Snake Bites Piercing in Nairobi, Kenya
The snake bite piercing is distinguished by its dramatic appearance; two sizable piercings are seen just below your bottom lip. The name of the piercing is derived from the appearance it gives you: as if you have the fangs of a snake, or as if a snake bit you right there!
The piercing procedure is quite simple, however keep in mind that you must do it twice! The outer skin is first cleaned and labeled to ensure proper fitment. The skin is clamped or held taut, and the lip is dragged down and away from the rest of the mouth until you are convinced the markings are exactly where you want your snake bite piercings to go. The clamps are then released, the jewelry is inserted into the opening, and a cannula needle is inserted from the exterior lip to the inside. Then, repeat the entire process.
Snake Bites Piercings
Considerations Before Getting a Snake Bites Piercing
Before deciding to get snake bites piercings, there are several important factors to consider to ensure a smooth process and successful healing. Here are the key considerations:
- Health and Medical Conditions
– General Health: Ensure you are in good health. Chronic conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can affect healing.
– Allergies: Identify any metal allergies you might have. Choose hypoallergenic materials like titanium or niobium if you have sensitivities.
– Medications: Inform our piercer if you are taking any medications, especially blood thinners, which can increase bleeding. - Professional Piercer Selection
– Research: Choose a reputable piercer with experience in lip piercings. Look for professional certifications and read reviews.
– Consultation: Schedule a consultation to discuss the procedure, aftercare, and any questions you have. Ensure you feel comfortable with the piercer. - Pain and Healing
– Pain Tolerance: Understand that pain levels vary. Snake bites piercings are generally described as a sharp pinch followed by some throbbing.
– Healing Time: Expect 6-8 weeks for initial healing, with up to 3 months for complete healing. Consider your lifestyle and any upcoming events during this period. - Aftercare Commitment
– Daily Cleaning: You will need to clean the piercings twice daily with a saline solution or a recommended aftercare product.
– Oral Hygiene: Rinse your mouth after eating, drinking, or smoking. Avoid touching the piercings with unclean hands.
– Dietary Restrictions: Be prepared to avoid spicy, acidic, and overly hot foods and beverages that can irritate the piercings. - Potential Risks and Complications
– Infection: Proper aftercare minimizes this risk, but you need to monitor for signs such as excessive redness, swelling, or pus.
– Swelling and Bruising: Some swelling and bruising are normal initially. Cold compresses can help manage this.
– Teeth and Gum Damage: Constant contact with the jewelry can damage teeth or gums. Ensure proper fitting and be mindful of any changes in oral health.
– Scarring: There is a possibility of scarring, especially if you decide to remove the piercings. - Lifestyle and Work
– Professional Environment: Consider your workplace dress code and policies regarding visible piercings.
– Activities: High-contact sports or activities may increase the risk of injury to the piercings. Plan accordingly. - Financial Considerations
– Cost: Factor in the cost of the piercings, which includes the procedure, initial jewelry, and aftercare products.
– Maintenance: Consider ongoing costs for replacing jewelry and potential additional care products. - Personal Motivation
– Reasoning: Reflect on why you want the piercings. Ensure it’s a well-considered decision and not impulsive.
– Support System: Discuss your decision with friends or family who can provide support and advice.
Pain and Healing of Snake Bites Piercing
Understanding the pain and healing process of snake bites piercings is crucial for anyone considering this type of body modification. Here is a detailed guide on what to expect:
Pain
- Pain Level
– Initial Piercing: Most individuals describe the pain during the piercing process as a sharp, brief pinch followed by a throbbing sensation. The pain level varies depending on individual pain tolerance but is generally moderate.
– Post-Piercing: After the initial piercing, some swelling, soreness, and tenderness around the piercing sites are normal. This discomfort usually subsides within a few days.
Factors Influencing Pain
- Individual Pain Tolerance: Everyone has a different threshold for pain, so experiences can vary.
- Piercer’s Skill: A skilled and experienced piercer can make the process quicker and less painful.
- Mental Preparation: Being mentally prepared and relaxed can help reduce the perception of pain.
Healing Process
Healing Stages
- Initial Healing (First Few Days)
– Swelling and Redness: Expect some swelling and redness around the piercings. This is a normal response to the trauma.
– Discomfort: The area may feel tender, and you might experience minor bleeding or oozing of clear fluid. - Intermediate Healing (Weeks 1-4)
– Formation of Fistula: The body starts forming a tunnel (fistula) around the jewelry, which is crucial for proper healing.
– Reduced Swelling: Swelling and redness should decrease gradually. If it persists or worsens, consult your piercer or a healthcare professional.
– Itching and Minor Crusting: Itching is common as the piercing heals, and you might notice minor crusting around the jewelry. Do not pick at the crust; clean gently. - Final Healing (Weeks 4-8 and Beyond)
– Complete Healing: The piercings will continue to strengthen and become more stable. Full healing can take up to 3 months.
– Normal Appearance: By this stage, the piercings should look and feel normal with no pain or discomfort.
Factors Affecting Healing
- Aftercare Routine: Adhering to a strict aftercare routine is crucial for preventing infections and promoting healing.
- Lifestyle and Habits: Avoid smoking, alcohol, and foods that can irritate the piercings. Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Overall Health: Your general health and immune system efficiency play significant roles in how quickly you heal.
Snake Bites Piercings Aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential for ensuring your snake bites piercings heal well and to prevent complications such as infections or scarring. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your new piercings:
Cleaning Routine
- Saline Solution Soaks
– Frequency: Clean your piercings twice daily, once in the morning and once before bed.
– How to Prepare: Use a pre-made sterile saline solution or make your own by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt with 8 ounces of warm distilled water.
– Application: Soak a clean cotton ball or gauze pad in the saline solution and gently press it against each piercing for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can use a spray saline solution directly on the piercings. - Oral Rinses
– Frequency: Rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free, antiseptic mouthwash or saline solution after eating, drinking, or smoking.
– How to Prepare: For a homemade rinse, dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in 8 ounces of warm distilled water.
– Application: Swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds, ensuring it reaches all areas.
General Aftercare Tips
- Avoid Touching
– Hands Off: Do not touch or twist your jewelry with unclean hands. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching the piercings. - Avoid Irritants
– Food and Drink: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or overly hot foods and beverages during the initial healing period. These can irritate the piercings.
– Products: Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or any harsh chemicals on the piercings. - Oral Hygiene
– Brushing: Brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the piercings.
– Flossing: Floss regularly to maintain good oral hygiene. - Jewelry Care
– Check Tightness: Ensure your jewelry is secure but not too tight. Check the balls or ends regularly to make sure they are screwed on tightly.
– Avoid Changing Jewelry Early: Do not change your jewelry until the piercings are fully healed, usually around 8-12 weeks.
Monitoring and Managing Healing
- Normal Healing Signs
– Swelling and Redness: Some swelling and redness are normal during the first few days.
– Discharge: Clear or slightly whitish discharge is normal as your body heals. - Warning Signs of Complications
– Infection: Symptoms include persistent redness, swelling, excessive pain, and yellow or green pus. If you suspect an infection, consult your piercer or a healthcare professional.
– Rejection or Migration: Signs include the jewelry moving from its original position or the skin becoming thin over the jewelry. - Swelling Management
– Cold Compresses: Apply a clean, cold compress to the outside of the piercing area to reduce swelling.
– Elevate Head: Sleep with your head elevated to reduce overnight swelling.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Avoid Trauma
– No Playing with Jewelry: Avoid fiddling with the jewelry or putting pressure on the piercings.
– Protect During Activities: Be cautious during physical activities or contact sports. Consider using a mouthguard if necessary. - Avoid Oral Contact
– No Kissing or Oral Sex: Avoid activities that involve contact with the mouth area during the initial healing period.
Long-term Care
- Regular Cleaning
– Maintain a Routine: Even after the initial healing period, continue to clean your piercings regularly to prevent buildup of bacteria and debris. - Jewelry Changes
– Professional Help: When changing jewelry for the first time, consider having it done by your piercer to avoid complications.
– Quality Jewelry: Always use high-quality jewelry made of biocompatible materials to minimize irritation and allergic reactions.
By adhering to these aftercare guidelines, you can ensure that your snake bites piercings heal properly and remain healthy. If you have any concerns or questions during the healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your professional piercer for advice and support.
Snake Bites Piercings Jewelry
Choosing the right jewelry for your snake bites piercings is crucial for both aesthetic appeal and successful healing. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions about your jewelry options:
Initial Jewelry Options
- Labret Studs: A labret stud consists of a flat disc on one end and a removable ball or decorative end on the other. Opt for hypoallergenic materials such as titanium, surgical steel, or biocompatible plastics (PTFE/BioFlex).
– Why It’s Suitable: The flat back of the labret stud reduces irritation to the gums and teeth during the healing process. - Hoops/Rings: Captive bead rings or seamless hoops can be used but are generally recommended after the initial healing period. Choose high-quality materials like titanium or niobium to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. Hoops allow more movement, which can increase the risk of irritation and longer healing times, so they are less commonly recommended for initial piercings.
Jewelry Materials
- Titanium
– Pros: Hypoallergenic, lightweight, and strong. Ideal for individuals with metal sensitivities.
– Cons: More expensive than surgical steel. - Surgical Steel
– Pros: Durable, affordable, and commonly used for body jewelry.
– Cons: May contain trace amounts of nickel, which can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. - Niobium
– Pros: Hypoallergenic, flexible, and available in various colors.
– Cons: Less widely available and slightly more expensive than surgical steel. - Biocompatible Plastics (PTFE/BioFlex)
– Pros: Flexible, hypoallergenic, and comfortable. Ideal for those with metal allergies.
– Cons: Less durable than metal options.
Jewelry Sizes
- Gauge (Thickness)
– Standard Size: 16 gauge (1.2mm) is the most common thickness for snake bites piercings.
– Consideration: Ensure the gauge size recommended by your piercer matches your initial jewelry to avoid unnecessary stretching or irritation. - Length/Diameter
– Initial Jewelry: Typically, longer studs (8-12mm) are used initially to accommodate swelling.
– After Healing: Once healed, you can switch to shorter studs or appropriate-sized hoops. Consult your piercer for the best fit.
Aftercare for Jewelry
- Regular Cleaning
– Frequency: Clean your jewelry daily during the healing period with a saline solution or a recommended aftercare product.
– Method: Remove debris or crusting around the jewelry gently without removing the jewelry itself. - Avoiding Irritation
– No Twisting or Turning: Avoid twisting or turning the jewelry excessively as this can cause irritation and delay healing.
– Check for Tightness: Ensure that the ends of the jewelry are securely fastened but not overly tight. - Switching Jewelry
– Timing: Only change your jewelry after the piercings are fully healed, typically after 8-12 weeks.
– Professional Assistance: Consider having the first jewelry change done by your piercer to minimize the risk of complications.
Aesthetic Options
- Decorative Ends
– Styles: Choose from a variety of decorative ends such as gems, spikes, or flat discs.
– Customization: Many options are available for expressing personal style while maintaining comfort and safety. - Colors and Finishes
– Anodized Titanium/Niobium: Available in a range of colors through anodization, providing a unique look without compromising material safety.
– Polished vs. Matte: Choose a polished finish for a classic look or a matte finish for a more understated appearance. - Hoops and Rings
– Captive Bead Rings: Feature a removable bead that holds the ring closed, available in various designs and materials.
– Seamless/Segment Rings: Provide a continuous loop with minimal visual interruption, ideal for a sleek look.
By selecting the right jewelry and following proper aftercare guidelines, you can ensure both the aesthetic and health aspects of your snake bites piercings are well taken care of. Always consult with your professional piercer for personalized recommendations and advice.
Cost of a Snake Bites Piercings
The cost of a Snake Bites Piercing can vary widely based on several factors including the location of the piercing studio, the experience of the piercer, and the type of jewelry chosen. Here’s a breakdown of what you can generally expect:
- Piercing Procedure
– Base Cost: This cost includes the sterile setup, the actual piercing, and sometimes a basic set of jewelry.
– Geographic Location: Prices can be higher in metropolitan areas or regions with a higher cost of living. Rebel Inks Tattoos, Tattoo Removal, and Body Piercings Parlour is located in the heart of the Central Business Disrict (CBD) in Nairobi, Kenya, and is easily accessible to both locals and foreigners in the country - Jewelry
Initial Jewelry: The cost of the initial jewelry is often included in the base price, but this can vary. Basic surgical steel labret studs are usually part of the initial cost. However, if you opt for higher-end materials such as titanium or jewelry with gemstones, the price can increase.
→Surgical Steel
→Titanium
→Gold,depending on the purity and design.
→Gemstones/Decorative Ends - Aftercare Products
– Saline Solution
– Antiseptic Mouthwash
– Additional Aftercare Products: Depending on recommendations, you might also purchase healing balms or sprays, which can add another amount - Additional Costs
– Consultation Fee: Some high-end studios charge a consultation, though this is often included in the piercing cost.
Factors Influencing the Cost
- Piercer’s Experience: More experienced and reputable piercers may charge higher rates.
- Studio Quality: High-end studios with better hygiene standards and facilities will generally cost more.
- Jewelry Upgrades: Choosing premium jewelry materials or decorative elements will increase the overall cost.
- Location: As mentioned, urban centers and high-cost areas typically have higher prices.
The cost of Princess Snake Bites Piercings can range significantly based on various factors. It’s always best to consult with your chosen piercing studio for a detailed quote. Investing in a reputable piercer and high-quality jewelry is crucial for ensuring a safe and satisfactory piercing experience.
Possible side effects of Snake Bites Piercings
While snake bites piercings can be an exciting and stylish form of self-expression, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and complications that can arise. Here’s a detailed overview:
Immediate Side Effects
- Pain and Swelling
– Pain: Expect moderate pain during the piercing procedure and some tenderness for a few days afterward.
– Swelling: Swelling is a natural response and usually subsides within a few days. Cold compresses can help manage this. - Bleeding: Minor bleeding is common immediately after the piercing. This should stop within a few hours to a day.
- Bruising: Some bruising around the pierced area can occur due to trauma to the tissue.
Short-term Side Effects
- Infection
– Symptoms: Redness, warmth, pus, and severe pain can indicate an infection.
– Prevention: Strict adherence to aftercare instructions and maintaining good hygiene can help prevent infections. If you suspect an infection, seek medical advice promptly. - Discomfort While Eating and Speaking: Initial discomfort when eating, drinking, and speaking is common as your mouth adjusts to the new jewelry.
- Excessive Salivation: Increased salivation can occur as your body adjusts to the piercings.
Long-term Side Effects
- Gum and Tooth Damage
– Gum Recession: Constant friction between the jewelry and your gums can cause gum recession, potentially leading to periodontal disease.
– Tooth Erosion: Jewelry can chip or erode tooth enamel over time, particularly if you have metal jewelry. - Scarring
– Hypertrophic Scarring: Raised scars can form around the piercing site.
– Keloids: In some individuals, keloids (large, raised scars) can develop, particularly if there is a genetic predisposition. - Migration and Rejection
– Migration: The piercing can move from its original placement due to the body’s attempt to push out the foreign object.
– Rejection: In severe cases, the body might reject the piercing entirely, pushing the jewelry out completely. - Allergic Reactions
– Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to certain metals used in jewelry, such as nickel.
– Symptoms: Itching, redness, and swelling beyond the normal healing period can indicate an allergic reaction.
– Prevention: Using hypoallergenic materials like titanium or niobium can reduce the risk. - Speech and Dental Issues: Over time, snake bites piercing can affect your speech, particularly if the jewelry is large or constantly in contact with your teeth and gums.
Rare but Serious Complications
- Bloodborne Infections: If proper sterilization techniques are not used, there’s a risk of transmitting infections like hepatitis or HIV.
- Nerve Damage: Improper piercing techniques can damage nerves, leading to numbness or loss of sensation in the pierced area.
- Abscess Formation: Infected piercings can sometimes form abscesses, which are pockets of pus that require medical intervention.
Preventative Measures
- Choose a Professional Piercer: Ensure your piercer is experienced, follows stringent hygiene practices, and uses sterilized equipment.
- Follow Aftercare Instructions: Adhering to the recommended aftercare routine is critical for preventing infections and promoting healing.
- Use High-Quality Jewelry: Invest in high-quality, hypoallergenic jewelry to minimize the risk of allergic reactions and other complications.
- Monitor Your Piercings: Regularly check for signs of infection, jewelry tightness, and any changes in the piercing site.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, and rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free antiseptic mouthwash after meals.
- Avoid Trauma to the Piercings: Be careful when eating, drinking, and speaking to avoid hitting or tugging on the jewelry.
By being aware of these potential side effects and taking appropriate preventive measures, you can reduce the risks associated with snake bites piercings and enjoy a smooth healing process. If any issues arise, consult with your piercer or a healthcare professional promptly.
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