What is a Vertical Labret Piercing?
A vertical labret creates a bold lip statement. Two piercings pierce vertically through the center of the lower lip. The entry and exit points sit evenly underneath the bottom lip line. This distinctive piercing orientation demands attention. Vertical labrets stand out from traditional labret styles. Their vertical nature highlights and frames the lip area beautifully. With stylish jewelry selections, vertical labrets turn lips into striking accessories.
Brief History of Labret Piercings
The name “labret” stems from the Latin word for lip. Ancient cultures like the Aztecs, Mayans, and Indigenous tribes adorned their labrets. These primitive piercings held symbolic spiritual meaning. They denoted rites of passage and social status. By the 1990s, labret piercings reemerged on the modern body piercing scene. Vertical orientations provided an edgier twist on the classic labret. Today, vertical labrets exemplify bold lip statements.
Vertical Labret Piercing Procedure
Vertical labrets require a specific piercing technique. Only experienced professional piercers should perform them:
- The anatomy inside the mouth is carefully examined
- The ideal entry points are marked on the lower lip
- A hollow piercing needle channels cleanly through both sides
- A curved barbell or captive bead ring completes the piercing
- Starter labret jewelry accommodates initial swelling
Proper placement prevents complications like migration. The piercing takes around 2-3 months to fully heal with diligent care.
Comparing Vertical vs. Standard Labrets
Vertical and standard labret piercings differ in several ways:
Vertical Labrets
- Two entry/exit holes run vertically down the center
- The lip area becomes the prime focal point
- More surface area for showcasing intricate jewelry
Standard Labrets
- One entry hole below the lip line or corner
- The jewelry appears more subtle and understated
- Limited hanging room for elaborate jewelry styles
Vertical labrets make more extravagant fashion statements. Yet both piercings enable showcasing diverse jewelry selections.
Vertical Labrets for Different Face Shapes
Vertical labret piercings complement nearly all face shapes:
Round Faces
- The vertical line creates balanced angles and dimension
- An elongated effect slims and defines the chin/lip area
Square/Heart Faces
- Vertical emphasis softens sharper jawline angles
- The piercing lends symmetry to broader forehead areas
Oval Faces
- The piercing flows smoothly with oval’s natural contours
- It provides a perfectly centered lip accent
Upswept labret jewelry enhances or minimizes facial features as desired. Finding the ideal length, gauge size, and embellishments personalizes the look.
The Initial Healing Period for Vertical Labrets
Vertical labrets require considerable healing time and care:
Week 1: Significant Swelling
- The lip swells extensively as piercing channels establish
- Stick to cold foods and beverages for relief
Weeks 2-3: Oozing and Crusting
- Fluids ooze from piercings as healing progresses
- Rinse frequently with saltwater or antimicrobial solutions
Months 1-2: Tightening Phase
- The piercing channels contract and shrink (“piercing leak”)
- Move jewelry regularly to discourage premature closure
Proper aftercare like ice, rinses, and avoiding trauma accelerates healing. Be patient as full recovery takes 2-3 months.
Optimal Vertical Labret Jewelry Choices
Once healed, endless vertical labret jewelry styles await:
Simple Curved Barbells
- Basic circular barbells in quality implant-grade metals
- Opt for swappable decorative accent bead ends
Captive Bead Rings
- Continuous seamless rings suspend through the labret
- Customized with ornate gemstone inlays or designs
Hanging Charm Labrets
- Unique charms dangle in various lengths below the lip
- Endless charm themes express one’s personality
Wave Labret Barbells
- The bar forms elegant curved wave patterns
- Create visual interest mimicking lip contours
Quality internal threaded pieces allow endless jewelry interchanging. This maximizes the vertical labret’s creative potential.
Vertical Labret Materials & Sizing
Vertical labrets require body-safe, durable materials:
Metals
- Implant-grade titanium and niobium alloys are ideal
- 14k gold, platinum, and nickel-free options minimize reactions
Organic Materials
- Naturally shed animal materials like horn or bone
- Carved woods and water buffalo vary the aesthetic
Gemstones & Inlays
- Genuine or lab-created gemstones provide flair
- Metallic inlays create gorgeous patterned designs
Proper sizing accounts for initial swelling. Most start with longer 5/8″ barbells before downsizing later on.
Mixing Vertical Labrets With Other Piercings
Vertical labrets coordinate flawlessly with additional lip piercings:
- Single or double standard labret studs offset vertically
- Multiple vertical labrets stacked with connecting chains
- Monroe (lip dimple) piercings enhance the pierced lip aesthetic
Mixing in other lip or facial piercings amplifies the edgy alternative vibe. Just ensure breathable materials in the oral area.
Caring for Healed Vertical Labret Piercings
Even healed, vertical labrets require special maintenance:
- Rinse inside the mouth after eating or drinking
- Use non-alcohol, antibacterial mouth rinses regularly
- Rotate the jewelry while cleaning to prevent sticking
- Replace well-worn jewelry before it becomes hazardous
- Sleep on breathable fabrics like satin to minimize irritation
With daily dedication, vertical labrets remain pain-free and attractive for years.
Potential Vertical Labret Complications
With conscientious care, complications minimize. However, beware:
Oral Issues
- Thick jewelry wearing against gums causes recession
- Sharing utensils or unsanitary habits transmit bacteria
- Metal allergies trigger excessive swelling and irritation
Structural Damage
- Constant playing or snags can rip the piercing channel
- Trauma shifts the initial positioning causing migration
- Embedment happens if downsizing is delayed too long
Reporting concerning symptoms like fever or lymph inflammation is crucial. Seeking professional help prevents serious escalations.
Career Considerations With Vertical Labrets
In certain environments, vertical labrets raise concerns:
Conservative Fields
- Heavy jewelry may appear distracting in client-facing roles
- Some companies prohibit oral piercings for liability
Hands-On Labor
- Certain positions like daycare or food service restrict them
- Jewelry catching or embedment risks may impact performance
However, creative fields embrace visible piercings as self-expression. Planning jewelry changes for different occasions accommodates various dress codes.
Celebrities Who Rock Vertical Labrets
A-List figures inspire with their vertical labret statements:
Kesha
- Her hamsa charm labrets reflect spirituality
Wiz Khalifa
- Seamless rings complement his streetwear looks
Paris Hilton
- Gem-studded barbells exude signature glam
Willow Smith
- Avant-garde charm dangles match her eclectic persona
Avril Lavigne
- Classic barbells reinforce her punk rocker edge
From musicians to models, vertical labrets accent distinctive styles effortlessly. Celebrities showcase the piercing’s fashion potential.
The Bottom Line on Vertical Labrets
Vertical labret piercings pack major impact into a compact area. Their prominent vertical arrangement frames and highlights the lips beautifully. Though a challenging piercing to heal, the results enable endless stylistic creativity. Quality vertical labret jewelry becomes a permanent accessory. Embellished waves, charms, and gems transform the entire look. With proper technique, materials, and care, these piercings prove both edgy and wearable long-term. For those seeking bold lip statements, vertical labrets provide the ultimate iconic accent.
