Ashley piercing is one of the fashion trends that many people have embraced. Over time, piercing has always been a thing and Ashley Piercing just adds to the beauty of the trend.
So, here is all you need to know about this cute fashion trend.
What is Ashley Piercing?
In the realm of body modifications, piercings have long been a popular form of self-expression. From earlobe piercings to nose rings, individuals embrace these adornments as a way to showcase their style. One intriguing lip piercing that has gained attention in recent years is the Ashley Piercing.
The Ashley Piercing, also referred to as an inverse vertical labret piercing, is a distinctive lip piercing that involves a vertical placement of jewellery through the lower lip, exiting through the centre of the upper lip. Unlike traditional lip piercings that penetrate the exterior of the lip, the Ashley Piercing creates a striking and unconventional look.
The Ashley Piercing owes its name to Ashley, a body modification enthusiast who reportedly popularised this unique style. The piercing gained attention on social media platforms and quickly became a trend among those seeking a bold and edgy aesthetic.
Before considering an Ashley Piercing, it is crucial to consult with a professional piercer who can assess your suitability for the piercing. The procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Sterilisation: The piercer will sanitise the area around the lips and use sterile equipment to minimise the risk of infection.
- Marking the placement: The piercer will mark the entry and exit points on the lower and upper lips to ensure precise alignment.
- Piercing: Using a hollow needle, the piercer will create a vertical hole, starting from the inside of the lower lip and exiting through the centre of the upper lip.
- Jewellery insertion: Once the piercing is complete, a straight barbell or another suitable jewellery piece will be inserted through the two holes.
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Proper aftercare is crucial to promote healing and prevent complications. The piercer will provide specific instructions, which may include:
- Cleaning: Rinse the piercing with a saline solution or a saltwater mixture to keep it clean and minimise the risk of infection.
- Avoiding irritants: Refrain from using harsh mouthwashes, smoking or consuming spicy or acidic foods as they can irritate the piercing.
- Oral hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth gently and using an alcohol-free mouthwash.
- Be mindful of jewellery: Avoid playing with the jewellery or changing it too soon, as it may disrupt the healing process.
What sets the Ashley Piercing apart is its striking visual impact. The vertical alignment creates a visually captivating look that can be customised with various jewellery options, such as studs, barbells or captive bead rings. This piercing has the potential to add an edgy and unique flair to one’s overall appearance.
Ashley Piercing pros and cons
Here are the pros and cons of the Ashley Piercing, which helps you to make an informed decision if you are considering this striking lip piercing:
Pros of Ashley Piercing
- Unique aesthetic appeal: The Ashley Piercing creates a visually captivating and unique look due to its vertical alignment. It offers a distinctive form of self-expression, allowing individuals to showcase their individuality and style.
- Versatile jewellery options: One of the advantages of Ashley Piercing is the wide range of jewellery options available. From straight barbells to captive bead rings and studs, you can choose jewellery that suits your taste and create different looks with ease.
- Facial symmetry enhancement: For some individuals, the Ashley Piercing can help balance facial features and enhance facial symmetry. It can draw attention to the centre of the face and create a visually appealing focal point.
- Minimal impact on speech and eating: Unlike certain oral piercings that may interfere with speech or eating, the Ashley Piercing typically has minimal impact on these activities. The jewellery sits vertically, avoiding potential contact with the teeth or gums.
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Cons of Ashley Piercing:
- Risk of infection and healing issues: As with any piercing, there is a risk of infection and healing complications with the Ashley Piercing. The mouth is home to numerous bacteria, making proper aftercare and hygiene crucial to minimise these risks.
- Potential discomfort and swelling: The initial piercing process may cause discomfort and swelling, which can last for several days. It is important to be prepared for this temporary discomfort and follow proper aftercare measures to promote healing.
- Oral health considerations: The presence of an Ashley Piercing may require extra care when it comes to oral hygiene. It is essential to maintain good oral health practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and using an alcohol-free mouthwash, to prevent potential complications.
- Individual suitability: Not everyone’s anatomy is suitable for an Ashley Piercing. The placement and anatomy of the lips vary from person to person, and it is crucial to consult with a professional piercer to determine if this type of piercing is appropriate for you.
Ashley Piercing healing time
Initial healing stage
After getting an Ashley Piercing, your body will initiate the healing process. During the first few weeks, it is normal to experience some swelling, tenderness and mild discomfort.
The initial healing stage typically lasts around four to eight weeks, but individual factors such as healing ability, aftercare practices and overall health can influence the duration.
To ensure proper healing, it is crucial to follow a strict aftercare routine. Here are some essential aftercare guidelines for an Ashley Piercing:
1. Cleanliness is key
Maintain proper oral hygiene by rinsing your mouth with a saline solution or an alcohol-free mouthwash after meals and before bed. Avoid using products containing alcohol or harsh chemicals, as they can irritate the piercing.
2. Gentle cleaning
Gently clean the piercing area twice a day using a saline solution or a mild, non-alcoholic, fragrance-free soap. Cleanse the jewellery and the surrounding skin, removing any debris or crusted discharge.
3. Avoid oral contact
Refrain from touching the piercing with unwashed hands or engaging in activities that could introduce bacteria to the piercing site, such as oral contact, playing with jewellery or smoking.
4. Be mindful of what you consume
During the healing period, avoid consuming hot, spicy, or acidic foods and beverages, as they can irritate the piercing. Opt for softer, easy-to-eat foods to minimise discomfort.
Healing Time
The complete healing time for an Ashley Piercing can range from eight to twelve weeks or longer, according to Brydie. However, it is important to note that healing is a gradual process and individual experiences may vary. Factors such as your body’s healing ability, aftercare diligence and lifestyle choices can impact the overall healing time.
As the healing progresses, you should notice improvements in the appearance and comfort of the piercing. The swelling and tenderness will gradually subside, and the piercing site will begin to look more settled and less inflamed. It is important to be patient and avoid changing or removing the jewellery prematurely, as this can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
If you have any concerns or questions about the healing process, it is advisable to consult a professional piercer or a healthcare professional experienced in body modifications. They can assess the healing progress, provide guidance and address any issues that may arise.
Ashley Piercing Jewellery
After getting an Ashley Piercing, choosing the right jewellery is crucial to the healing process and overall comfort.
Different types of jewellery are suitable for an Ashley Piercing. They include:
- Labret studs: Labret studs are the most common type of jewellery used for Ashley Piercings. They consist of a straight bar with a flat disc on one end and a ball or gemstone on the other. The flat disc rests inside the mouth while the ball or gemstone sits on the outside.
- Circular barbells: Circular barbells are another popular option for Ashley Piercings. They have a horseshoe shape, with a ball or gemstone on each end. The circular shape is designed to reduce the pressure on the piercing and allow for a faster healing process.
- Captive bead rings: Captive bead rings are a popular choice for many piercings, including Ashley Piercings. They consist of a ring with a removable ball or bead that snaps into place, holding the ring in position.
- Seamless rings: Seamless rings are a more recent addition to the jewellery options for Ashley piercings. They are made of a continuous piece of metal and do not have any visible seams or joints.
When choosing Ashley piercing jewellery, here are factors to consider:
- Size: It is essential to choose the right size of jewellery for your Ashley piercing. The size of the jewellery will depend on the thickness of your lower lip and the length of the bar. It is best to consult with your piercer to ensure that you get the right size of the jewellery.
- Material: The material of the jewellery can also affect the healing process. It is best to choose jewellery made of hypoallergenic materials like surgical steel, titanium, or gold. Avoid jewellery made of nickel or other reactive metals that can irritate.
- Style: Ashley Piercing jewellery comes in different styles such as plain, jewelled or spiked. Choose a style that suits your personality and taste.
Comfort: It is important to choose jewellery that is comfortable to wear. Avoid jewellery that is too heavy or too tight, as it can cause discomfort and slow down the healing process.
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