Chin piercing is a type of facial piercing that pierces the skin below the bottom lip through to the lower chin area. It is a surface piercing, meaning that the entrance and exit sites are pierced through the same flat surface of the skin; unlike a labret piercing, which enters into the mouth area, a chin piercing’s exit hole is set below the chin and does not pass into the mouth. Jewelry for these piercings commonly include studs, surface barbells and curved barbells.

Chin piercings can either be placed vertically or horizontally. Vertical piercings often are more popular because they typically heal more rapidly than horizontal piercings. Either type of piercing can result in infection, however; it is important to follow instructions to keep the piercing clean, and if any signs of infection occur, a visit to a doctor may be required. Allergic reactions also may occur, so any known allergy issues should be reported before piercing. Though it does not go through the mouth, a surface piercing such as this can still pick up germs on its way through your facial flesh. This is a risk with any type of body art and should be taken seriously during aftercare.

Soon after chin piercing, some slight bruising or redness may occur; this is a typical side effect of piercing. If the bruising and redness worsens, a visit to a doctor to test for infection may be wise. Like other piercings, a chin piercing requires care in order to heal properly and quickly. Using a sea salt and water mixture to cleanse the open wounds made by the jewelry may effectively clean and sterilize the area. Soaking jewelry at least once a week in either sea salt and water or in a product recommended by the piercer also can help prevent infection.

As with any other body piercing, a chin piercing can cause a high level of pain. Those who opt to have a double chin piercing should be prepared, however, as two of these painful piercings at the same time can add extra stress the body. Two chin piercings at once typically are evenly spaced on the chin next to each other, and generally take a longer time to heal than a single piercing.