Eyebrow Piercing FAQ
Before getting an eyebrow piercing, research reputable studios and experienced piercers, understand the healing process and potential complications, and be aware that proper aftercare is essential. Consider your lifestyle (e.g., makeup use, sports) and how the piercing might affect your daily routine.
An anti-eyebrow piercing is a type of surface piercing placed along or just below the eyebrow (often horizontally) rather than through the brow itself. Unlike a traditional eyebrow piercing (which typically goes vertically through the eyebrow), anti-eyebrow piercings are more prone to rejection because they lie flat against the skin.
Common variations include:
- Vertical Eyebrow Piercing: Piercing that goes up-and-down through the eyebrow.
- Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing: Piercing that runs along the length of the eyebrow.
- Double or Paired Eyebrow Piercings: Two piercings on one or both eyebrows for a coordinated look.
- Anti-eyebrow Piercings: Surface piercings placed near the eyebrow.
A vertical eyebrow piercing is performed by passing a needle vertically through the eyebrow tissue (usually at the outer or inner end), resulting in a piercing that runs perpendicular to the line of the eyebrow.
This piercing is done along the natural curve of the eyebrow so that the jewelry passes horizontally through the skin.
Double eyebrow piercings involve having two piercings in one eyebrow (or one on each eyebrow) to create a bold, symmetrical look. They require careful planning for proper spacing and healing, as the proximity of multiple piercings can complicate aftercare.
An experienced piercer cleans and marks the area, then uses a sterile needle to create the puncture (or dermal punch for some variations) before inserting the chosen jewelry. The procedure is quick, though precision is important given the delicate nature of the area.
Eyebrow piercings are typically placed along the natural curve of the eyebrow. The exact placement varies based on personal style and anatomy, often at the inner, middle, or outer portion of the eyebrow.
The procedure is similar for both genders. However, some men may choose a more subtle or strategically placed piercing to complement their facial features, while style preferences can vary.
There isn’t a single “technical” term; it’s generally referred to as an eyebrow piercing. When more specificity is needed, terms like “vertical eyebrow piercing” or “horizontal eyebrow piercing” are used.
Most eyebrow piercings are performed using a 16- or 18-gauge needle. Your piercer will choose the gauge that best suits your anatomy and the desired jewelry.
Pain is subjective, but most people experience a brief, sharp pinch during insertion followed by mild to moderate soreness for a few days.
Initial healing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks, though complete healing may take up to 3–6 months, depending on individual factors and aftercare.
Expect initial healing (reduction in swelling and discomfort) within 6–8 weeks, with full tissue integration and maturation occurring over several months.
During healing, you may experience mild swelling, tenderness, and occasional crusting. Avoid touching the piercing and follow aftercare instructions carefully to minimize irritation.
Factors include your overall health, aftercare routine, placement of the piercing, and whether you experience any trauma or infection during healing.
With proper healing and care, visible scarring is uncommon. However, if the piercing is removed prematurely or becomes infected, a small scar may form.
Keloid formation is possible with any piercing if you are predisposed, though it’s less common on the eyebrow. If you have a history of keloids, discuss this with your piercer.
Clean the area 1–2 times daily with a sterile saline solution, avoid touching the piercing with unwashed hands, and follow your piercer’s specific aftercare recommendations.
Gently rinse with a saline solution or a dedicated piercing aftercare product, using clean hands or a cotton swab to prevent irritation and reduce the risk of infection.
- Clean daily with saline solution
- Avoid makeup, lotions, or creams near the piercing during healing
- Don’t pick or twist the jewelry
- Avoid excessive sun exposure and swimming until healed
If you notice signs of infection (excessive redness, swelling, pain, or discharge), consult your piercer or a healthcare provider immediately for proper treatment.
Minor bumps can often be managed with gentle saline soaks. If the bump persists or worsens, professional evaluation is recommended as it may indicate hypertrophic scarring or infection.
Options include curved barbells, captive bead rings, or custom pieces designed for the eyebrow. The style should be low-profile to reduce irritation.
Low-profile, lightweight jewelry made from implant-grade materials (like titanium, niobium, or surgical steel) is ideal to minimize discomfort and promote healing.
Yes, many choose a curved captive bead ring or a small hoop specifically designed for the eyebrow.
Barbells can be used, but many piercers prefer curved barbells or rings for the natural curve of the eyebrow.
Yes, retainers are available for those who need a discreet option—especially if you’re in a workplace that discourages visible piercings.
Yes, high-quality gold (preferably 14k or higher) is generally biocompatible and safe, but many professionals recommend titanium or surgical steel to minimize allergic reactions.
Rejection can occur if the body perceives the jewelry as a foreign object. Factors include poor placement, trauma, or using low-quality jewelry. Following proper aftercare can help reduce this risk.
Signs include the jewelry appearing closer to the surface, increasing pain, redness, or a visible outline around the piercing. Scarring may also develop.
Monitor for persistent pain, movement of the jewelry toward the skin surface, and any changes in the surrounding tissue. If in doubt, consult your piercer.
Rejection is less common with well-placed eyebrow piercings compared to surface piercings, but it can still occur if aftercare is not properly maintained.
If properly healed and cared for, scarring is minimal. However, if complications occur, some scarring may remain.
Bumps can form due to irritation, poor aftercare, or excessive manipulation of the jewelry. They may also develop as a result of minor infections or as a normal part of the healing process (hypertrophic scarring).
Look for increasing redness, swelling, pain, discharge, or a foul odor. If these symptoms persist beyond the initial healing phase, seek professional advice.
Prices typically range from $30 to $80, depending on the studio, location, and the type of jewelry used.
Factors include the studio’s reputation, geographic location, the complexity of the piercing, and the quality of jewelry chosen.
There may be slight variations—surface piercings (like anti-eyebrow) can sometimes cost a bit more due to higher rejection risk and specialized technique compared to traditional eyebrow piercings.
Look for reputable piercing studios or body modification shops with positive reviews and portfolios of their work. Online directories and recommendations from friends or online communities can help locate a trusted professional.
Wait until the piercing is fully healed—typically at least 6–8 weeks, though some piercers may recommend waiting 3–6 months for optimal stability.
It’s best to have a professional remove the jewelry, but if you must remove it yourself, wash your hands thoroughly and gently twist the jewelry without forcing it.
With healed piercings and proper technique, removal is generally straightforward; however, caution is necessary to avoid trauma or infection.
Nerve damage is rare with eyebrow piercings when done correctly by an experienced professional. However, improper placement or excessive manipulation could potentially cause temporary numbness.
Consider your pain tolerance, lifestyle, the potential for scarring, aftercare commitment, and how the piercing might affect your appearance or professional environment.
Risks include infection, rejection, migration, allergic reactions to jewelry, scarring, and, rarely, nerve damage. Following proper technique and aftercare minimizes these risks.
Yes, you can choose discreet jewelry such as clear or flesh-colored retainers, or use makeup to camouflage the area if needed for professional or personal reasons.