioplast jewelry – flexible, safe for gums, ideal for healing
- Titanium – lightweight, hypoallergenic and strongly recommended
The right lip piercing jewelry offers faster healing and fewer issues.
Cost of Inside Lip Piercing
The piercing inside lip cost depends on location, studio reputation and jewelry type:
- USA: $40–$100
- UK: £30–£80
Gold or titanium jewelry may be more costly. Moreover studios in bigger cities charge more than local stores.
Pro Tips to Reduce Risks
- Research the best studios in your area before booking
- Firstly ask about sterilization methods
- Afterwards never compromise on the quality of your jewelry.
- Then take the cleaning products which are recommended.
- Finally avoid cheap, unverified piercers
FAQs – Piercing Inside Lip
Does inside lip piercing hurt a lot?
Most people describe it as a quick sting and less painful than expected.
After receiving a lip piercing can I eat?
Yes, but during the first week, reduce your diet to soft foods and stay away from hot acidic foods.
What signs point to a piercing infection?
An infection is indicated by persistent swelling, pus or terrible pain. Consult the doctor or your piercer immediately.
Can I kiss with a fresh piercing?
Kissing till the healing process is over is the greatest way to avoid exposing yourself to bacteria.
What is the fastest healing lip piercing?
The labret piercing typically heals more quickly than vertical.
Are there different types of lip piercings for men and women?
The majority of designs such as happy and side lip piercings are gender neutral. Jewelry choice can make them more feminine.
How long for lip piercing to heal?
On average around 2–3 months.
How much is a lip piercing?
Most studios charge $40–$100.
What is a lip piercing called?
Common types include labret, vertical labret, Ashley, smiley, frowny and jestrum.
Do lip piercings close?
Yes they can close quickly if jewelry is removed.
What gauge is a lip piercing?
Most are 14G or 16G.
What is the duration required for a lip piercing to recover?
It can start closing within hours to days after removal.
Can you have a lip piercing with braces?
Yes but it needs extra care to avoid irritation.
Do lip piercings damage teeth?
They can, especially if jewelry constantly rubs against enamel or gums.
What is the piercing on the lip called?
It depends — could be labret, side lip, or Monroe.
When can you change your lip piercing?
Only after recovering completely, which normally takes 8–12 weeks.
How to reduce lip piercing swelling?
Use cold compresses, saline rinses and avoid from spicy foods.
What does a lip piercing mean?
One can display their uniqueness and sense of style in this way.
Are lip piercings safe?
Yes, if done by a professional with proper aftercare.
Does a lip piercing leave a scar?
After removal it can leave a small scar.
Conclusion of Piercing Inside Lip
In conclusion getting an inner lip piercing is a risky choice that improves your look. There are several varieties of lip piercings to pick from whether you like the simple smiling piercing or the eye catching vertical labret piercing. Moreover with proper aftercare quality jewelry and a professional piercer you can enjoy your new look safely and confidently.
