The Ultimate Face Piercing Chart: Your Guide To Styles And Placements

Kian Grimes 29 Jul 2025

Thinking about adding a little sparkle to your look, perhaps a unique facial adornment? It's a pretty exciting idea, that. A face piercing chart can really be your best friend when you're just starting to explore all the wonderful possibilities out there. It helps you get a clear picture of where different piercings go and what they're called, which is actually quite helpful for anyone curious about this form of personal expression.

There are so many cool ways to show off your personality, and face piercings are a very popular choice for many folks. From subtle studs to more noticeable arrangements, each one offers a distinct vibe. You know, it's almost like designing a little piece of art right on your own skin, picking just the right spot for it.

This guide is here to help you get a good grasp on the different types of face piercings you might consider. We'll go through what each one means, where it typically sits, and what you might expect if you choose to get one. It’s a bit like mapping out your own personal style journey, you see, so let's get into it.

What is a Face Piercing Chart?
Popular Face Piercing Types
Choosing the Right Face Piercing
Healing and Aftercare Essentials
Risks and Things to Think About
Finding a Good Piercer
Current Trends in Face Piercings
Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Face Piercing Chart?

A face piercing chart is basically a visual guide, like a map of the face. It points out where different types of piercings are commonly placed. This can be really helpful for folks who are trying to figure out what they want, you know, or just learning the proper names for things.

It usually shows a diagram of a face with little markers for each piercing spot. So, you can easily see, say, where a "Medusa" piercing goes versus a "Monroe." It takes a lot of the guesswork out of things, which is pretty nice.

For someone totally new to this, it’s a great starting point. It helps you get a sense of the possibilities and what might look good on your own unique face. In some respects, it helps you visualize the changes you're considering.

Popular Face Piercing Types

There are so many different kinds of face piercings, each with its own special placement and look. It's quite interesting to see how varied they can be. Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular ones you might come across, you know, when you're browsing for ideas.

Eyebrow Piercings

These piercings go through the skin above the eye, usually at an angle. They can be placed anywhere along the eyebrow ridge, really, though the outer edge is quite common. They are typically done with a curved barbell or a small ring, giving a subtle but noticeable touch.

Healing time for an eyebrow piercing often ranges from 6 to 8 weeks. Keeping it clean is very important, as with any new piercing. You just want to be gentle with it.

Bridge Piercings

A bridge piercing sits horizontally across the bridge of the nose, right between the eyes. It's a surface piercing, meaning it goes through the skin rather than cartilage. This kind of piercing can create a really striking look, you know, especially if you have a prominent nose bridge.

These can take a bit longer to settle in, sometimes 2 to 3 months for initial healing. It’s pretty important to avoid knocking it, as that can cause irritation. Basically, treat it with care.

Nostril Piercings

This is probably one of the most common face piercings, sitting on the side of the nose. You can choose to have it on either side, or even both, for a symmetrical look. It’s a pretty versatile spot for various types of jewelry, like studs or hoops.

Nostril piercings generally heal in about 2 to 4 months. Keeping the area clean and avoiding makeup around it helps a lot. It’s a classic for a reason, you see.

Septum Piercings

A septum piercing goes through the "sweet spot" of the septum, which is the soft tissue just inside the tip of the nose, not the cartilage itself. It’s a very popular choice, allowing for a wide range of jewelry styles, from small rings to more decorative pieces. You can often flip it up to hide it, which is quite convenient for some folks.

These usually heal in about 6 to 8 weeks, sometimes a little longer. It's pretty important to keep it clean and avoid playing with it, just like any other fresh piercing.

High Nostril Piercings

Unlike regular nostril piercings, these sit higher up on the nose, closer to the bridge. People often get two of them, one on each side, for a unique, symmetrical look. They tend to be a bit more subtle than a standard nostril piercing, in a way.

Healing can take a bit longer, perhaps 4 to 6 months, because of the denser tissue higher up. It’s good to be patient with these, you know, and keep them very clean.

Labret Piercings

A labret piercing sits just below the center of the lower lip. It’s a classic choice that can really draw attention to the mouth area. You can wear a flat-backed stud here, which is pretty comfortable for most people.

These typically heal in 6 to 8 weeks. Oral piercings need special attention to oral hygiene, so rinsing with non-alcoholic mouthwash is often suggested. It's a fairly straightforward piercing, actually.

Medusa Piercings

Also known as a philtrum piercing, this one is placed in the indentation just above the upper lip, right in the center. It’s a very eye-catching piercing that can really enhance the shape of the upper lip. It’s usually done with a flat-backed stud, which is pretty common for this area.

Healing time is often 6 to 12 weeks. Like other oral piercings, good mouth care is key. You really want to keep it clean inside and out.

Monroe Piercings

This piercing sits on the upper lip, off to one side, mimicking Marilyn Monroe's beauty mark. It’s a classic and stylish choice that adds a touch of glamor. It’s typically done with a flat-backed stud, just like a Medusa, you know, for comfort.

Healing generally takes 6 to 12 weeks. Again, maintaining good oral hygiene is very important to avoid issues. It’s a pretty distinctive look, that.

Dahlia Piercings

Dahlia piercings are placed at the corners of the mouth. People usually get two of them, one on each side, creating a unique symmetrical effect. They can be quite bold and really frame the mouth area, in some respects.

These can take a bit longer to heal, sometimes 3 to 6 months, due to the movement of the mouth. Careful aftercare and gentle eating habits are really important here. It's a rather uncommon choice, but quite striking.

Dimple Piercings

Also known as cheek piercings, these go through the cheeks, creating the appearance of dimples. They are quite deep piercings and can be very charming. You typically get one on each cheek for that dimpled look, you see.

Healing can be lengthy, often 3 to 6 months, or even longer. They do require a good bit of commitment to aftercare, as they are prone to swelling. It’s a pretty significant piercing, that.

Vertical Labret Piercings

This piercing goes through the center of the lower lip, from the top edge to just below the lip. Unlike a traditional labret, it doesn't enter the mouth, which is a big plus for many people. It showcases the jewelry on both the top and bottom of the lip.

Healing usually takes about 6 to 8 weeks. It’s generally considered easier to heal than a traditional labret since it avoids the inside of the mouth. You know, it's a pretty neat alternative.

Jestrum Piercings

A jestrum piercing is essentially a vertical Medusa. It goes through the center of the upper lip, from the top edge to just below the lip, mirroring the vertical labret. It highlights the curve of the cupid's bow beautifully.

Similar to the vertical labret, it typically heals in 6 to 8 weeks. Since it doesn't go into the mouth, aftercare is a bit simpler. It’s a very elegant piercing, actually.

Cyber Bites Piercings

Cyber bites are a combination of a Medusa piercing (above the upper lip) and a labret piercing (below the lower lip). They create a vertical line of symmetry on the face. It’s a very balanced and striking look, you know, for those who like symmetry.

Healing times will vary based on the individual piercings, but generally, expect 6 to 12 weeks for each. Proper care for both is pretty important. It’s a pretty bold statement.

Snake Bites Piercings

Snake bites consist of two piercings placed symmetrically on the lower lip, one on each side. They often resemble a snake's fangs, hence the name. You can wear rings or studs, depending on the look you want, which is quite flexible.

These usually heal in 6 to 12 weeks. Like other oral piercings, good oral hygiene is key to a smooth healing process. It’s a very popular choice, that.

Spider Bites Piercings

Spider bites are two piercings placed very close together on one side of the lower lip. They give the appearance of a spider bite, as the name suggests. It's a bit more clustered than snake bites, offering a different kind of visual interest.

Healing typically takes 6 to 12 weeks. Just like snake bites, keeping your mouth clean is pretty important. It’s a rather distinctive look, you see.

Angel Bites Piercings

Angel bites are the upper lip equivalent of snake bites. They are two piercings placed symmetrically on the upper lip, one on each side, above the corners of the mouth. They can really frame the upper lip nicely.

These usually heal in 6 to 12 weeks. Again, oral hygiene is a big part of the aftercare for these. It’s a pretty charming combination, that.

Dolphin Bites Piercings

Dolphin bites consist of two piercings placed very close together on the lower lip, right in the center. They are essentially a double labret, giving a concentrated look below the lip. It’s a pretty unique arrangement, you know.

Healing time is generally 6 to 12 weeks. Maintaining good oral hygiene is very important for these. They offer a very specific aesthetic.

Canine Bites Piercings

Canine bites combine both snake bites (lower lip, sides) and angel bites (upper lip, sides). This creates a total of four piercings, one on each corner of the mouth, both top and bottom. It’s a very bold and symmetrical look, you know, for those who want to make a statement.

Given there are four piercings, healing can be a longer process overall, perhaps 6 to 12 weeks for each spot. It really requires dedication to aftercare. It's a pretty intense setup, that.

Cheek Piercings

These are the same as dimple piercings, going through the cheeks to create the look of natural dimples. They are quite deep and can be a significant commitment. They can also involve some risks, so it's good to be fully aware.

As mentioned, healing is often 3 to 6 months or more. They need very careful attention during the healing period. It’s a rather impactful choice, you see.

Anti-Eyebrow Piercings

An anti-eyebrow piercing is a surface piercing placed on the upper cheekbone, just below the outer corner of the eye. It runs diagonally, following the curve of the bone. It offers a very distinctive and often subtle accent to the eye area.

These surface piercings can be a bit more prone to rejection, and healing typically takes 2 to 3 months. Careful aftercare and avoiding pressure on the area are pretty important. It’s a rather delicate placement.

Choosing the Right Face Piercing

Picking the perfect face piercing is a very personal decision, and there are several things you might want to think about. It's not just about what looks cool, you know, but also what fits your life. You're trying to select faces, in a way, that will work best for you.

First, consider your daily activities. Do you wear glasses? Does your job have rules about visible piercings? These things actually matter quite a bit. Also, think about your anatomy; some piercings just sit better on certain face shapes or structures. Your piercer can really help you with this, by the way.

Pain tolerance is another thing to keep in mind, though most piercings are just a quick pinch. What’s more important is the commitment to healing. Some piercings, like dimple or cheek piercings, can take a long time to settle. You really want to be prepared for that journey, so to speak.

Healing and Aftercare Essentials

Proper aftercare is very, very important for any new piercing. It's basically the key to a smooth healing process and avoiding any trouble. You want to make sure your new piercing heals up nicely, right?

Generally, you should clean your piercing with a sterile saline solution, usually twice a day. Avoid touching it with unwashed hands, as that can introduce germs. It’s pretty simple, but so crucial.

Also, try to avoid makeup, lotions, or harsh soaps near the piercing site. Don't pick at crusties or rotate the jewelry, as this can irritate the healing tissue. Just let it be, more or less, and it will do its thing. For more detailed advice, you can check out a trusted health resource on piercing aftercare.

Risks and Things to Think About

While face piercings are generally safe when done correctly, there are some things you should be aware of. It's good to know the possible downsides, you know, before you commit. You want to be fully informed, after all.

Infection is a main concern, which is why good hygiene is so important. Signs might include redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. Another thing is rejection, where your body pushes the jewelry out, or migration, where it moves from its original spot. Scarring is also a possibility, especially with surface piercings or if complications arise.

For oral piercings, dental issues like chipped teeth or gum recession can sometimes happen. Choosing the right jewelry and placement can help reduce these risks. It's pretty important to talk through all of these points with your piercer, too.

Finding a Good Piercer

Choosing a skilled and reputable piercer is, arguably, the most important step in the whole process. A good piercer makes all the difference for a safe and successful piercing. You really want someone who knows what they're doing, you know.

Look for a studio that is very clean and professional. They should use sterile, single-use needles and high-quality jewelry. Ask to see their portfolio, and don't be afraid to ask questions about their experience and practices. A good piercer will happily answer all your concerns, by the way.

Word-of-mouth recommendations can be very helpful, so ask friends who have piercings where they went. Remember, a cheap piercing isn't always a good one. Investing in a professional is pretty much always worth it for your health and the outcome of your piercing. Learn more about piercing safety on our site, and link to this page for tips on finding a good piercer.

Current Trends in Face Piercings

Just like fashion, piercing styles tend to shift and change over time. What's popular today might be different next year, you know, but some classics always stick around. It’s pretty interesting to see what people are choosing these days.

Currently, there's a lot of interest in combinations of piercings that create a specific "look," like the various "bites" setups. Also, delicate, minimalist jewelry is very much in style, making even bold placements feel a bit more subtle. People are also exploring unique placements, like high nostrils or multiple eyebrow piercings, to create their own personal arrangement. It’s all about expressing yourself, really, and finding what feels right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do face piercings take to heal?

A: Healing times can vary quite a bit, actually, depending on the specific piercing and your body. Generally, they can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months, sometimes even longer for deeper piercings like cheeks. It's pretty important to follow all aftercare advice until it's fully healed, you know.

Q: Do face piercings hurt a lot?

A: Pain is pretty subjective, so what hurts one person might not bother another. Most people describe the actual piercing process as a quick, sharp pinch, more of a momentary discomfort than lasting pain. The pain usually subsides very quickly, actually, leaving just a dull ache or tenderness. It’s usually not as bad as people imagine, you see.

Q: What are the risks of face piercings?

A: Like any body modification, there are some potential risks involved. These can include infection, which is why good hygiene is so important, and allergic reactions to jewelry materials. There's also a chance of the piercing migrating or being rejected by your body, or even scarring. For oral piercings, dental damage like chipped teeth or gum issues can sometimes occur. It’s pretty important to discuss these with your piercer beforehand.

So, there you have it, a good overview of the different face piercing options available. It’s clear that choosing a face piercing is a very personal journey, one that requires a bit of thought and preparation. From understanding the various placements on a face piercing chart to picking a good piercer, each step helps you make a choice you’ll love. It’s all about finding that perfect spot that feels just right for you, you know, a bit like finding the right "face" in a design project. Enjoy exploring your options!

Face Piercings Chart

Facial Piercings Infographic Chart Poster Various Locations of - Etsy