Lip piercings are more than just jewelry; they’re a form of self-expression. The name of a lip piercing often tells a story about its placement, aesthetic, cultural influence, or the vibe it creates. Some names sound elegant and subtle, while others feel bold, rebellious, edgy, or alternative.
If you’re planning your first piercing, comparing styles, creating body-art content, or simply curious about the terminology, understanding lip piercing names can help you find a look that matches your personality and aesthetic.
From classic labret piercings to dramatic snake bites and angel bites, each style carries its own visual identity and social impression.
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Lip piercing names refer to different piercing placements around the lips and mouth area. Popular lip piercing names include Labret, Monroe, Madonna, Medusa, Snake Bites, Angel Bites, Dolphin Bites, Spider Bites, Cyber Bites, and Vertical Labret. Each name describes a specific location, combination, or aesthetic style.
Lip Piercing Names Overview
Many people use the terms lip piercing and lip ring interchangeably, but they are not the same. A lip piercing refers to the location of the piercing, while a lip ring describes the jewelry worn in it. During the initial healing period, professional piercers usually recommend a flat-back labret stud because it minimizes irritation and swelling. After healing, many piercings can be changed to a seamless hoop, captive bead ring, clicker ring, or decorative circular jewelry depending on the piercing style and anatomy.
| Piercing Name | Placement | Style Vibe |
| Labret | Below center lip | Classic |
| Vertical Labret | Through lower lip | Modern |
| Monroe | Upper left lip | Glamorous |
| Madonna | Upper right lip | Elegant |
| Medusa | Center upper lip | Balanced |
| Snake Bites | Both lower sides | Alternative |
| Angel Bites | Upper lip pair | Edgy |
| Dolphin Bites | Center lower pair | Symmetrical |
| Spider Bites | Close side pair | Subtle punk |
| Cyber Bites | Medusa + Labret | Futuristic |
What Are the Different Lip Piercing Names?
Lip piercings are named according to their placement around the lips and the type of jewelry commonly worn. Common lip piercing names include the labret, side labret, vertical labret, Ashley, Monroe, Medusa, Jestrum, snake bites, angel bites, dolphin bites, and cyber bites. Some styles sit directly through the lip, while others are positioned above, below, or beside the mouth. Knowing the placement and name of each style makes it easier to choose the right piercing and jewelry.
Most Popular Lip Piercing Names
These are the lip piercing styles most people encounter when researching facial piercings.
Labret
The labret sits below the center of the lower lip and remains one of the most timeless facial piercings.
Vibe: Minimalist, versatile, confident.
Vertical Labret
A piercing that passes vertically through the lower lip, showing both ends of the jewelry.
Vibe: Modern, bold, fashion-forward.
Monroe
Placed above the upper lip on the left side, inspired by the iconic beauty mark associated with Marilyn Monroe.
Vibe: Vintage glamour, feminine elegance.
Madonna
Located above the upper lip on the right side.
Vibe: Sophisticated, stylish, celebrity-inspired.
Medusa
Positioned in the philtrum, directly above the center of the upper lip.
Vibe: Symmetrical, refined, contemporary.
Lip Piercing Names Chart
If you’re trying to identify a specific lip piercing, this quick chart makes it easier to understand the most common names and where each piercing is placed. While some styles use studs, others are better suited for hoops or rings after the piercing has fully healed.
| Lip Piercing Name | Placement | Common Jewelry |
|---|---|---|
| Labret | Center below the lower lip | Labret stud, hoop |
| Vertical Labret | Through the center of the lower lip | Curved barbell |
| Ashley | Through the center of the lower lip with one visible end | Labret stud |
| Monroe | Upper left side above the lip | Labret stud |
| Madonna | Upper right side above the lip | Labret stud |
| Medusa (Philtrum) | Center above the upper lip | Labret stud |
| Jestrum | Vertical version of the Medusa | Curved barbell |
| Snake Bites | One piercing on each side of the lower lip | Studs or hoops |
| Spider Bites | Two close piercings on one side | Studs or hoops |
| Dolphin Bites | Two piercings below the center of the lower lip | Studs |
| Angel Bites | Two upper lip piercings | Labret studs |
| Cyber Bites | Medusa paired with a Labret | Studs |
| Canine Bites | Angel Bites combined with Snake Bites | Studs or hoops |
| Dahlia Bites | Corners of the mouth | Labret studs |
| Shark Bites | Four lower lip piercings (two per side) | Studs or hoops |
Lip Piercing Names Chart
| Lip Piercing | Placement | Common Jewelry |
|---|---|---|
| Labret | Center of the lower lip | Labret stud or ring |
| Side Labret | One side of the lower lip | Stud or hoop |
| Vertical Labret | Through the lower lip vertically | Curved barbell |
| Ashley | Center of the lower lip | Flat-back labret |
| Medusa | Center above the upper lip | Labret stud |
| Monroe | One side above the upper lip | Labret stud |
| Madonna | Opposite side above the upper lip | Labret stud |
| Jestrum | Center of the upper lip | Curved barbell |
| Snake Bites | Two piercings on opposite sides of the lower lip | Studs or hoops |
| Angel Bites | Two piercings above the upper lip | Studs |
| Dolphin Bites | Two close piercings below the center of the lower lip | Studs |
| Cyber Bites | One upper and one lower center piercing | Labret-style jewelry |
| Dahlia | Near the corners of the mouth | Labret studs |
Lip Piercing Names and Pictures: How to Identify Each Style
When looking at lip piercing pictures, focus first on the piercing’s location rather than the jewelry shape. A side lip piercing is generally positioned to the left or right of the lower lip and is commonly called a side labret. A center lower-lip piercing is typically a labret, while a vertical placement through the lower lip is known as a vertical labret. Piercings above the upper lip include styles such as the Monroe, Madonna, and Medusa. Two symmetrical piercings can form recognizable paired styles such as snake bites or angel bites. Jewelry can change the appearance significantly, so the same piercing may look like a stud, ring, or hoop depending on the jewelry selected.
Side Lip Piercing Names
A piercing on the side of the lower lip is most commonly called a side labret or side lip piercing. It can be placed on either side of the mouth and may be worn with a flat-back labret stud, circular barbell, or hoop once the piercing is suitable for that jewelry. When two side lip piercings are placed symmetrically on the lower lip, the combination is commonly known as snake bites.
Lip Piercing Names by Aesthetic Style
People rarely choose a piercing based only on placement. Most choose based on the energy and aesthetic they want to project.
Minimalist Aesthetic
- Labret
- Side Labret
- Monroe
- Madonna
- Medusa
These styles feel clean, polished, and wearable in both casual and professional settings.
Alternative Aesthetic
- Snake Bites
- Spider Bites
- Shark Bites
- Cyber Bites
- Dolphin Bites
Popular within punk, alternative, and emo-inspired fashion communities.
Gothic Aesthetic
- Angel Bites
- Snake Bites
- Vertical Labret
- Dahlia Piercings
- Shark Bites
These placements pair naturally with darker fashion, dramatic makeup, and gothic aesthetics.
Modern Luxury Aesthetic
- Medusa
- Monroe
- Madonna
- Vertical Philtrum
- Vertical Labret
Frequently featured in contemporary beauty and fashion photography.
Lip Piercing Names for Rings and Hoops
A lip piercing’s name usually refers to its placement rather than whether it uses a ring or stud. A labret piercing, for example, can be styled with a flat-back stud or, when appropriate for the anatomy and healed piercing, a ring or hoop. Side labrets are especially associated with hoop-style jewelry, while paired styles such as snake bites can also be worn with matching rings. Jewelry choice should be based on the piercing’s anatomy, healing stage, and advice from a qualified professional piercer rather than appearance alone.
Single Lip Piercing Names
Side lip piercings are among the most popular facial piercings because they can create either a subtle or bold look depending on the jewelry chosen. Several well-known lip piercing names fall into this category:
- Monroe: Located above the upper left lip, inspired by Marilyn Monroe’s beauty mark.
- Madonna: Positioned above the upper right lip.
- Side Labret: Placed below the lower lip on either the left or right side.
- Spider Bites: Two closely spaced piercings on one side of the lower lip.
- Snake Bites: One piercing on each side of the lower lip, creating a symmetrical appearance.
- Shark Bites: Two piercings on each side of the lower lip for a total of four.
- Dahlia Bites: Located at the corners of the mouth rather than directly through the lip.
The choice between these styles usually depends on facial anatomy, desired symmetry, and whether you prefer studs, hoops, or a combination of both.
Popular Single Placements
- Labret
- Vertical Labret
- Monroe
- Madonna
- Medusa
- Jestrum
- Side Labret
- Ashley
- Jestrum Vertical Philtrum
- Upper Labret
Why Single Piercings Stay Popular
Single lip piercings create a statement without overwhelming facial features. They work particularly well for first-time piercing enthusiasts.
Double Lip Piercing Names
A double lip piercing can refer to several combinations depending on where the two piercings are positioned. Snake bites are two lower-lip piercings placed on opposite sides, while angel bites are two upper-lip piercings positioned symmetrically. Two closely spaced lower-center piercings are often called dolphin bites, and a combination of an upper-center and lower-center piercing may be called cyber bites. Because terminology can vary between studios and communities, confirming the exact placement with a professional piercer is the best way to identify a specific double lip piercing.
Lip Piercing Names for Double Piercings
Double piercings create balance and visual symmetry.
Snake Bites
Two piercings positioned on opposite sides below the lower lip.
Social Impression: Rebellious, confident, alternative.
Angel Bites
Two piercings above the upper lip.
Social Impression: Dramatic, distinctive, expressive.
Dolphin Bites
Two piercings placed closely together beneath the center of the lower lip.
Social Impression: Balanced, modern, artistic.
Spider Bites
Two closely placed piercings on one side of the lower lip.
Social Impression: Subtle alternative style.
Cyber Bites
A Medusa combined with a Labret.
Social Impression: Futuristic and symmetrical.
Multiple Lip Piercing Names
For those seeking a bold and highly customized look.
Shark Bites
Four piercings arranged as double snake bites.
Vibe: Extreme alternative aesthetic.
Canine Bites
Upper and lower paired piercings creating a fang-like appearance.
Vibe: Dramatic, edgy, attention-grabbing.
Dahlia Bites
Placed near the corners of the mouth.
Vibe: Unique, unconventional, artistic.
Dolphin Bites Plus Medusa
A modern variation that creates a highly symmetrical appearance.
Vibe: Contemporary body-art aesthetic.
Lip Piercing Names with Fangs Style
The term fangs is commonly used to describe lip piercings that create the appearance of vampire fangs rather than referring to a single official piercing name. The most popular fang-inspired styles include:
- Angel Fangs: Two vertical piercings through the upper lip using curved barbells, with both ends visible to resemble fangs.
- Cyber Bites: A Medusa paired with a Labret for a centered, balanced look.
- Canine Bites: A combination of Angel Bites and Snake Bites, resulting in four piercings that create a dramatic appearance.
- Vertical Labret: Although not technically a fang piercing, decorative spikes on the jewelry can create a fang-like effect.
These styles often require precise placement and should only be performed by an experienced professional to ensure proper alignment and healing.
Lip Piercing Names and Their Visual Personality
| Piercing | Personality Impression |
| Monroe | Glamorous |
| Madonna | Refined |
| Medusa | Balanced |
| Labret | Confident |
| Vertical Labret | Creative |
| Snake Bites | Rebellious |
| Angel Bites | Bold |
| Spider Bites | Alternative |
| Cyber Bites | Futuristic |
| Dahlia Bites | Artistic |
Many people choose a piercing based on how they want their personal style to be perceived rather than purely on placement.
Trending Lip Piercing Styles on Social Media
Platforms like TikTok, Pinterest, and Instagram have significantly influenced piercing trends.
Most Shared Styles
- Vertical Labret
- Medusa
- Monroe
- Snake Bites
- Angel Bites
- Cyber Bites
- Ashley Piercing
- Spider Bites
Current trends favor symmetrical placements, minimalist jewelry, and highly curated aesthetics that blend fashion with body art.
How to Choose the Right Lip Piercing
Consider Your Personal Style
Choose placements that match your daily aesthetic.
Think About Facial Symmetry
Some piercings highlight balance while others intentionally create asymmetry.
Consider Jewelry Options
Different placements allow rings, studs, curved barbells, or decorative jewelry.
Match the Energy You Want
- Elegant → Monroe, Madonna
- Minimalist → Labret
- Alternative → Snake Bites
- Gothic → Angel Bites
- Fashion-Forward → Medusa
- Artistic → Vertical Labret
The best piercing is one that feels authentic to your personality and style.
Relevant Categories
By Placement
- Upper Lip Piercings
- Lower Lip Piercings
- Center Lip Piercings
- Side Lip Piercings
By Style
- Minimalist Piercings
- Alternative Piercings
- Gothic Piercings
- Modern Fashion Piercings
By Complexity
- Single Piercings
- Double Piercings
- Multiple Piercings
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular lip piercing name?
The Labret remains one of the most recognized and widely chosen lip piercings worldwide.
What are the piercings on your lips called?
Lip piercings have different names based on their placement. Common examples include labret, side labret, vertical labret, Ashley, Medusa, Monroe, Madonna, Jestrum, snake bites, angel bites, dolphin bites, cyber bites, and Dahlia piercings.
What is a piercing on the side of your lip called?
A piercing positioned on one side of the lower lip is commonly called a side labret or side lip piercing. It may be worn with a stud or, after appropriate healing, a hoop or ring.
What are the different types of lip piercings?
Common types include labret, side labret, vertical labret, Ashley, Medusa, Monroe, Madonna, Jestrum, snake bites, angel bites, dolphin bites, cyber bites, and Dahlia piercings. Their names are primarily based on their location around the lips and mouth.
Is a lip piercing the same as a lip ring?
Not exactly. A lip piercing describes the pierced placement, while a lip ring describes a type of jewelry worn in a piercing. A labret or side lip piercing, for example, may be fitted with a ring or hoop depending on the piercing and its healing stage.
What is a double lip piercing called?
The name depends on the placement. Two lower-lip piercings on opposite sides are called snake bites, while two upper-lip piercings are known as angel bites. Two closely positioned lower-center piercings are commonly called dolphin bites.
Are lip piercing names different for men and women?
No. Lip piercing terminology is generally based on placement and style rather than gender. Men and women can choose the same lip piercing types, although individual anatomy may affect which placements are suitable.
Conclusion
Lip piercing names are more than technical labels they represent distinct aesthetics, personalities, and forms of self-expression. Some styles communicate elegance and sophistication, while others embrace creativity, rebellion, or alternative fashion.
if you’re drawn to the timeless simplicity of a Labret, the glamorous charm of a Monroe, the balance of a Medusa, or the edgy appeal of Snake Bites, understanding the names and identities behind these piercings makes choosing the right style much easier.
The best lip piercing is ultimately the one that reflects your personality, complements your features, and makes you feel confident every time you look in the mirror.
