If you're considering a new lip piercing, a classic labret or a vertical labret piercing are popular choices. While both highlight the lower lip, they differ in placement, jewelry, anatomy, and healing. If you're considering either, let's go over the basics of the two, how they compare, and ultimately, what the best choice is for you.

In the guide, we'll go over:

-The difference between a labret and vertical labret piercing

-Pain and healing times

-Jewelry options

-How to choose the best piercing for your anatomy and lifestyle

What is a Labret Piercing?

A labret piercing is a classic and traditional lip piercing placed just below the bottom lip. Typically centrally located (though can be placed on either side of the bottom lip), the piercing can rest anywhere from directly below the bottom lip to above the chin. The jewelry enters through the outside of the lip and passes straight through to the inside on the mouth. 

Piercing Details:

Jewelry: Flat back labret stud, horseshoe barbell, or hinged segment ring.

Visibility: The top bead or ball of the labret is visible beneath the lip, while the flat back of the post is hidden inside the mouth.

What is a Vertical Labret Piercing?

A vertical labret piercing sits on the lower lip (typically in the center, but can also be on either side of the lip). Unlike a labret piercing that exits through the inside of the mouth, vertical labrets are pierced vertically through the lip tissue. 

Piercing Details:

Jewelry: Curved barbell.

Visibility: Both ends of the jewelry are visible.

Pain, Anatomy, Healing, and Challenges: What to Expect

Labret Piercing

- Pain level: The lip is a sensitive area so expect this piercing to be spicy (but quick).

- Swelling: This area is prone to swelling and will be fit with a longer bar to accommodate the piercing during the healing process. Remember to downsize!

- Anatomy Dependent: Proper anatomy for this piercing is common. 

- Healing Time: While the piercing may feel healed sooner, labret piercings typically take at least four months to fully heal.

- Challenges: The jewelry rests inside the mouth and can irritate gums and teeth if not fitted correctly. Long term, this can lead to gum, enamel, and tooth damage. This can be minimized with the help of an experienced piercer and well fitted jewelry.

Vertical Labret Piercing

-Pain level: The lip is a sensitive area so expect this piercing to be spicy (but quick).

-Swelling: This area is prone to swelling and will be fit with a longer bar to accommodate the piercing during the healing process. Remember to downsize!

- Anatomy Dependent: This piercing requires enough tissue to pierce in order to be stable.

- Healing Time: While the piercing may feel healed sooner, vertical labret piercings typically take at least four months to fully heal.

- Challenges: Because the jewelry rests on the lip, food and drinks will inevitably get on the jewelry and piercing. To maintain the health of your piercing, gently cleaning the piercing after eating or drinking may be required! There is also an increased risk of migration in vertical labrets as it is more vulnerable to snags and tears. 

Which Piercing to Choose?

Both the labret and vertical labret piercing offer a unique addition to a curation or can elevate your look as a standalone piercing. But how do you choose which piercing is best for you?

If oral health is a concern of yours, a vertical labret may be the best choice since the piercing has minimal contact with the teeth. While oral damage isn't inevitable with labret piercings, there is a higher risk. However, with this piercing, there aren't as many jewelry options and the piercing is limited to curved barbells. 

A standard labret piercing offers a wider range of jewelry, especially if wearing a hoop is your goal. An experienced piercer should check your anatomy before piercing to ensure the placement limits the piercing's exposure to the teeth and gums. 

Ultimately, choosing the right piercing comes down to your anatomy, style preferences, and lifestyle. No matter which piercing you choose, going to an experienced and trusted piercer is essential. 

Ready to explore jewelry for your new piercing? Check out our collection of labret studs, curved barbells, and implant-grade titanium lip jewelry.