A Guide to Vertical, Inverse, and Side Labret Piercings

Labret piercings are versatile as they go with almost all piercings. This expressive piercing is often placed as lip piercing and under lip piercing, but a few know how to really style it in multiple locations.

Different variations from middle lip piercing to vertical labret piercing for the helix, you can style them in many ways.

Introduction to Labret Piercing

So, what is a labret piercing? In its simplest form, a regular labret piercing is placed directly under the lower lip, usually in the centre. This spot is also known as the centre labret piercing.

There are many variations, such as the side labret lip piercing, the lower labret piercing, and even upper lip piercings, which are less common but equally stylish.

The most common jewellery used is a labret stud, also known as a labret earring. If you’ve ever wondered “what is a labret stud?”, it’s a post with a flat back, designed to sit comfortably inside the mouth. Labret studs come in different labret sizes and thicknesses (gauges).

Middle and Vertical Labret Piercings

A middle lip piercing usually refers to a center labret piercing, placed directly below the bottom lip.

The vertical labret piercing is slightly different as it runs vertically through the lip itself. Instead of going inside the mouth like a regular labret, it enters at the bottom and exits through the top of the lower lip. Jewellery for this type often includes curved barbells or rings, creating a striking look.

Some people confuse this with the inside Ashley piercing, but they are not the same. The inside Ashley piercing goes through the lip and exits inside the mouth, whereas the vertical labret piercing stays external.

Side Labret Piercing

A side labret piercing is placed off-centre, on the left or right side of the lower lip. This style allows for more creative jewellery options. Many people love wearing a side labret piercing hoop or a small lip ring, which gives a softer or edgier style depending on the look you want.

Variations include the low labret piercing or bottom labret piercing, which are positioned lower on the lip line.

Inside and Inverse Styles

The inside lip piercing (also called the inverse labret piercing) is placed behind the lower lip, with the jewellery sitting on the inside of the mouth. This makes it less visible, unlike a regular labret piercing.

Healing, Gauges, and Sizes

Healing is one of the biggest concerns when getting a labret piercing. The labret piercing healing time typically takes between 6 to 12 weeks, depending on your body and aftercare. Some people may heal faster, while others take longer.

If you’re wondering “what gauge is a labret piercing?”, most piercers use either 16g or 14g jewellery. The lip piercing gauge is important because it determines the thickness of the jewellery. Your piercer will usually start with a slightly longer barbell to accommodate swelling, then downsize later.

Labret sizes vary based on whether you choose a regular labret, vertical labret piercing, or side labret piercing hoop. Materials like surgical steel, titanium, and bioplast are recommended for faster healing and reduced irritation.

So now you can calmly draw to the bold vertical labret piercing, the subtle inside lip piercing, or the stylish side labret piercing hoop; there’s a style for everyone.

No matter which variation of the labret piercing you go for, invest in high-quality labret jewellery.