When I first started looking at lip piercings, I thought there were only a few choices. A simple stud below the lower lip, a Monroe-style piercing above the upper lip, or maybe a pair of snake bites. Once I looked at the different placements, I found that there are many more lip piercing types than I expected.
The names can also get confusing. A Medusa and a Jestrum are both centered around the upper lip, while Monroe and Madonna piercings sit above the lip on opposite sides. Snake bites, spider bites, dolphin bites, shark bites, and canine bites all describe different combinations of piercings.
I put this guide together to make those names easier to follow. I cover the main lip piercing styles, where they sit, what jewelry they use, how I would compare pain and healing, and what I would think about before choosing one.
Lip Piercing Types at a Glance
| Lip piercing type | Placement | Typical jewelry | Single or multiple |
| Labret | Center below the lower lip | Flat-back labret | Single |
| Side labret | Off-center below the lower lip | Flat-back labret | Single |
| Vertical labret | Vertically through the lower lip | Curved barbell | Single |
| Lowbret | Lower than a standard labret | Labret stud | Single |
| Ashley | Center of the lower lip | Flat-back labret | Single |
| Medusa | Center above the upper lip | Flat-back labret | Single |
| Jestrum | Vertically through the upper lip | Curved barbell | Single |
| Monroe | Above the upper lip, usually left side | Labret stud | Single |
| Madonna | Above the upper lip, usually right side | Labret stud | Single |
| Dahlia | At the corners of the mouth | Labret studs | Usually double |
| Smiley | Upper lip frenulum | Small ring | Single |
| Snake bites | One on each side below the lower lip | Labret studs or rings | Double |
| Spider bites | Two close together on one side of the lower lip | Labret studs | Double |
| Angel bites | One above each side of the upper lip | Labret studs | Double |
| Dolphin bites | Two close together below the center of the lower lip | Labret studs | Double |
| Shark bites | Two on each side below the lower lip | Labret studs or rings | Four |
| Canine bites | Upper and lower paired placements | Labret jewelry | Four |
| Cyber bites | Centered upper and lower placements | Labret jewelry | Double |
The exact names can vary between studios and piercing communities, so I would always show a reference photo during a consultation if I wanted a particular look.
What Is a Lip Piercing?
A lip piercing is a piercing placed on, through, above, below, or around the lip area.
That means the term covers several very different placements. A standard labret, for example, passes through the area below the lower lip, while a Monroe sits above the upper lip. A vertical labret follows a different path and keeps both ends of the jewelry visible.
Some lip piercings also have jewelry inside the mouth. That makes jewelry size, placement, oral hygiene, and later downsizing especially important.
Main Types of Lip Piercings
Labret Piercing
The standard labret is one of the lip piercing styles I would consider first if I wanted a classic lower-lip look.
It is placed in the center below the lower lip. The outside usually has a small decorative end, while a flat disc sits inside the mouth.
I like the flexibility of this placement because I can keep it simple with a small stud or change the look after healing with suitable jewelry.
A flat-back labret is a common jewelry choice for this placement.
One thing I would watch closely is the position of the inside disc. If the jewelry repeatedly rubs against my teeth or gums, I would have the fit checked rather than ignoring it.
Side Labret Piercing
A side labret is similar to a standard labret, but it sits to the left or right of the center of the lower lip.
I like this style because it can work well as a single piercing while also leaving room for future combinations.
A small flat-back stud gives it a clean look. After healing, suitable jewelry can give it a more noticeable appearance.
The placement should still be planned around the shape of the lip and the position of the teeth and gums.
Vertical Labret Piercing
The vertical labret is one of the lip piercing styles I find especially interesting.
Instead of entering the mouth, the jewelry passes vertically through the lower lip, with one end visible on the upper part of the lip and the other visible below it.
A curved barbell is commonly used for this placement. Both ends remain visible, which gives it a very different appearance from a standard labret.
Another feature I would consider is that the jewelry does not have the same internal-mouth setup as a traditional labret. That can make the dental-contact question different, although proper placement and jewelry fit still matter.
Lowbret Piercing
A lowbret is a variation of the standard labret that sits lower on the face, closer to the chin.
I would consider this if I wanted a lower and more unusual version of a traditional labret.
Because the placement is lower, anatomy matters a lot. I would not choose the position from a photo alone.
A professional piercer can check whether there is enough suitable tissue and whether the jewelry will sit comfortably.
Ashley Piercing
The Ashley piercing is a centered horizontal lip piercing through the lower lip.
From the front, I would see a single decorative end directly on the lower lip. The other end sits inside the mouth.
This gives the Ashley a clean, centered appearance.
Because jewelry enters the mouth, I would pay close attention to fit and tooth or gum contact. A piercing that looks perfect from the front can still cause trouble if the internal jewelry repeatedly presses against oral tissue.
Medusa Piercing
The Medusa piercing is placed in the center above the upper lip, in the philtrum groove below the nose.
It is one of the most recognizable centered upper-lip piercings.
I like this placement because it creates a strong point of symmetry on the face. A small stud can make it look subtle, while a decorative end can make it much more noticeable.
The Medusa is also called a philtrum piercing. These two names are commonly used for the same basic placement.
Jestrum Piercing
A Jestrum is similar to a vertical version of the Medusa.
The piercing passes vertically through the upper lip, with jewelry visible both above and on the lip itself.
This gives me a more noticeable look than a standard Medusa because there are two visible jewelry ends.
I would treat the Jestrum as a placement that needs careful anatomy assessment. The shape and thickness of the upper lip can affect how the jewelry sits.
Monroe Piercing
A Monroe piercing sits above the upper lip on one side, traditionally the left.
It is named after Marilyn Monroe’s famous beauty mark, although her actual beauty mark was higher on the cheek rather than directly above the lip.
A small labret stud is usually associated with this style.
I would choose a Monroe if I wanted something simple and easy to recognize without having a piercing directly through the center of my face.
Madonna Piercing
The Madonna is very similar to a Monroe.
The main distinction is the side. A Madonna is traditionally placed above the upper lip on the right side, while a Monroe is generally placed on the left.
The visual difference is small, but the names are useful when describing the exact placement I want.
Dahlia Piercing
Dahlia piercings are placed near the corners of the mouth, usually as a pair.
They create a look that emphasizes the natural width of the mouth.
I would take extra care with placement here because the corners of the mouth move constantly during talking, eating, and facial expressions.
This is one of the styles I would want an experienced piercer to assess carefully before deciding.
Smiley Piercing
A smiley piercing passes through the upper lip frenulum inside the mouth.
The jewelry is usually hidden when the mouth is closed and becomes visible when I smile.
That makes it very different from a standard lip piercing that is visible all the time.
Because this piercing sits inside the mouth, oral hygiene and jewelry contact deserve extra attention. Not everyone has suitable frenulum anatomy for this placement either.
Upper Lip Piercing Types
There are several ways to categorize lip piercings, and I find placement-based grouping useful when comparing them.
Monroe
A Monroe sits above the upper lip on one side.
It creates the appearance of a beauty mark and works well with a small stud.
Madonna
A Madonna is the opposite-side version of the Monroe.
The two are often discussed together because the basic placement is the same apart from the side.
Medusa
The Medusa sits in the center of the philtrum above the upper lip.
I would choose this if I wanted a centered upper-lip piercing.
Jestrum
The Jestrum follows a vertical path through the upper lip.
It creates two visible jewelry ends and gives a stronger look than a standard Medusa.
Angel Bites
Angel bites are two upper-lip piercings, one on each side.
They are often described as the upper-lip counterpart to snake bites.
I like this setup for anyone who wants symmetry rather than a single off-center piercing.
Smiley
The smiley is different because the piercing is through the upper lip frenulum inside the mouth.
It is mostly hidden until I smile.
Lower Lip Piercing Types
The lower lip has several popular piercing options.
Labret
A standard labret sits below the center of the lower lip.
It is one of the simplest lower-lip placements and works with several jewelry options.
Side Labret
A side labret moves the placement away from the center.
I would choose this if I wanted a lower-lip piercing with an asymmetrical look.
Vertical Labret
The vertical labret passes through the lower lip vertically.
Both ends of the curved barbell are visible, which makes the jewelry itself part of the overall look.
Ashley
The Ashley is centered directly on the lower lip.
Only the decorative end is normally visible from the front.
Lowbret
The lowbret sits lower than a standard labret.
It gives me a more unusual lower-face placement while keeping the basic labret concept.
Snake Bites
Snake bites are two lower-lip piercings placed symmetrically, one on each side.
The name comes from the visual effect of having two jewelry pieces that resemble snake fangs.
This is one of the easiest bite-style names to recognize because the arrangement is very clear.
Double and Multiple Lip Piercing Types
Once I move beyond single piercings, the names can get confusing.
The easiest way I remember them is to look at the number of piercings and where they sit.
Snake Bites
Two lower-lip piercings sit on opposite sides.
They are usually placed symmetrically.
Spider Bites
Spider bites are two close-together piercings on one side of the lower lip.
The small gap between them is what gives the arrangement its distinctive look.
If I wanted the same concept on both sides, I would be looking at a different multi-piercing arrangement rather than simply calling it spider bites.
Angel Bites
Angel bites use two upper-lip piercings, one on each side.
They create a symmetrical look similar to snake bites but on the upper lip.
Dolphin Bites
Dolphin bites are two piercings placed close together below the center of the lower lip.
They are more centralized than snake bites.
Shark Bites
Shark bites involve four lower-lip piercings.
There are two on each side, creating a larger and more dramatic arrangement.
I would plan all four positions before getting pierced because spacing becomes much more important with multiple pieces of jewelry.
Canine Bites
Canine bites combine upper- and lower-lip piercings.
The exact naming can vary, but the common arrangement uses four piercings placed around the mouth.
This creates a much fuller look than snake or angel bites.
Cyber Bites
Cyber bites combine a centered upper-lip piercing with a centered lower-lip piercing.
The two pieces create a vertical relationship between the upper and lower parts of the mouth.
This is another style where I would plan both placements together rather than treating them as unrelated piercings.
Lip Piercing Types by Placement
Another way I like to compare lip piercings is by where the jewelry sits.
Above the Upper Lip
These include:
- Monroe
- Madonna
- Medusa
- Jestrum
- Angel bites
These placements are easy to see because the jewelry sits on the skin above or around the upper lip.
Through the Upper Lip
Jestrum piercings pass through the upper lip itself.
The exact path differs from a standard Medusa, which uses a more traditional labret-style route.
Below the Lower Lip
These include:
- Labret
- Side labret
- Lowbret
- Snake bites
- Spider bites
- Dolphin bites
- Shark bites
This is one of the largest groups of lip piercing styles.
Through the Lower Lip
The vertical labret and Ashley are examples of lower-lip placements with different jewelry paths.
The vertical labret keeps both ends visible, while the Ashley presents one visible decorative end from the front.
At the Corners of the Mouth
Dahlia piercings sit close to the corners of the mouth.
Because the area moves constantly, I would pay particular attention to placement and jewelry fit.
Inside the Mouth
The smiley is a good example of a piercing that is mostly hidden inside the mouth.
This means the style has a different cleaning and oral-care routine from a simple external facial piercing.
Lip Piercings With and Without Oral Jewelry
This is one of the comparisons I find most useful because two piercings can look similar from the front but have very different jewelry paths.
Lip Piercings With Jewelry Inside the Mouth
These commonly include:
- Labret
- Side labret
- Medusa
- Monroe
- Madonna
- Ashley
With these styles, part of the jewelry sits inside the mouth.
That means I would pay attention to tooth and gum contact, jewelry movement, cleaning, and downsizing.
Lip Piercings With Jewelry Outside the Mouth
The vertical labret is a useful example.
Both ends of the jewelry remain visible externally, so it does not use the same internal disc arrangement as a traditional labret.
I would still have the jewelry checked for proper size and placement.
Lip Piercings Placed Inside the Mouth
The smiley is different again.
The piercing passes through the upper lip frenulum, and the jewelry is mainly visible when I smile.
This makes oral hygiene especially relevant.
Does Every Lip Piercing Work for Every Person?
No. This is something I would check before choosing a piercing based on appearance alone.
A photo can show me what a piercing looks like, but it cannot tell me whether the placement is suitable for my anatomy.
Lip Shape
The thickness and shape of my lips can affect where jewelry can be placed.
A placement that looks balanced on one person may need to be adjusted on another.
Philtrum Shape
For a Medusa or Jestrum, I would want the piercer to check the philtrum and upper-lip tissue.
Frenulum Anatomy
For a smiley piercing, the upper lip frenulum needs to be suitable for the piercing.
Not everyone has the same amount or shape of tissue in this area.
Teeth Position
The position of my teeth can affect how internal jewelry rests.
This is one reason I would not choose a lip piercing from a picture alone.
Gum Line
I would also consider where the jewelry will sit against the gums.
Repeated rubbing can become a problem, so placement and jewelry fit matter.
Existing Piercings
If I already had other facial or oral piercings, I would ask the piercer to look at the complete setup.
Spacing matters even more when I plan several piercings around the mouth.
Lip Piercing Placement vs Jewelry
One thing that confused me at first was the difference between a piercing name and the jewelry used for it.
A vertical labret is a piercing placement.
A curved barbell is a jewelry type.
A labret can refer to a placement, but a labret stud is also a type of jewelry.
This distinction makes it easier to compare lip piercing names.
For example, I would not say that a curved barbell is a type of lip piercing. It is jewelry that can be used with certain piercing placements.
Lip Piercing Jewelry Types
Choosing the piercing is only part of the decision. I also need to think about what jewelry will sit in it.
Flat-Back Labret Studs
A flat-back labret has a decorative front and a flat disc on the inside.
This is commonly used for several lip placements.
I like the simple appearance, but the post length still needs to match the individual anatomy and swelling stage.
Lip Rings
Rings can give a more noticeable look than a stud.
I would not assume that every healed-looking lip piercing is ready for a ring. The piercing needs to be sufficiently healed, and the ring must fit correctly.
Seamless Rings
A seamless ring has no obvious bead or decorative closure.
It gives a clean circular look.
Captive Bead Rings
A captive bead ring uses a bead to hold the ring closed.
These can create a more traditional body-piercing appearance.
Circular Barbells
Circular barbells are commonly associated with some lip and oral piercing styles.
They have a curved shape with two ends.
Curved Barbells
Curved barbells are especially useful for placements such as vertical labrets and Jestrums.
The curve lets the jewelry follow the path of the piercing.
Best Materials for Lip Piercing Jewelry
When I choose jewelry for a fresh or healed piercing, I pay attention to the material as much as the style.
Implant-Grade Titanium
Implant-grade titanium is one material I would ask about for a fresh piercing.
It is lightweight and commonly used for body jewelry.
Suitable Solid Gold
For healed piercings, suitable solid gold body jewelry can be another option.
I would make sure the piece is made for body piercing rather than assuming any gold jewelry is suitable.
Materials I Would Avoid for a Fresh Piercing
I would be cautious about mystery-metal jewelry, poorly finished pieces, and cheap jewelry with an unknown composition.
A fresh piercing is already sensitive, so I would rather use properly made jewelry with a known material.
Which Jewelry Is Best for a New Lip Piercing?
When I look at jewelry for a new lip piercing, I focus on fit before decoration.
Fresh piercings can swell, so the initial jewelry needs enough room for that stage. Once swelling settles, a piercer may recommend downsizing the post or bar.
This matters because an overly long piece can move around and catch on things. An overly short piece can press into the tissue.
For oral piercings, jewelry that repeatedly hits the teeth or gums is another concern.
I would also ask about the jewelry material and finish rather than buying the cheapest piece I could find.
Lip Piercing Pain Compared
I would be careful with any article that gives every lip piercing an exact pain score.
Pain is personal. The same placement can feel different for two people, and the procedure itself is only one part of the experience.
A better way for me to compare them is to think about the tissue involved, the location, the number of piercings, and the healing process.
Single Lip Piercings
A standard labret, Monroe, Madonna, or Medusa is a single piercing.
That makes the procedure relatively simple compared with getting several piercings in one session.
Vertical Lip Piercings
A vertical labret or Jestrum has a different piercing path.
I would expect the experience to differ from a basic labret because the jewelry travels through the lip in a different direction.
Multiple Lip Piercings
Snake bites, spider bites, shark bites, and other bite combinations involve multiple punctures.
Even if each individual piercing feels manageable, getting several in one session can make the overall experience more demanding.
What I Would Focus On
Instead of asking only how much a lip piercing hurts, I would ask:
- How complicated is the placement?
- How many piercings am I getting?
- How much swelling should I expect?
- Does jewelry sit inside my mouth?
- How long will I need to protect the area?
- Will I need a jewelry change or downsize during healing?
Those questions tell me more than a simple pain number.
Lip Piercing Healing Times
Healing time varies by placement, jewelry, anatomy, and how the piercing is cared for.
I would treat published healing ranges as general estimates rather than a deadline.
Standard Labret
A standard labret can take several weeks to heal.
I would still wait for the piercing to be properly healed before making jewelry changes that are not needed for the healing process.
Vertical Labret
A vertical labret can take several weeks or longer.
The outside may look settled before the internal tissue is fully healed.
Medusa
A Medusa also needs time to heal even though it may look simple from the outside.
I would not judge healing based only on whether the jewelry stops feeling sore.
Multiple Lip Piercings
If I get several lip piercings, each piercing still has its own healing process.
That is one reason I would think carefully before getting a large combination all at once.
Labret vs Vertical Labret
These two names are easy to mix up.
Standard Labret
A standard labret sits below the lower lip and usually has one visible decorative end with a flat disc inside the mouth.
Vertical Labret
A vertical labret passes vertically through the lower lip.
Both ends of the curved barbell remain visible from the outside.
Jewelry Difference
A standard labret commonly uses a flat-back labret stud.
A vertical labret commonly uses a curved barbell.
Oral Contact
The standard labret has jewelry inside the mouth, so tooth and gum contact can be a concern.
The vertical labret does not use the same internal jewelry setup.
Which Would I Choose?
If I wanted a traditional lower-lip stud, I would look at a labret.
If I preferred visible jewelry on both ends and wanted to avoid the typical internal labret disc, I would ask about a vertical labret.
My anatomy would still decide which one is suitable.
Medusa vs Jestrum
The Medusa and Jestrum are both centered around the upper lip, but they have different jewelry paths.
Medusa
The Medusa is a centered philtrum piercing.
From the front, I would usually see one decorative end.
Jestrum
The Jestrum follows a vertical path through the upper lip.
I would see two jewelry ends, creating a more pronounced look.
Which Would I Choose?
I would choose a Medusa if I wanted a simple centered stud.
I would consider a Jestrum if I wanted the upper lip itself to be part of the visible jewelry design.
Monroe vs Madonna
The basic placement is almost the same.
The traditional difference is the side.
Monroe: usually left side.
Madonna: usually right side.
If I wanted the look of a beauty mark above the lip but had a preference for one side of my face, this distinction would help me choose.
Snake Bites vs Spider Bites
These two names are often mixed up.
Snake Bites
Two piercings sit on opposite sides below the lower lip.
Spider Bites
Two piercings sit close together on one side of the lower lip.
So the main difference is spacing and symmetry.
If I wanted a balanced look, I would consider snake bites.
If I wanted an asymmetrical look with two close pieces, I would consider spider bites.
Snake Bites vs Shark Bites
The number of piercings makes the difference easy to remember.
Snake Bites
Two total lower-lip piercings.
Shark Bites
Four total lower-lip piercings, with two on each side.
Shark bites create a much fuller appearance and require more planning because there are four positions to balance.
Lip Piercing and Dental Health
This is one part of lip piercings I would take seriously.
Some lip piercings have jewelry that sits inside the mouth. If that jewelry repeatedly contacts the teeth or gums, it can cause problems over time.
Tooth Contact
If the inside of my jewelry keeps clicking against my teeth when I talk or eat, I would not simply accept it as normal.
I would have the jewelry and placement checked.
Gum Contact
Repeated rubbing against the gums can also become a problem.
This is another reason why proper jewelry sizing matters.
Enamel Damage
Hard jewelry repeatedly hitting the teeth can contribute to dental damage.
I would be especially careful with jewelry that moves around a lot inside the mouth.
Proper Jewelry Length
Initial jewelry often needs extra room for swelling.
Once the swelling has gone down, a professional piercer may recommend a shorter post or bar to reduce unnecessary movement.
Why Downsizing Matters
I think of downsizing as part of the normal healing process rather than an optional style change.
The goal is to get jewelry that fits the healed tissue better and reduces unnecessary movement.
The timing depends on the piercing and how it is healing, so I would let a qualified piercer decide when the jewelry should be changed.
Lip Piercing Aftercare
I would treat aftercare as part of getting the piercing rather than something I start only if a problem develops.
Cleaning the Outside
For external skin, I would follow the cleaning routine recommended by my piercer and use an appropriate sterile saline product when advised.
I would avoid aggressive products that can dry or irritate the tissue.
Oral Hygiene
For lip piercings that enter the mouth, oral hygiene becomes even more important.
I would keep my normal oral-care routine and follow the specific instructions given for the piercing.
Eating During Healing
I would be careful while eating, especially during the first days when swelling and tenderness are more noticeable.
I would avoid biting the jewelry accidentally and pay attention to foods that make the area uncomfortable.
Avoiding Unnecessary Touching
I would keep my hands away from the piercing unless I am cleaning it or handling it as instructed.
Constant touching can introduce dirt and also cause mechanical irritation.
Managing Swelling
Some swelling is expected with a new piercing.
If swelling becomes severe, keeps increasing, or comes with other concerning symptoms, I would get medical advice rather than trying random home remedies.
Downsizing
Once the initial swelling has settled, the original jewelry may be longer than necessary.
I would have a professional piercer check whether it is time for a shorter piece.
Avoiding Jewelry Changes Too Early
I would not switch to a ring just because I prefer the look.
A piercing can feel comfortable before the inside has fully healed.
Common Lip Piercing Problems
I would keep these issues in mind before choosing a lip piercing.
Lip Piercing Swelling
Swelling can happen after a new piercing.
What concerns me more is swelling that keeps getting worse instead of gradually settling.
Lip Piercing Bump
A bump can appear because of irritation, pressure, friction, jewelry fit, or other causes.
I would first look at whether the jewelry is being disturbed or rubbing against the area.
Bleeding
A small amount of bleeding can occur around a new piercing.
Heavy or persistent bleeding would be a reason to seek professional help.
Discharge
Some clear fluid or crust can occur during normal healing.
Thick or unusual drainage, especially when combined with worsening pain, warmth, redness, or swelling, would concern me more.
Irritation
Repeated touching, friction, jewelry movement, or unsuitable jewelry can irritate a healing piercing.
If irritation continues, I would look for the source rather than simply cleaning the area more aggressively.
Infection
Possible signs of infection can include increasing pain, warmth, swelling, spreading redness, or pus-like drainage.
If I thought a piercing was infected, I would seek medical care rather than trying to treat a serious infection on my own.
Jewelry Embedding
If swelling causes jewelry to press deeply into the tissue, I would not wait and see how it goes.
A piercer or healthcare professional can assess whether the jewelry needs attention.
Migration and Rejection
Some piercings can move from their original position or be pushed closer to the surface.
If I noticed the jewelry becoming more shallow or the tissue over the jewelry becoming thinner, I would have it checked.
How I Would Choose a Lip Piercing
I would not choose a lip piercing based only on a picture.
The look matters, but I would also consider my anatomy, lifestyle, dental health, jewelry preferences, and how much healing work I am willing to do.
I Would Start With the Look I Want
If I wanted something subtle, I might look at a Monroe, Madonna, or small labret.
If I wanted symmetry, I might consider snake bites or angel bites.
If I wanted a centered style, I might compare a Medusa, labret, Ashley, or vertical labret.
I Would Check My Anatomy
Not every lip piercing works equally well on every person.
The shape and thickness of my lips, the position of my teeth, the frenulum, and the available tissue can all affect the placement.
I would let the piercer assess this before committing to a style.
I Would Think About My Teeth and Gums
This would be a major part of my decision.
If a style places jewelry against my teeth or gums, I would ask how the jewelry will sit after swelling goes down and whether downsizing can reduce contact.
I Would Consider My Lifestyle
I would think about:
- Work
- School
- Sports
- Eating habits
- Playing wind instruments
- Makeup
- Skincare
- Sleeping
- Facial hair
- Masks
- Frequent touching of the face
A piercing that fits my daily routine will usually be easier to live with.
I Would Think About Visibility
A Monroe or Madonna is easy to see.
A smiley can be much less visible when my mouth is closed.
A vertical labret is also very noticeable because both ends of the jewelry can be seen.
I Would Consider How Many Piercings I Actually Want
If I already know I want snake bites or shark bites, I would discuss the whole arrangement before getting the first piercing.
Spacing is easier to plan before the positions have been established.
Lip Piercing Decision Guide
When I am choosing between different lip piercing styles, I find it easier to start with the look and then narrow down the options.
If I Want One Simple Piercing
I would compare:
- Labret
- Side labret
- Monroe
- Madonna
- Medusa
- Vertical labret
If I Want a Centered Look
I would compare:
- Medusa
- Ashley
- Labret
- Vertical labret
If I Want Symmetry
I would look at:
- Snake bites
- Angel bites
- Dahlia piercings
If I Want Two Piercings Close Together
I would compare:
- Spider bites
- Dolphin bites
The key difference is where those two piercings sit.
If I Want Four Piercings
I would look at:
- Shark bites
- Canine bites
These need more planning because several placements have to work together.
If I Want a More Hidden Style
I would look at a smiley because it can be less visible when my mouth is closed.
If I Want Jewelry Outside the Mouth
I would ask about a vertical labret.
The jewelry follows an external vertical path rather than using the typical internal disc of a traditional labret.
Best Lip Piercing Types for Beginners
I would not say there is one universal best lip piercing for everyone.
However, if I were starting from scratch, I would first compare simpler placements such as:
- Labret
- Side labret
- Monroe
- Madonna
- Medusa
- Vertical labret
The final choice would depend on anatomy and whether I am comfortable with jewelry that enters the mouth.
For someone concerned about dental contact, I would specifically ask a piercer about placements where the jewelry does not rest against the teeth or gums in the same way as a traditional labret.
Lip Piercing Combinations and Ideas
Snake Bites
Two lower-lip piercings create a symmetrical look.
I would keep the jewelry matching if I wanted a clean appearance.
Angel Bites
Two upper-lip piercings create symmetry above the mouth.
Small matching studs can make the setup subtle.
Cyber Bites
A centered upper and lower combination creates a strong vertical arrangement.
I would plan both placements together.
Dolphin Bites
Two lower-lip piercings sit close together under the center of the mouth.
This gives a different look from the wider spacing of snake bites.
Spider Bites
Two close piercings on one side create an asymmetrical look.
I would consider this if I wanted something more compact than snake bites.
Shark Bites
Four lower-lip piercings create a much fuller look.
Because there are four positions, I would think carefully about spacing, jewelry size, and healing before choosing this setup.
Canine Bites
Canine bites combine upper and lower lip piercings.
This creates a bold arrangement that uses several points around the mouth.
How Much Does a Lip Piercing Cost?
The cost can vary widely depending on the studio, city, piercer, jewelry, and exact piercing type.
A simple labret may cost less than a four-piercing setup such as shark bites or canine bites.
Jewelry quality can also change the final price.
If I were comparing studios, I would look at the full price, including the piercing service and initial jewelry, instead of choosing based only on the lowest advertised fee.
For unusual placements, I would also put more weight on the piercer’s experience than on getting the cheapest possible price.
How to Choose a Lip Piercer
Check Their Portfolio
I would look at examples of the exact piercing I want.
A piercer may be excellent at standard labrets but have limited experience with a Jestrum, Dahlia, or other less common placement.
Ask About Anatomy
I would expect the piercer to inspect my lips and mouth before deciding on placement.
If a particular style does not suit my anatomy, I would rather hear that before getting pierced.
Ask About Jewelry
I would ask:
- What material is the jewelry?
- What size will you use?
- Why is that size appropriate?
- Will it need to be downsized?
- What jewelry can I wear after healing?
Ask About Downsizing
I would ask when the initial jewelry should be checked.
This is especially important for lip piercings where a long post can move around inside the mouth.
Ask About Aftercare
I would leave the appointment knowing how to care for the external and internal parts of the piercing.
Check Their Hygiene Practices
I would look for a clean studio and appropriate sterile practices.
For me, this is more important than a fancy studio interior or a large social media following.
Final Thoughts
After looking at the different lip piercing types, I think the biggest mistake would be choosing one based only on its name or how it looks in a photo.
A labret, vertical labret, Medusa, Monroe, Madonna, Jestrum, snake bites, spider bites, angel bites, and shark bites all create different looks and have different placement and jewelry requirements.
If I were choosing one for myself, I would start with the style I like. Then I would look at my anatomy, daily routine, dental concerns, jewelry preferences, visibility, and how much healing time I am willing to give it.
I would also remember that some lip piercings place jewelry inside the mouth. That makes fit, downsizing, oral hygiene, and tooth and gum contact especially important.
For a first lip piercing, I would focus on a placement that suits my anatomy and lifestyle rather than simply choosing the most popular style. If I wanted a more advanced combination, I would plan the complete arrangement with an experienced piercer before getting the first piercing.
For me, the best lip piercing is the one that gives me the look I want while also fitting comfortably with my anatomy, jewelry preferences, and everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lip Piercing Types
What are the different types of lip piercings?
Common types include labret, side labret, vertical labret, lowbret, Ashley, Medusa, Jestrum, Monroe, Madonna, Dahlia, smiley, snake bites, spider bites, angel bites, dolphin bites, shark bites, canine bites, and cyber bites.
The exact list can vary between piercing communities because some names describe combinations rather than one single placement.
What is the most common lip piercing?
The standard labret is one of the most recognizable lip piercing styles.
It is centered below the lower lip and works with several jewelry options.
Which lip piercing hurts the least?
There is no reliable pain ranking that applies to everyone.
Pain depends on anatomy, sensitivity, placement, technique, and the number of piercings being done.
I would use pain as only one part of the decision.
Which lip piercing heals fastest?
Healing varies by person and placement.
Some common lip piercings may settle within several weeks, but I would not treat the shortest published estimate as a guarantee.
A piercing can feel fine before the inside has fully healed.
What is the difference between a labret and a vertical labret?
A standard labret passes through the area below the lower lip, with jewelry extending inside the mouth.
A vertical labret follows a vertical path through the lower lip, with both jewelry ends visible externally.
The jewelry is also different. A standard labret commonly uses a flat-back stud, while a vertical labret commonly uses a curved barbell.
What is the difference between Monroe and Madonna piercings?
Both sit above the upper lip on one side.
The traditional distinction is that a Monroe is on the left and a Madonna is on the right.
What is a Medusa piercing?
A Medusa is a centered piercing in the philtrum area above the upper lip.
It usually uses a labret-style stud.
What is a philtrum piercing?
A philtrum piercing is another name commonly used for a Medusa piercing.
It is placed in the center of the philtrum, directly above the upper lip.
What is a Jestrum piercing?
A Jestrum is a vertical upper-lip piercing.
It creates two visible jewelry ends, one above and one on the upper lip.
What are snake bite piercings?
Snake bites are two lower-lip piercings placed on opposite sides of the mouth.
They create a symmetrical appearance.
What are spider bite piercings?
Spider bites are two close-together piercings on one side of the lower lip.
They are more compact and asymmetrical than snake bites.
What are angel bite piercings?
Angel bites are two upper-lip piercings, one on each side.
They are often viewed as the upper-lip counterpart to snake bites.
What are dolphin bite piercings?
Dolphin bites are two close-together piercings below the center of the lower lip.
They have a more centered arrangement than snake bites.
What are shark bite piercings?
Shark bites use four lower-lip piercings, with two on each side.
They create a fuller multi-piercing arrangement.
What are cyber bite piercings?
Cyber bites usually combine a centered upper-lip piercing with a centered lower-lip piercing.
The two placements create a vertical relationship between the upper and lower parts of the mouth.
What are canine bite piercings?
Canine bites are a four-piercing combination involving the upper and lower lip areas.
The exact arrangement can vary slightly between naming systems.
Which lip piercing is easiest to hide?
A smiley can be less visible because the jewelry is inside the upper lip frenulum and mainly shows when smiling.
Other styles, such as Monroe, Madonna, and labret piercings, are visible from the outside.
Which lip piercing is easiest to maintain?
There is no single answer for everyone.
A simpler single piercing generally gives me fewer healing sites to care for than a four-piercing setup.
I would also consider whether the jewelry sits inside my mouth because that adds oral-care considerations.
Which lip piercing is best for beginners?
I would start by comparing a standard labret, side labret, Monroe, Madonna, Medusa, or vertical labret.
The best choice still depends on anatomy, jewelry fit, lifestyle, and whether I am comfortable with oral jewelry.
Do lip piercings damage teeth?
Some lip piercings can contribute to dental problems if jewelry repeatedly hits or rubs against the teeth.
That is why I would pay close attention to jewelry fit and have the jewelry checked if it keeps contacting my teeth.
Do lip piercings damage gums?
They can cause gum irritation or damage when jewelry repeatedly rubs against the gums.
I would pay attention to where the internal part of the jewelry rests and discuss any persistent rubbing with a piercer or dentist.
Which lip piercings have jewelry inside the mouth?
Traditional labret-style placements such as the labret, side labret, Medusa, Monroe, Madonna, and Ashley commonly have part of the jewelry inside the mouth.
A vertical labret follows a different path, while a smiley is located through the upper lip frenulum.
Can I get multiple lip piercings at once?
It depends on the number of piercings, your anatomy, and the piercer’s assessment.
If I wanted a multi-piercing setup, I would plan the full arrangement before starting so the spacing and placement work together.
Can I wear a hoop in a new lip piercing?
I would not switch to a hoop simply because I prefer the look.
Fresh piercings can swell, and initial jewelry needs to accommodate that stage. I would wait until the piercing is sufficiently healed and have a professional confirm that the hoop is appropriate.
How long does a lip piercing take to heal?
There is no single healing period for every lip piercing.
Many common lip piercings are described as taking several weeks, while some can take longer. The visible appearance of the piercing is not enough to confirm complete healing.
How much does a lip piercing cost?
Prices depend on the piercing type, studio, location, piercer, and jewelry.
A single labret will generally be a different cost from four-piercing combinations such as shark or canine bites.
I would compare the complete service and jewelry cost rather than looking only at the piercing fee.
