Collection: .Vertical Labret Piercing

All our jewellery is manufactured from High Polish Implant Grade Titanium (Ti-6AL-4V-ELI ASTM F136).

Age Restrictions – Obsidian Body Piercing

💄✨ Things to Consider Before Getting a Vertical Lip Piercing

Bold. Edgy. Beautiful. But is it right for you?

The vertical lip piercing (often called a vertical labret) is a striking and stylish choice that runs vertically through the lower lip — usually centered, with both entry and exit points visible. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a bold statement that’s just a little different from the usual labret or Monroe.

But as with any piercing, it’s not just about the aesthetics — there’s a lot to consider before getting a vertical lip piercing. Here’s what to know before you commit to this beautifully badass look.

👄 1. What Is a Vertical Lip Piercing?

Unlike a standard labret (which exits inside the mouth), the vertical labret piercing goes straight through the lower lip — from bottom to top — with both ends of the jewellery visible externally:

• One ball or gem sits on the lower lip, near the chin

• The other sits just above the lip, often touching or sitting in the lip line

No jewellery sits inside the mouth, which means less risk to teeth and gums — but it does come with its own considerations.

🧬 2. Anatomy Matters

Not every lip shape suits a vertical labret. A professional piercer will assess:

• The fullness and curve of your bottom lip

• The way your lip moves when talking or eating

• Any existing piercings that may affect placement

💡 If your lip is too thin or tight, this style may not sit correctly — or may lead to discomfort or migration over time.

🩹 3. Healing Is External (but Still Sensitive)

Because it doesn’t go inside the mouth, healing tends to be a bit more straightforward than some other lip piercings — but it’s still soft tissue, and your lips move a lot.

Healing time is usually 6–10 weeks, with swelling and tenderness most noticeable in the first 5–10 days.

Expect:

• Some lip stiffness or tightness

• Swelling for the first few days

• A need to eat slowly and speak gently at first

❄️ 4. Swelling Can Be Significant

You’ll likely be pierced with a longer curved barbell to accommodate initial swelling. Things that help:

• Cold compresses or sucking on ice (gently!)

• Sleeping with your head slightly elevated

• Avoiding hot, spicy, or acidic foods

• Sticking to soft, cool meals for a few days

Once the swelling goes down, your piercer may recommend downsizing the jewellery for comfort and aesthetics.

💄 5. It Might Affect How You Wear Lip Products

Because one end of the jewellery sits right on or near the lip line, lipsticks, glosses, and balms can:

• Smear onto the jewellery

• Collect around the ball

• Potentially irritate the piercing during healing

You’ll need to keep cosmetics away from the area during healing — and even afterward, be mindful about product buildup.

🦷 6. It’s Kinder to Your Teeth (Compared to Internal Lip Piercings)

Since the jewellery doesn’t touch your gums or teeth, the vertical labret:

• Doesn’t cause gum recession like some traditional labrets

• Won’t rub against enamel

• May be more comfortable long-term for people worried about dental issues

But! That doesn’t mean it's risk-free — biting the jewellery or playing with it can still cause trauma or chipping.

✨ 7. Jewellery Matters — Especially the Shape

You’ll be pierced with a curved barbell, usually made from:

• Implant-grade titanium (best for healing)

• 14k/18k gold (once healed, if you prefer a luxe look)

• Avoid cheap or externally threaded jewellery — it can irritate the tissue

Curved barbells help follow the natural shape of your lip and reduce pressure, but they still need to be the correct length for your anatomy and swelling level.

🧼 8. Aftercare: Be Gentle, Consistent, and Clean

Daily care should include:

• Twice-daily cleaning with sterile saline solution

• No touching or twisting the jewellery

• Keeping food, drinks, and fingers away from the piercing

• Avoiding makeup or skincare products near the area during healing

Because it’s external, rinsing with mouthwash isn't required — but good oral hygiene still helps reduce overall bacteria around the area.

🛌 9. Sleeping Might Be a Bit Awkward at First

If you sleep face-down or press your face into pillows, you may need to adjust:

• Use a soft pillow or sleep on your back

• Avoid putting pressure on your lip

• Be extra careful not to catch it on blankets, jumpers, or sleeves while you sleep

🖤 Final Thoughts

The vertical lip piercing is a bold, high-impact piercing that’s becoming a modern classic. With the right anatomy, high-quality jewellery, and a bit of patience, it heals beautifully and makes a striking addition to any look.

But it’s not completely low-maintenance — and if you're not up for a few weeks of careful eating, gentle cleaning, and resisting the urge to fidget with it, it may not be the one for you (yet!).

Ready to go vertical?
Book a consultation to make sure your anatomy suits the style, talk jewellery options, and ask any questions before you get pierced. We’re here to help you make the best, most confident choice for your face and lifestyle.