Snake Bite Piercing FAQ
Snake bite piercings are a style of lip piercing—usually done as a matched pair—that create the look of two small “bite marks” on your lip.
People choose snake bite piercings for self-expression, to enhance their aesthetic, and as a statement of individuality. They can also be seen as edgy or rebellious and sometimes are chosen for the unique style they offer.
Since snake bites are performed in pairs, one piercing is placed on one side of the lip and the “other end” is the corresponding piercing on the opposite side—together they mimic a bite.
A professional piercer creates two separate punctures (typically in the lip) and inserts small, carefully chosen jewelry (usually rings or surface bars). As the tissue heals around the jewelry, the pair creates the distinctive “snake bite” look.
This term refers either to one of the paired lip piercings that, when taken together, form the snake bite style, or it may be used interchangeably to refer to the entire set.
Yes. As with most lip piercings, you will feel a sharp pinch during the procedure followed by some discomfort during the healing process.
The initial pain is similar to other lip piercings—a brief, intense pinch—with some lingering tenderness afterward.
Pain is subjective; many describe it as a quick, sharp pinch with moderate soreness that diminishes after the first few days.
Most recipients find the pain comparable to other lip piercings. While the initial insertion is uncomfortable, the pain usually subsides quickly with proper care.
Initial healing is generally around 6 to 8 weeks, though full healing may take several months.
You can expect the initial phase to be 6–8 weeks, with complete healing potentially taking 3–6 months, depending on your body and aftercare routine.
As above, initial healing is typically 6 to 8 weeks with full tissue integration over a few months.
Healing times are similar for both piercings—about 6–8 weeks initially, with longer complete healing.
Expect a similar timeline: roughly 6–8 weeks for the early healing stage.
The healing process starts with an inflammatory phase (redness, swelling, slight bleeding) and moves into tissue integration as the area gradually stabilizes around the jewelry. Good aftercare is essential throughout.
The stages include: – Inflammatory Phase: Immediate redness and swelling. – Proliferative Phase: Gradual tissue integration and reduction in swelling. – Maturation Phase: The piercing becomes fully integrated, which may take several months.
Yes. Mild swelling is common for the first few days after the procedure and should gradually subside.
With proper aftercare and if no complications occur, scarring is minimal. However, if healing is disrupted (through infection or excessive trauma), visible scars may develop.
The cost of a “insert piercing here” piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g., implant-grade titanium), and piercer expertise.
The cost of a “insert piercing here” piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g., implant-grade titanium), and piercer expertise.
The cost of a “insert piercing here” piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g., implant-grade titanium), and piercer expertise.
The cost of a “insert piercing here” piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g., implant-grade titanium), and piercer expertise.
The cost of a “insert piercing here” piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g., implant-grade titanium), and piercer expertise.
The cost of a “insert piercing here” piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g., implant-grade titanium), and piercer expertise.
The cost of a “insert piercing here” piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g., implant-grade titanium), and piercer expertise.
The cost of a “insert piercing here” piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g., implant-grade titanium), and piercer expertise.
The cost of a “insert piercing here” piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g., implant-grade titanium), and piercer expertise.
The size of the jewelry (gauge and diameter) is selected based on your lip anatomy. Typically, a small gauge—often between 16g and 18g—is used with low-profile jewelry.
Options include small captive bead rings, micro hoops, or low-profile surface bars that are designed for the lip. The choice depends on your desired look and comfort.
The “best” size is one that fits your lip without excessive protrusion. Your piercer will determine the ideal gauge and size based on your anatomy.
Hoops are generally less common for snake bite piercings because low-profile rings or studs are better suited to the lip’s contours.
Yes, some choose small studs for a more subtle appearance if they suit the anatomy and desired style.
While the classic snake bite consists of two symmetric lip piercings, variations can include different placements (upper or lower lip), jewelry styles (rings versus studs), and even slight modifications in size and spacing to achieve a unique look.
Risks include infection, rejection, and, if the jewelry is too bulky or misaligned, potential damage to adjacent teeth or gum tissue.
When performed by a skilled professional using sterile techniques, they are generally safe; however, like any piercing, complications can occur if proper aftercare is not followed.
The lip is an area with abundant bacteria, so poor hygiene or aftercare can lead to infection. Following aftercare instructions minimizes this risk.
If the jewelry is low-profile and properly fitted, it should not contact or damage your teeth. However, if the piece is too large or misaligned, it could potentially rub against your teeth and cause wear over time.
With appropriate jewelry and careful maintenance, they have minimal impact. Poorly fitted jewelry or inadequate cleaning can lead to irritation of the gums or dental issues.
Gently clean the area with a sterile saline solution 1–2 times per day using a clean cotton swab or gauze. Avoid harsh chemicals that could irritate the tissue.
Follow the same regimen as other lip piercings—regular saline soaks and gentle cleaning, taking care not to disrupt the healing process.
A routine that includes cleaning with saline solution, avoiding irritants (such as spicy foods or heavy lip products), and minimizing trauma to the area is recommended. Consistency is key to preventing infection.
It’s best to have a professional remove the jewelry. Self-removal can cause tissue damage, bleeding, or infection.
Look for reputable piercing studios or experienced body modification artists who specialize in lip piercings.
Consult local listings, online reviews, or ask for recommendations from friends or body modification communities.
Yes, but extra care is needed. Ensure that the jewelry is low-profile so it doesn’t interfere with your braces or cause additional irritation.
If you prefer a more discreet look, you might choose subtle jewelry or remove the jewelry temporarily once the piercings are fully healed. Makeup can sometimes help camouflage the piercings if necessary.
Similar to the above—select low-profile or flesh-toned jewelry and, if desired, use makeup or lip treatments to reduce visibility.
The approach is the same: opt for discreet jewelry and consider temporary removal after full healing if you need to conceal the piercings for professional or personal reasons.
Although “snake bite” typically refers to paired lip piercings, sometimes the term is loosely used to describe similar paired surface piercings on the ear. Confirm with your piercer if you see this term used.
Snake bite piercings are not gender-specific and can be performed on anyone’s lip. Men who choose this style typically do so for the same aesthetic and self-expression reasons as women.
Clementine Piercing offers “insert piercing here” Piercings in NYC. Johnny Pearce, one of the worlds top rated and most trusted piercing professionals, holds tenure at Clementine Piercing in NYC—making it an excellent option for trusted piercing services.
- Experienced piercers familiar with genital piercings
- Strict hygiene and sterilization protocols
- Positive client reviews and portfolio examples