Vertical Labret Aftercare

Vertical Labret Aftercare: Proper Healing for a Flawless Finish

A vertical labret piercing makes a bold, eye-catching statement. This unique lip piercing demands diligent aftercare for proper healing. The vertical labret passes through two areas: the bottom lip’s inner wet mouth area and the external dry skin. Caring for both regions correctly minimizes issues like infections, prolonged swelling, and unsightly scarring. Follow these vital aftercare steps to ensure a smooth journey to a stellar vertical labret.

Proper aftercare is crucial for a successful healing process after getting a vertical labret piercing. Keep the area clean by following the piercer’s instructions, and use saline solution to promote healing. Avoid touching the piercing with unclean hands and steer clear of oral contact, such as kissing, until the area is fully healed. Be mindful of what you eat to prevent irritation and infection.

Stay away from alcohol-based mouthwashes and ensure good oral hygiene. If any issues arise, seek professional assistance promptly. With the right aftercare, your vertical labret piercing can heal properly, allowing you to proudly show off your unique style.

The Initial Healing Period

The first few days after getting a new vertical labret prove the most critical. During this initial phase, the piercing channels through the inner lip and outer lip begin to form and close up. Proper cleaning routines and habits start the healing process off right.

Rinse the piercing site with warm salt water solution or a commercial piercing aftercare rinse after eating or drinking anything besides water. This removes any debris, dried fluids, or bacteria that could cause irritation or infection. Use a fresh cotton ball or gauze each time to avoid re-introducing germs.

Apply a warm saline compress to the swollen, tender piercing area for 5-10 minutes several times per day. The moist heat relieves discomfort and promotes fluid drainage from inflammation. Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain if needed, but avoid aspirin which can prolong bleeding.

Don’t touch, play with, rotate, or over-handle the new piercing. The fresh puncture channels require minimal disturbance for proper fistula formation and closing. Excessive movement can tear the healing tissue and introduce bacteria. Gently pat dry crusted areas with clean paper towels or gauze after rinsing – never rub or scrub a new piercing.

Long-Term Cleaning Routine

After the initial healing phase of several weeks, the vertical labret requires ongoing cleaning and care as fistula channels fully establish themselves over several months. Maintaining diligent hygiene habits ensures the piercing heals flawlessly. Use a fragrance-free antibacterial soap to thoroughly clean around both piercing openings daily.

Lather up the soap and gently roll the curved bar through the suds. This dislodges any crusted lymph fluid or other debris from around the piercing entry/exit points. Rinse thoroughly to wash away any residual soap which can dry out and irritate the healing area.

Pat the piercing dry with disposable paper towels or cloths – never reuse towels which can harbor bacteria. Apply a thin coat of sterile saline solution to the area. This keeps the fresh fistula happy, lubricated, and working towards completion.

If experiencing any issues like severe swelling, excessive pain, or warning signs like fever, see a qualified piercer immediately for evaluation and treatment if needed. Don’t hesitate to contact them with any concerns throughout the healing process.

Foods and Habits to Avoid

Certain foods and products can trigger irritation or negatively impact healing processes for vertical labrets. Making some temporary adjustments proves worthwhile to keep the piercing journey smooth.

Avoid consuming hot liquids like coffee, tea, or soup during the initial healing phase. The heat increases swelling and discomfort around the fresh puncture wounds. Similarly, steer clear of very cold foods and beverages which constrict blood flow and delay healing. Stick with room temperature or warm items to prevent irritation.

Spicy, salty, or acidic foods containing ingredients like hot sauce, citrus fruits, or tomatoes can burn and sting a new vertical labret piercing when coming in contact with the puncture sites. The same goes for alcohol and cigarette smoke – these drying agents cause irritation and slow cellular repair processes.

Throughout the entire healing period, avoid personal care products containing harsh chemicals near the mouth area. Ditch lip balms, lipsticks, or glosses temporarily until the piercing fully heals. Their waxes and fragrances further irritate sensitive fresh piercings. Use only gentle, fragrance-free products on the face and lip area if absolutely needed.

After initial swelling subsides, cautiously resume dental hygiene around the new vertical labret piercing. Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride-free, non-whitening toothpaste to avoid additional irritants around the healing puncture sites. Be very gentle when brushing around the curved bar and rinse thoroughly after.

Managing Jewelry Changes and Downsizing

Piercers initially use a longer curved barbell or circular captive ring to accommodate expected swelling in a new vertical labret piercing. However, these require downsizing to a more fitted snug labret ring after the initial healing phase completes.

Around the 6-8 week mark, visit a reputable piercer to inspect the vertical labret’s progress and downsize the jewelry if appropriate. Poorly fitted rings digging into the lip or hanging loosely increase risks for complications like rejection or trapped debris.

Meticulously sterilized tools and high-quality implant-grade materials promote seamless healing when switching to the final fitted labret jewelry. Piercers can select styles like captive bead rings or seamless circular barbells designed for long-term comfort and safety. Ask for assistance in measuring for the perfect snug but not overly tight fit.

Changing labret rings takes some getting used to as the piercing stabilizes. Go slowly and keep motions slow and gentle. If encountering difficulty, don’t force or jerk on a stuck piece – enlist a professional’s assistance to avoid tearing the fistula. Proper lubrication and downsizing on schedule prevents many stuck jewelry woes.

With thorough cleaning habits, lifestyle adjustments, and proper jewelry care, a vertical labret piercing heals flawlessly. The dramatic yet minimalist look accentuates lip shape and amplifies one’s unique look. A smooth healing journey ensures comfortable long-term wear to rock this bold lip piercing with confidence.