Eyebrow piercings have been a popular choice for body modification enthusiasts for decades. Among the various types of horizontal eyebrow piercings stand out for their unique and edgy appearance. This blog will explore everything you need about horizontal eyebrow piercings, from the procedure to healing, pain, and aftercare. We’ll also explore different jewellery options and answer frequently asked questions about this trendy piercing.
What is a Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing?
A horizontal eyebrow piercing is exactly what it sounds like—running horizontally across the eyebrow. Unlike the traditional vertical eyebrow piercing that goes through the brow’s ridge, the horizontal version typically sits above or below the eyebrow, depending on personal preference and anatomy.
This piercing is done with a small gauge needle, usually 16G to 18G, and can be placed anywhere along the eyebrow. The most common locations are near the outer end of the eyebrow, but some people put it closer to the middle. This piercing is considered surface-level, meaning it does not go through as much tissue as other types of piercings, sometimes resulting in a higher risk of rejection or migration.
Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing Jewelry
Choosing the right jewellery for your horizontal eyebrow piercing is crucial for aesthetics and healing. Since this is a surface piercing, the type of jewellery you choose can significantly impact the healing process. Here are some popular options:
- Surface Bars: These are specifically designed for surface piercings. Their flat shape sits nicely under the skin, reducing the chances of rejection. Surface bars typically have two 90-degree bends, which allow the jewellery to lay flat against the skin.
- Curved Barbells: While not ideal as surface bars, curved barbells can be used in horizontal eyebrow piercings. However, they may increase the risk of irritation or migration over time because they are not flat.
- Dermal Tops: For those who prefer a minimalist look, dermal tops or microdermals can be used. These single-point piercings involve anchoring a small piece of jewellery under the skin.
When choosing jewellery, it is essential to opt for high-quality materials like titanium, surgical steel, or biocompatible plastics. These materials are less likely to cause allergic reactions and can promote faster healing.
What are the Types of Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing
Small Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing
A small horizontal eyebrow piercing is a subtle and elegant option for those who want a less dramatic look. This piercing typically involves using more minor gauge jewellery, which results in a more delicate appearance.
One of the main advantages of a petite horizontal eyebrow piercing is its versatility. It can be easily concealed with bangs or makeup, making it an excellent option for those who work in professional environments where visible piercings might not be allowed.
The healing process for a petite horizontal eyebrow piercing is similar to that of a standard-sized one, but because the jewellery is more minor, it may heal slightly faster. However, the risk of migration or rejection is still present, so proper aftercare is essential.
Diamond Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing
A diamond horizontal eyebrow piercing is an excellent choice for those who want to add a touch of luxury to their piercing. Whether natural or synthetic, diamonds can elevate the look of any piercing and make it stand out.
When opting for a diamond horizontal eyebrow piercing, choosing high-quality stones and settings is crucial. Lab-grown or cubic zirconia are popular alternatives to natural diamonds, offering a similar sparkle without the hefty price tag.
The diamond can be set in various types of jewellery, including surface bars or dermal tops. The key is to ensure that the setting is secure and doesn’t protrude too much from the skin, which can increase the risk of snagging and irritation.
Double Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing
Some people get a double horizontal eyebrow piercing for a bolder look. This involves getting two horizontal piercings on the same eyebrow, usually parallel. The placement can vary; some opt for a more spaced-out look, while others prefer the piercings to be close together.
A double horizontal eyebrow piercing offers endless customization options. You can mix and match different types of jewellery, such as pairing a diamond stud with a simple barbell or experimenting with other materials and colours.
However, the healing process can be a bit more challenging because you’re dealing with two piercings instead of one. It’s essential to follow aftercare instructions meticulously to prevent complications like infection or migration.
Does Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing Hurt?
Pain is a subjective experience, and what might be painful for one person could be more tolerable for another. However, in general, a horizontal eyebrow piercing is considered to be a relatively low-pain procedure.
The pain is usually minimal because the piercing is done on a surface level and does not go through dense tissue. Most people describe the sensation as a quick pinch or pressure that subsides almost immediately after the needle passes through the skin.
It’s important to note that everyone’s pain tolerance is different, and factors such as anxiety, stress, and fatigue can influence your perception of pain. If you’re concerned about the pain, speaking with your piercer beforehand is a good idea to discuss any worries you might have.
After the procedure, you may experience some soreness or tenderness around the piercing site, but this is typically mild and should subside within a few days.
Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing Healing Time
The healing time for a horizontal eyebrow piercing can vary depending on several factors, but it takes about 3 to 9 weeks to heal fully on average. However, it’s important to note that surface piercings, like horizontal eyebrow piercings, are more prone to complications such as migration or rejection, which can extend the healing period.
During the healing process, proper aftercare practices are essential to prevent infection and ensure that the piercing heals properly. This includes cleaning the piercing site with a saline solution, avoiding touching the piercing with dirty hands, and removing makeup or skincare products near the area.
It’s also important to avoid activities that could pressure the piercing, such as sleeping on the side of the piercing or wearing tight headwear. Any trauma to the piercing site can delay the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
If you notice any signs of infection, such as excessive redness, swelling, pain, or discharge, it’s crucial to seek advice from a professional piercer or healthcare provider. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming serious problems and help ensure your piercing heals properly.
While the average healing time is 3 to 9 weeks, it’s not uncommon for surface piercings to take longer, sometimes several months, to heal completely. Everyone’s body heals differently, so patience is essential and does not rush the process. Even after the piercing seems healed, the tissue around it may still be delicate, so it’s important to continue caring for it until it feels settled.
Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing Aftercare
Proper aftercare is essential for ensuring your horizontal eyebrow piercing heals without complications. Here are some steps you should follow:
- Clean the Piercing Site: Use a saline solution or a piercing aftercare spray to clean the area around your piercing twice daily. Avoid alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can be too harsh and cause irritation.
- Avoid Touching: Keep your hands off the piercing unless you clean it. Touching the piercing with unwashed hands can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection.
- No Makeup: Avoid applying makeup or skincare products near the piercing until it is fully healing. These products can cause irritation and may lead to infection.
- Be Careful When Sleeping: Avoid sleeping on the side with the piercing, as pressure can cause irritation and delay healing. Use a travel pillow or sleep on your back to avoid putting pressure on the area.
- Watch for Signs of Infection: Check your piercing for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice these symptoms, consult a piercer or healthcare provider promptly.
- Avoid Swimming: Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water until your piercing is fully healed. These environments can introduce bacteria to the piercing site.
- Be Patient. Healing takes time, and patience is essential throughout the process. Rushing it by changing the jewellery too soon or skipping aftercare can lead to complications.
Final Thoughts
A horizontal eyebrow piercing is a bold and stylish choice for anyone looking to make a statement. While it may have a slightly higher risk of complications due to its surface nature, proper aftercare and patience can help ensure a smooth healing process. Whether you opt for a simple barbell, a sparkling diamond, or even a double piercing, the horizontal eyebrow piercing will turn heads and add an edgy touch to your look.
Remember, when it comes to body modifications, it’s always best to do thorough research and consult a professional piercer with experience with the specific type of piercing you’re interested in. With the right approach, your horizontal eyebrow piercing can be a beautiful and long-lasting addition to your style.
