Are you looking for a unique and edgy way to express yourself?
Do you love the idea of having a piercing that resembles the eyes of a snake?
If so, you might be interested in getting a snake eyes piercing.
A snake eyes tongue piercing is a horizontal piercing that goes through the tip of the tongue. It is one of the few oral piercings that are placed horizontally rather than vertically.
But before you decide to get this piercing, you need to know what it involves, how it affects your oral health, and what are the pros and cons of having it.
In this guide, we will explore:
How they are done
How to clean and maintain them.
How long they take to heal.
How much they hurt.
How much they cost.
How to take care of them post-piercing.
The associated risks and complications.
The pros and cons to consider.
How to choose the best jewelry, including materials and styles.
How to style, change, and flaunt your snake eyes piercing.
A comparison with other tongue piercings.
FAQ addressing all your concerns.
By the end of this guide, you will have a clear idea of whether snake eyes piercing is right for you or not.
A snake eyes piercing is a type of tongue piercing that involves inserting a curved barbell through the tip of the tongue horizontally, creating the appearance of two snake eyes on either side of the tongue. This piercing is also known as a front tongue piercing, or a horizontal tongue piercing.
The first step to getting a snake eyes piercing is finding a reputable and experienced piercer. You should do some research and read reviews before choosing a piercing studio. You should also make sure that the studio follows proper hygiene and safety standards.
Marking the Placement
Once you find a good piercer, they will examine your tongue and make sure that it is suitable for this piercing. They will also explain the procedure and have you sign some consent forms.
The piercer will then mark two dots on the tip of your tongue with a surgical pen. These marks will indicate where the needle will go through. You should check these marks and make sure that you like the placement before proceeding.
The piercer will then use a clamp to hold your tongue in place and prevent it from moving. They will then insert a hollow needle horizontally through your tongue, from one mark to the other. The needle will be followed by a curved barbell, which will be the jewelry for your piercing.
The piercer will then screw the balls on both ends of the barbell and clean your tongue with some antiseptic solution. They will also give you some aftercare instructions and tips on how to reduce swelling and pain.
The whole procedure should take no more than 10 minutes, depending on how cooperative you are and how skilled your piercer is.
Cleaning your snake eyes piercing is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. You should clean your piercing twice a day, in the morning and at night, for the first two weeks. To clean your piercing, you will need a saline solution, cotton balls or swabs, and a clean towel.
Follow these steps to clean your snake eyes piercing:
Remove any crust or debris that may have formed around the jewelry
Do not rotate or move your jewelry, as this can cause irritation or damage
Pat your piercing dry with a clean towel
Do not use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other harsh chemicals to clean your piercing, as they can dry out or burn your tongue
How Long Does Snake Eyes Piercing Take to Heal?
The healing time for a snake eyes piercing varies from person to person, but it usually takes between 4 to 8 weeks. During this time, the tongue may swell, bleed, bruise, or feel sore. It is important to follow the aftercare instructions given by the piercer, such as rinsing the mouth with saline solution or alcohol-free mouthwash, avoiding spicy or acidic foods and drinks, and refraining from smoking or kissing.
How Much Does Snake Eyes Piercing Hurt?
During the Procedure
Experiencing pain is a deeply subjective matter, varying significantly among individuals. Nevertheless, a general consensus among recipients of the snake eyes tongue piercing is that the pain, surprisingly, falls below expectations.
When evaluating pain on a scale ranging from 1 (pain-free) to 10 (extremely painful), the snake eyes piercing typically sits at a manageable level of 4 or 5. This rating indicates a moderate level of pain that is bearable for most.
Pinpointing the Pain
While there is a moment of discomfort as the needle passes through, this sensation is brief and often described as tolerable by individuals who have experienced it. The procedure is designed for comfort, with the needle moving swiftly through the tongue and the barbell inserted smoothly.
During the piercing process, expect a sensation that is quick and sharp, not unlike the feeling you get when you accidentally bite your tongue. However, this sensation is fleeting and manageable. While the clamps or forceps used to hold the tongue might cause slight discomfort, this is typically minimal and short-lived.
Post-Procedure Pain
While some individuals report feeling increased discomfort after the procedure than during it, this is a normal part of the healing process and is to be expected. In the days following the procedure, you might experience some swelling and soreness in the tongue, which may temporarily affect speaking, eating, and drinking. However, these symptoms are a normal part of the healing process and should improve quickly.
How much is Snake Eyes Piercing Cost?
Factors Affecting the Cost
The cost of snake eyes piercing depends on several factors, such as:
The location and popularity of the piercing studio
The experience and reputation of the piercer
The quality and material of the jewelry
The aftercare products and services
Average Cost
On average, snake eyes piercing can cost anywhere from $60 to $100, not including the jewelry. Jewelry can range from $10 to $30 per piece, depending on the material and design.
You should also factor in a 20% tip for your piercer, as well as some extra money for aftercare products, such as saline solution, mouthwash, and ice packs.
Choosing Wisely
When choosing a piercing studio and a piercer, you should not base your decision solely on price. You should also consider their professionalism, cleanliness, safety, and customer service. Remember that you get what you pay for, and cheap piercings can lead to expensive complications.
How to Take Care of Snake Eyes Piercing
General Aftercare Tips
Taking good care of your snake eyes tongue piercing is crucial for its healing and prevention of infections. Here are some general aftercare tips that you should follow:
Sip and Swish:
After munching on your favorite meal or sipping on that delicious latte, give your mouth a good rinse with a saline solution or an alcohol-free mouthwash. Trust me, it keeps unwanted invaders (like bacteria) at bay.
Gentle Dental:
Keep that smile sparkling! Brush softly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Remember, avoid being a clumsy dentist, and keep the brush away from your piercing.
Say No to Some Pleasures… for Now:
Smoking, alcohol, and certain drugs – they’re not your piercing’s best friends. They can dry it out or worse, mess up the healing process.
Sealed Lips:
I know, I know. Holding off on smooches, getting up close and personal, or sharing your drink might sound like a buzzkill. But trust me, it’s just a short-term sacrifice for a long-term gain.
Food Choices Matter:
You might want to hold off on that spicy taco or crispy fries. Stick to soft, cold, and bland foods at first. Your tongue will thank you!
Hydration Station:
Guzzle down that water! It not only keeps you hydrated but also aids in the healing process.
Swelling Solutions:
Ice chips and anti-inflammatory meds like ibuprofen can be your best friends during the initial days. They help keep swelling and pain in check.
Beauty Sleep:
Elevate that head on a fluffy pillow when hitting the hay. It prevents unnecessary swelling.
Jewelry Checks:
Too tight? Too loose? Do regular checks. We don’t want any nasty surprises.
Hands Off:
I get it, new shiny things are tempting to play with. But resist the urge! Playing with the jewelry can delay healing.
Patience is Key:
Hold off on swapping out that jewelry. Give it time, typically 6 to 12 weeks.
What are the risks of snake eyes piercing?
Snake eyes piercing is a distinctive tongue piercing, but it’s also considered one of the high-risk piercings. The following are potential complications associated with this piercing:
1. Infection
The mouth is teeming with bacteria that can infiltrate the piercing site, leading to infections. Infections can manifest as:
Redness
Pus
Fever
Pain
It’s worth noting that an infection can also advance to other body parts via the bloodstream, posing severe health risks.
2. Migration
Over time, the jewelry might shift from its initial placement, which can result in:
Irritation
Scarring
Rejection by the body
Alteration in the appearance of the piercing makes it asymmetrical or skewed.
3. Damage to Teeth and Gums
The metal balls on the jewelry can chafe against your teeth and gums, leading to:
Erosion
Cracking or chipping of teeth
Sensitivity
Tooth decay, gum diseases, or even tooth loss in severe cases.
4. Nerve Damage
There’s a risk of harming the nerves in the tongue, which can impact:
Speech
Taste
Swallowing
Tongue movement
Signs of Trouble
Always keep an eyes on your piercing, especially during the initial healing phase. Be vigilant for the following signs of trouble:
Redness
Swelling
Pus
Fever
Bad odor
Pain
Bleeding
If any of these symptoms emerge, it’s crucial to reach out to your piercing professional or a medical practitioner immediately. They might recommend antibiotics or other medications to address the infection.
What are the Pros and Cons of Snake Eyes Piercing?
Pros:
Unique and edgy appearance
Easy to hide or show off
Enhances oral sensations
Can be customized with different jewelry styles and colors
Cons:
High risk of infection, migration, rejection, or damage
The long and painful healing process
Difficult to perform and maintain
May interfere with oral functions or activities
How to Choose the Best Jewelry for Snake Eyes Piercing
If you have decided to get a snake eyes tongue piercing, you might be wondering what kind of jewelry you should wear. Now, we talk about the types and materials of jewelry that are suitable for snake eyes piercing, as well as some tips on how to care for your new piercing.
Types of Jewelry
The best piece of jewelry for snake eyes piercing is a curved barbell. A curved barbell is a metal rod that has two balls on each end that screws into place at the entry and exit points of the piercing.
Curved Barbell
A curved barbell is ideal for snake eyes piercing because it follows the natural curve of your tongue and minimizes the risk of migration or rejection. Migration is when the piercing moves from its original position, and rejection is when the body pushes out the jewelry as a foreign object.
Other types of jewelry, such as straight barbells, rings, or studs, are not recommended for snake eyes tongue piercing because they can cause damage to your teeth, gums, or tongue.
Curved Barbell
Materials of Jewelry
The material of the jewelry should be biocompatible (meaning that it does not cause allergic reactions) and durable (meaning that it does not corrode or tarnish).
Some of the best materials for snake eyes piercing are:
Surgical Steel
Surgical steel is a type of stainless steel that has been specially treated to make it safe for body piercings. It is strong, shiny, and resistant to rust and scratches. However, some people may be allergic to nickel, which is a component of surgical steel.
Titanium
Titanium is a lightweight metal that has a high resistance to corrosion and oxidation. It is also hypoallergenic, meaning that it does not cause allergic reactions. Titanium comes in different colors and finishes, such as polished, matte, anodized, or rainbow.
Gold
Gold is a precious metal that has a warm and luxurious appearance. It is also hypoallergenic if it is pure (24 karats) or mixed with other metals that are safe for body piercings (such as platinum). However, gold can be expensive and soft, meaning that it can bend or scratch easily.
Bioplast
Bioplast is a type of plastic that is flexible and biocompatible. It can reduce swelling and irritation by adapting to the shape of your tongue. It can also be autoclaved (sterilized by high-pressure steam), making it safe for body piercings. Bioplast comes in different colors and shapes.
Sizes of Jewelry for Snake Eyes Piercing
Thickness of the Barbell
The size of the jewelry refers to the thickness and length of the barbell that goes through the two holes on the tip of your tongue.
The thickness of the barbell is measured by its gauge, which is the diameter of the metal rod. The higher the gauge number, the thinner the barbell. For example, a 16-gauge barbell is thinner than a 14-gauge barbell.
Length of the Barbell
The length of the barbell is measured by its millimeters, which is the distance between the two balls on each end. The longer the barbell, the more space it takes on your tongue.
General Guidelines for Choosing the Size
The size of the jewelry for snake eyes piercings depends on your personal preference and anatomy, but there are some general guidelines to follow:
For the initial piercing, you should choose a thicker and longer barbell to accommodate swelling and healing. A common size for the initial piercing is 14 gauge (1.6 mm) and 5/8 inch (16 mm) in length.
For the healed piercing, you can switch to a thinner and shorter barbell to reduce irritation and damage to your teeth and gums. A common size for the healed piercing is 16 gauge (1.2 mm) and 1/2 inch (12 mm) in length.
You should avoid excessively thin or long barbells, as they can cause migration or rejection of the piercing. Migration is when the piercing moves from its original position, and rejection is when your body pushes out the jewelry as a foreign object.
How to Style and Enjoy Your Snake Eyes Tongue Piercing
The snake eyes tongue piercing offers versatility in style and a unique sensual appeal. By exploring various jewelry designs and playful expressions, you can truly make this piercing your own.
Jewelry Choices: Opt for different designs like balls, spikes, cones, gems, pearls, or even glow-in-the-dark pieces.
Material Mix: Experiment with materials such as metal, plastic, glass, or wood to get a distinct look.
Expression: Embrace the fun by sticking out your tongue, making amusing faces, or twiddling with the jewelry.
Sensual Appeal: The piercing can enhance oral sensations during intimate moments like kissing, ensuring both care and hygiene are observed.
How to Change or Remove Your Jewelry Safely and Easily
Changing or removing your jewelry requires some care and caution to avoid hurting yourself or your piercing. Follow these steps to do it safely and easily.
Wait for your piercing to heal. Don’t change or remove your jewelry until your piercing is fully healed, which can take 4 to 8 weeks on average.
Wash your hands and sanitize your jewelry. Clean your hands with soap and water and dry them with a clean towel. Sanitize your jewelry by soaking it in alcohol or boiling water for a few minutes.
Use a mirror and a pair of pliers. Use a mirror to see what you are doing and use a pair of pliers to unscrew the balls on both ends of the barbell. Be gentle and careful with the pliers, as they can damage your jewelry or skin.
Slide out the old barbell and insert the new one. Gently slide out the old barbell from one hole and insert the new one from the other hole. Make sure the new barbell is the same size and material as the old one, and that it is aligned with your piercing.
Screw the balls back on securely and check the alignment. Screw the balls back on securely using the pliers, but don’t over-tighten them. Check the alignment of your jewelry again and make sure it is comfortable.
Rinse your mouth with saline solution or mouthwash. If you have an oral piercing, rinse your mouth with saline solution or mouthwash after changing or removing your jewelry. This will help clean your piercing and prevent infection. Avoid eating or drinking anything for an hour after changing or removing your jewelry.
How to Show Off Your Piercing and Have Fun with It
Having a snake eyes piercing is not just about the aesthetic appeal; it’s also about the unique experiences and confidence it brings. Here’s how to revel in the spotlight and enjoy your piercing to the fullest:
Photo Sessions: Capture the essence of your piercing with a themed photo shoot. Use creative lighting and angles to emphasize the shine and design of your jewelry.
Tongue Tricks: Learn a few tongue tricks, such as rolling, flipping, or even simple movements that display your piercing prominently.
Accessorize with Purpose: Pair your piercing with other matching or contrasting accessories. A lip ring, earrings, or necklaces that echo the design or color of your tongue jewelry can create a harmonized look.
Expressive Makeup: Use makeup to highlight your piercing. A bold lip color or shimmering lip gloss can draw more attention to your mouth area, making your piercing stand out.
Flavored Jewelry: Some jewelry brands offer flavored balls for tongue piercings. This can be a fun way to surprise someone close or just to enjoy a taste sensation throughout the day.
Social Media Showcase: Share your new looks, jewelry designs, or fun moments involving your piercing on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Pinterest. Engage with communities dedicated to body art and piercings.
Piercing Parties: Consider hosting or attending a piercing-themed party. It’s a fun way to celebrate your body art, share care tips, and even discover new jewelry designs.
Educate and Inspire: Use your experience to educate others considering the piercing. Share your journey, from the decision-making process to the healing stages and styling options, either through vlogging, blogging, or casual conversations.
Snake Eyes vs. Other Tongue Piercings
Tongue piercings are varied and vast, each with its unique flair. While snake eyes have their distinct allure, let’s see how they stand when compared to their tongue-piercing siblings.
Snake Eyes vs. Midline Piercing:
The classic midline piercing sits right in the middle of the tongue. While it’s more conventional, its vertical position contrasts with the horizontal orientation of snake eyes. Which do you think makes a bolder statement?
Snake Eyes vs. Frenulum Piercing:
We touched upon the frenulum piercing earlier. This under-the-tongue star is all about mystery, while snake eyes are more in-your-face. Depending on your personality, you might gravitate towards one over the other.
Eyes vs. Side Tongue Piercing:
Placed on one side of the tongue, this piercing is for those who love a touch of asymmetry. While snake eyes balance out the tongue’s appearance, a side tongue piercing adds an element of surprise.
FAQs
What are the risks of snake eyes piercing?
Snake eyes tongue piercing, located horizontally at the tip of the tongue, carries risks including:
Migration or rejection of the piercing.
Tooth chipping or damage.
Difficulty in speech and movement.
Increased risk of infections due to the dual puncture.
Gum erosion.
Why are snake eyes piercings illegal?
While not universally illegal, snake eyes piercings are often discouraged or not offered by many professional piercers because of the significant risks they pose. These risks, like migration, tooth damage, and gum erosion, can lead to long-term oral health issues.
How painful is snake eyes piercing?
The pain level for snake eyes piercing can vary among individuals, but many report it as being moderately painful. The pain is often described as a sharp pinch followed by a burning sensation. However, it’s essential to note that everyone’s pain tolerance is different.
Which tongue piercing is the safest?
Midline tongue piercings, positioned in the center of the tongue, are often considered the safest. This is because they pose fewer risks for tooth and gum damage compared to other tongue piercings.
How much does snake eyes tongue piercing cost?
The cost of snake eyes tongue piercing depends on the location and reputation of the piercing studio, the experience and skill of the piercer, and the quality and material of the jewelry. The average price range is $60 to $100 for the piercing fee, plus $10 to $30 for the jewelry.
Can I get snake eyes tongue piercing if I have a short or thick tongue?
Snake eyes tongue piercing requires certain tongue anatomy to be done safely and successfully. Your tongue should be long enough to accommodate the jewelry without causing discomfort or damage. Your tongue should also be thin enough to allow the needle to pass through without hitting any blood vessels or nerves. Your piercer will examine your tongue and determine if you are a suitable candidate for this piercing.
Can I eat or drink normally after getting snake eyes pierced?
You should avoid eating or drinking anything for at least an hour after getting snake eyes pierced, as your tongue will be swollen and sore. After that, you can eat or drink soft, bland, and cold foods and drinks for the first week, such as ice cream, yogurt, soup, smoothies, or water.
Final Words
Snake eyes tongue piercing is a bold and unique way to express your personality and style. It can give you a cool and edgy look that stands out from the crowd. However, it also comes with some challenges and risks that you should be aware of before getting this piercing. You should make sure that you choose a qualified and experienced piercer who can perform the procedure safely and professionally. You also need to follow the aftercare and watch out for any problems with your piercing.
If you take care of your piercing, you can have fun with it for a long time. We hope this guide has helped you with snake eyes tongue piercing.
If you have more questions or feedback, please share them with us below. Thanks for reading!
Camila Luna is a passionate jewelry enthusiast and content creator at Miami Jewelry Co. With a focus on providing high-quality, Miami-style jewelry, Camila and her team specialize in a wide range of jewelry that includes bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and more
