The Ultimate Guide For Eyebrow Piercing

If you are wondering that eyebrow piercing is a new-age trend, then you are completely mistaken. Let’s go back a few hundred years. This tradition dates back to the prehistoric societies. The 16th century contains one of the earliest accounts of eyebrow piercing. For the Native American Plains Indians, it served as a rite of passage.

According to ancient records, piercings were recognized as strength and wisdom in the Native American community. Whereas in the modern era, eyebrow piercing gained significant popularity during the punk and alternative subculture movements of the late 20th century. It served as a metaphor for disobedience and rebellion.

Eyebrow Piercing – Everything You Need to Know

In the recent years, it has evolved into mainstream fashion statement which is embraced by people from various social backgrounds. Many celebrities are seen flaunting eyebrow piercings which boosted this trend’s popularity. Some notable celebrities known for their eyebrow piercings include: Cara Delevingne, Zayn Malik, Lenny Kravitz etc.

Not only that but eyebrow piercings have also made appearances in various films that added character depth and style to on-screen personas. One notable example is Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series. His eyebrow piercing was a defining element of the character’s quirky and rebellious nature.

Does Eyebrow Piercing Leave A Scar?

An eyebrow piercing is a type of body modification in which the eyebrow is punctured with a tiny hole using a small gauge needle or a piercing gun. The hole is then filled with jewelry, typically a barbell or curved bar. A variety of styles and expressions are possible due to the variable placement and angle of the piercing. Eyebrow piercings carry the same risk of scarring as any other piercing.

The healing process, aftercare, and type of jewelry worn by the individual can all affect the scar’s size and visibility. While scarring is a possibility, proper aftercare can minimize its visibility, allowing individuals to enjoy their eyebrow piercings to the fullest.

How Bad Does An Eyebrow Piercing Hurt?

The pain experienced during an eyebrow piercing can vary from person to person based on their individual pain tolerance, anxiety levels, and the specific placement of the piercing. However, eyebrow piercings are considered to be relatively low on the pain scale compared to some other body piercings like gum piercing and tongue piercings.

Eyebrow piercings typically involve piercing through a thin section of skin and are relatively quick to perform. Most people describe the sensation as a sharp pinch or pressure, which lasts only for a few seconds. The pain is usually tolerable and short-lived.

The good news is the pain associated with a piercing is temporary and subsides quickly after the procedure. Proper aftercare and keeping the area clean reduces the discomfort and minimize the risk of complications.

Top 10 Most Popular Eyebrow Piercing

This curated list of the top 10 eyebrow piercing types explores the diverse options available in the world of body art.

Standard Eyebrow Piercing:

This is the classic piercing through the eyebrow, typically located above the eye’s outer corner.

Anti-Eyebrow Piercing:

Also known as a teardrop piercing, this is placed below the eye, creating a unique and distinctive look.

Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing:

The piercing is done horizontally through the eyebrow, offering a different aesthetic compared to the standard vertical placement.

Vertical Eyebrow Piercing:

This piercing goes vertically through the eyebrow, providing a more traditional style.

Bridge Piercing:

Positioned at the bridge of the nose between the eyebrows, this piercing creates an intriguing and bold statement.

Double Eyebrow Piercing:

This involves two separate piercings on the same eyebrow, providing a unique and balanced look.

Triple Eyebrow Piercing:

For those seeking even more uniqueness, three piercings can be placed on a single eyebrow.

Curved Barbell Piercing:

Often used in eyebrow piercings, a curved barbell follows the natural curve of the eyebrow, creating an elegant and stylish appearance.

How Long Do Eyebrow Piercings Take To Heal?

The healing time for eyebrow piercings can vary from person to person. Mostly, you can expect it to fully heal within 6 to 8 weeks. However, it’s important to note that complete healing, where the piercing is fully settled and no longer sensitive, can take several months to up to a year or more. Here’s a breakdown of the 3-step healing process:

1. Initial Healing (6-8 Weeks): During this period, the piercing site will typically close up and become less swollen. You may experience some tenderness, redness, and discharge. It’s crucial to follow aftercare instructions meticulously during this time to prevent infections and complications.
2. Intermediate Healing (2-6 Months): While the piercing may appear healed on the surface after 6-8 weeks, the inside is still strengthening and developing scar tissue. You may notice that the piercing is less sensitive and prone to irritation. You should do gentle cleaning and avoid changing the jewelry during this phase.
3. Full Healing (6 Months to 1 Year or More): Even though the piercing may seem healed, it’s essential to exercise patience during this phase. The tissue inside is still maturing, and the piercing may be vulnerable to irritation, especially if you change jewelry or bump it. You can continue with the aftercare and maintaining cleanliness to prevent further pain.

How Much Does It Cost To Get An Eyebrow Piercing?

Cost of getting your eyebrows pierced can vary significantly depending on a number of variables, such as the location, the track record and expertise of the piercing studio or piercer, the jewelry used, and any additional services offered. For the actual piercing, you should budget anywhere from $30 to $70.

Some studios include the cost of aftercare products or follow-up appointments in the initial price, while others may charge separately for these services. The prices may further vary significantly from one region to another. It’s a good idea to research local piercing studios to get an idea of the average prices in your area.

Aftercare Tips For Eyebrow Piercing

Proper aftercare is crucial in your eyebrow piercing journey. Following these top 10 aftercare tips will help ensure your piercing heals well and remains healthy:

☑️Cleanse with Saline Solution: Clean your eyebrow piercing twice a day using a saline solution or saline wound wash. This will remove debris and prevent infection. Avoid using alcohol-based or harsh cleansers, as they can irritate the piercing.

☑️Wash Your Hands Thoroughly: Before touching your piercing or cleaning it, make sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water. This step is crucial to prevent introducing harmful bacteria.

☑️Gentle Patting: After cleaning your piercing, gently pat the area dry with a clean, disposable paper towel or sterile gauze. Avoid using towels or fabrics that might foster bacteria.

🚫 No Touching: It’s essential to resist the temptation to touch or rotate the jewelry unnecessarily. Doing so can introduce bacteria and cause irritation.

🚫 Avoid Makeup and Creams: During the initial healing period, refrain from applying makeup, lotions, or creams around the piercing site. These products can introduce contaminants and hinder the healing process.

🚫 Stay Away from Pools And Hot Tubs: To prevent infection, avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or other bodies of water during the initial healing period. These environments can introduce bacteria.

☑️ Protect Your Piercing: Be mindful of activities that could expose your piercing to dirt, bacteria, or trauma. Cover it with a clean bandage or sterile dressing when necessary.

☑️ Hypoallergenic Jewlery: Stick to high-quality, hypoallergenic jewelry made from materials like surgical steel, titanium, or niobium.  Avoiding jewelry that contains nickel or other materials will prevent any allergic reactions.

☑️ Be Patient: Understand that eyebrow piercings can take several months to fully heal. Avoid changing the jewelry prematurely, as it can disrupt the healing process.

☑️ Seek Professional Guidance: If you notice any signs of infection such as excessive swelling, prolonged redness, or discharge with a foul odor, consult a healthcare professional for expert guidance and assistance.

Top Aftercare Tips For Eyebrow Piercing

Eyebrow piercings can be a stylish form of self-expression but it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and complications that may occur. (1) Some common side effects and risks associated with eyebrow piercings includes:

• Pain and Swelling: After the piercing procedure, it’s normal to experience some pain, tenderness, and swelling around the piercing site. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days to a week.
  
• Redness and Irritation: The area around the piercing may become red and irritated during the initial healing period. This is a natural part of the healing process.
  
• Infection: Infections are a potential risk with any piercing. Signs of infection may include increased redness, warmth, persistent pain, discharge with an unpleasant odor, and fever. Prompt attention and appropriate treatment are necessary if an infection occurs.
  
• Keloids and Hypertrophic Scarring: Some individuals may be prone to developing keloids or hypertrophic scars (2), which are raised and thickened scar tissue. These can occur at the site of the piercing.
  
• Migration and Rejection: In some cases, the body may treat the piercing as a foreign object and attempt to push it out. This can result in the piercing migrating (moving) or being rejected entirely.
  
• Jewlery Allergies: Allergic reactions to the materials used in the jewelry, such as nickel, can lead to redness, itching, and irritation around the piercing. Choosing high-quality, hypoallergenic jewelry can help prevent this issue.
  
• Asymmetry: Uneven healing or placement can result in an asymmetrical appearance, which may require adjustments or, in extreme cases, remove your jewelry.
  
• Tearing or Trauma: Accidental snagging or trauma to the piercing can cause discomfort, bleeding, and potential complications. Be cautious when dressing, combing your hair, or engaging in activities that may pose a risk.
  
• Scarring: While some scarring is normal with any piercing, improper aftercare or complications can lead to more noticeable or undesirable scarring.
  
• Eyebrow Hair Damage: The piercing may affect nearby eyebrow hair, potentially causing hair loss or affecting the growth pattern.

Foods To Avoid After You Get An Eyebrow Piercing

What goes in your body also significantly impact the healing time for your eyebrow piercing. While there aren’t specific foods to avoid, there are some general dietary considerations to keep in mind during the initial healing period:

❌ Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can potentially irritate the piercing site, especially if they lead to excessive sweating or cause discomfort. Be mindful of your spice tolerance and choose milder options if necessary.

❌ Hot Foods and Beverages: Extremely hot foods and beverages can increase blood flow to the area around the piercing, potentially leading to increased swelling and discomfort. Opt for lukewarm or cooler options during the initial healing phase.

❌ Alcohol: Alcohol can thin the blood and potentially increase bleeding at the piercing site. It can also impair judgment and coordination, which may lead to accidental trauma to the piercing. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, especially right after getting the piercing.

❌ Hard or Crunchy Foods: Chewing on hard or crunchy foods can put pressure on the piercing and may increase the risk of irritation or injury. Choose softer foods during the initial healing period.

❌ Acidic or Citrus Foods: Acidic foods and beverages like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar can be irritating to the piercing site. While you don’t need to completely avoid them, consume them in moderation and rinse your mouth afterward to minimize contact with the piercing.

❌ Dairy Products: Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt can introduce bacteria into the mouth. While they are generally safe to consume, be sure to maintain good oral hygiene by rinsing your mouth with saline solution or a non-alcoholic mouthwash after consuming dairy.

❌ Sugary Foods: Sugary foods can promote bacterial growth in the mouth, potentially increasing the risk of infection. Maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing your teeth gently and rinsing with saline solution.

❌ Hard Candy and Gum: Chewing on hard candy or gum can increase the risk of accidental trauma to the piercing. It’s best to avoid these during the initial healing phase.

❌ Excessive Salt: While a balanced diet is essential for healing, excessive salt intake can lead to increased swelling. You should monitor your salt consumption and stay well-hydrated.

Best Material/Jewlery For An Eyebrow Piercing

The choice of eyebrow piercing jewelry is a matter of personal preference. The primary aspect is to prioritize high-quality materials that are safe for your piercing. Some of the best materials and types of jewelry commonly used for eyebrow piercings includes:

1. Implant: Grade Titanium: Titanium is an excellent choice for eyebrow piercing jewelry. It’s lightweight, durable, and hypoallergenic. This makes it suitable for you if are someone with sensitive skin or metal allergies. Implant-grade titanium is highly recommended as it meets strict quality standards.
   
2. Surgical Steel: Surgical steel is another popular option for body jewelry, including eyebrow piercings. It’s durable and generally well-tolerated by most people. Look for jewelry made from 316L or 316LVM surgical steel for the best quality.
   
3. Niobium: Niobium is a hypoallergenic metal. It can be an excellent choice for those with metal sensitivities. It’s also known for its vibrant colors when anodized, adding a unique aesthetic to your piercing.
   
4. Gold: High-quality gold jewelry, such as 14k or 18k gold, can be a luxurious option for eyebrow piercings. Gold is hypoallergenic, and its warm color complements various styles. Ensure that the gold used is nickel-free and of the appropriate karat value.
   
5. Acrylic: Acrylic jewelry is lightweight and can come in various colors and styles. It’s often used for initial healing, but it’s essential to switch to metal jewelry once the piercing has fully healed. You should not use acrylic in fresh or unhealed piercings for an extended period.
   
6. Bioplast: Bioplast is a flexible, bio-compatible material that can be comfortable for initial healing. It’s less common but can be a suitable alternative if you’re concerned about metal allergies.
   
7. Curved Barbells: Curved barbells are the most common jeweler choice for eyebrow piercings. They have a gentle curve that follows the shape of the eyebrow, creating a visually pleasing effect. They come in various materials and designs.
   
8. Circular Barbells: Circular barbells, also known as horseshoe rings, feature a circular shape with two removable beads. They can provide a unique and edgy look for your eyebrow piercing.
   
9. Straight Barbells: Straight barbells are a versatile option, and while they are less common for eyebrow piercings, they can offer a clean and minimalistic aesthetic.
   
10. Surface Bars: Surface bars are used for surface piercings or more complex eyebrow piercings, like the scaffold piercing. They are designed to sit flat against the skin that help reduce the risk of migration or rejection.

Conclusion

To sum it up, eyebrow piercing dates back to the rich history in the 16th century. It has evolved from a symbol of rebellion to a new-age fashion statement among youth. With various types of piercings available, individuals can express their style and personality uniquely. While scarring is a possibility, proper aftercare can minimize its visibility, allowing individuals to enjoy their eyebrow piercings to the fullest.

To minimize the risk of side effects and complications, it’s crucial to choose a reputable and experienced piercer, follow proper aftercare instructions meticulously, and be attentive to any changes or issues with the piercing. If you experience any concerning symptoms such as excessive bleeding or swelling- consult your artist or a healthcare professional for guidance and appropriate treatment immediately. You must remember that proper care and patience are key to a successful and trouble-free healing process for your eyebrow piercing.

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