A spider bite piercing has become very popular in the last while. Not only is it attractive, but it is an attention-grabber too. You might not know too much about them, but this guide is here to help you. Then you can decide if a spider bite piercing is for you.

A spider bite piercing is made up of two piercings. They are placed next to each other to one side of the lower lip. Why are they called a spider bite piercing? The placement of the two piercings so close to each other makes them look like a spider.

How is a spider bite piercing done?

It’s imperative that you go to a reputable piercer who will offer you a safe and hygienic experience. The first thing he/she should do is check that the area is free of sores. Then he/she will disinfect the entire area in which the piercings will be done. This removes any bacteria that may be lurking on your skin. They can potentially cause an infection. That’s why it’s important to take measures to remove them.

A good piercer will ask about any prior piercings you’ve had done. He/she will ask you if you had any allergic reaction or any other complications. This will give him/her a sense of whether to proceed. It also allows him/her to decide what additional safety measures should be put in place to give you a positive experience.

The next thing the piercer will do is mark the exact placement of the piercing. This is critical. If the measurements are wrong, the spider bite effect won’t be created. All your effort will have been in vain.

Now, here’s the painful part. The piercer will now use a sterile hollow needle to make the piercings. Those who’ve had a spider bite piercing say that it hurts no more than having your ears pierced. They also say it’s less painful than a nose piercing, which is good news. It’s much like having an injection. There is a pricking sensation that lasts for seconds. Your body’s pain interrupters are stimulated immediately and will go to work to make the pain go away. The rings will then be inserted.

The best thing to do is close your eyes and take your mind to your happy place. It will distract you from the pain, and the piercing will be over before you know it.

What to do after you’ve had a spider bite piercing?

So, you did it! You got your spider bite piercing. What now? There are a few aftercare precautions you should take to make sure you don’t have a problem immediately after the procedure. You’ll need cotton wool, earbuds (Q-tips), and sea salt.

Don’t’ touch your piercing with your bare hand unless you’ve washed it with disinfectant. You can spread germs and infect your piercing with your own fingers. Make a solution of sea salt dissolved in warm water. Dip a cotton wool ball or wad in the solution and press it against the piercing. This needs to be done twice a day. There are also products you can buy to keep the area clean. Ask your piercer what he/she recommends.

After washing the pierced area, you need to dry it. But don’t do so with your bath towel. It may have bacteria on it which will lead to an infection. Use a clean paper towel to dab your piercing until it’s dry. Make sure that it’s as dry as possible.

Keep up your regular oral hygiene routine. But do try not to get toothpaste near your piercing because it may burn a little.

It’s advisable that you don’t drink alcohol or smoke during this time of your piercing healing. Eat yogurt to give your body a boost of ‘good’ bacteria.’

Don’t let any makeup near your piercing either.

Take the necessary precautions to make sure your piercing heals quickly. On average, it takes 1-3 months to heal. Do not change the jewelry in the piercing during this time.