The Truth About Snake Bite Piercings

Many people who like piercings and tattoos are always looking for ways to change up their look and experiment with new piercings and the like. From earrings to facial piercings, there are tons of ways to switch things up and keeping your look fresh and special. The fun part about piercings are that they're not permanent and can always be changed, switched up, or even taken out if you grow sick and tired of them. 

Snake bites are a popular piercing that people are interested in because they're not only awesome, but they're also different and unique. Snake bites are two lip piercings done on either side of your bottom lip. The reason behind the name is because it looks like if a snake sunk its teeth into your lip, or as if you have two fangs like a snake. However, there's a ton to know about snake bites before going over to a piercing studio to get them done. 

Snake bite piercings are two bottom lip rings placed on either side of the bottom lip. There are two different types you can get: rings (like hoops), or studs. It's important to know which type of snake bite piercings you're interested in because the way in which you are pierced differs depending on which style you choose (via Byrdie). If you pick one and decide you want to change to the other, you risk infection and irritation. 

Obviously, because there are two piercings, you have to go through the process twice — so it can be slightly painful. It takes anywhere from four to six weeks for your piercings to heal fully, and because it's on your lips near your mouth, you want to be very careful with eating and anything having to do with your mouth. Experts say to be careful with harsh toothpastes and mouthwashes during the healing process to avoid irritation, per Heathline. Additionally, you should use saline salution and salt water rinses twice a day while you are healing to clean the piercing out and keep it sterile. 

Snake bite piercings are done with thicker jewelry to leave room for the swelling that happens, but after eight weeks it's recommended to switch to thinner jewelry. Also, be sure to stick to surgical steel or gold to avoid any allergic reactions and irritation, recommends Byrdie.