Extreme piercings are a popular thing among so many people who adore to show their love for this fashion trend. Jaw piercing is one of them. It is a unique way to add a new piercing style to match your mood.
Let’s discuss what is a jaw piercing and whether this unique look is for you or not.
Jaw Piercing Placement
A jaw piercing, sometimes called a mandible piercing ( if it is on the lower jaw) is a jawline piercing, or even a face piercing jaw. This is exactly what it sounds like, a piece of jewellery located around the lower jaw area. Unlike a chin piercing, which sits directly on the chin’s surface, a jaw piercing is placed along the lower edge of the jawline, closer to where the bone shapes your face.
This is a form of extreme piercing that you don’t see every day.
Compared to common lip, nose, or ear piercing, you definitely get something extra with this, as the location stands out and makes a bold statement. If you have a fearless personality, this piercing is for you.
Some also refer to it as a piercing that goes through the jaw, although in reality, it doesn’t go straight through the bone. Instead, it is carefully placed in the skin and tissue near the mandible area by a professional piercer.
Jaw Piercing Procedure
If you’ve had your ear, nose, or lip pierced, you might imagine the same process applies here, but a jawline piercing is a little more complex.
Since the jawline is such a defined and visible area, a professional piercer is recommended to plunge the needle in.
Make sure your jaw is cleaned thoroughly to avoid infection. The piercer creates the hole in the chosen spot along the jawline or mandible, and usually a flat-back stud or labret-style piece is inserted immediately.
The procedure itself is fairly quick, but it comes with a higher level of intensity compared to something like a nose stud. Most people describe the pain as sharper than a lobe piercing but tolerable, around a 6–7 out of 10 on the pain scale.
It’s also worth mentioning that not every piercing shop offers a jaw piercing. Because of its placement, you should always seek a professional.
How to Heal a New Jawline Piercing
Now this is where you want to pay extra attention. Healing a piercing takes time, so you have to be patient and regular about the aftercare.
It is usually safe to give it a rest for 6 to 12 weeks, and this time can increase depending on the person.
Your jawline is exposed to air and visible, so cleanliness is overly important. You are talking, eating, and laughing; that’s why the area is also prone to irritation.
Make sure to ask your piercer to recommend a good saline solution to clean the piercing. You should typically follow the regimen twice a day. Avoid alcohol-based cleansers, as they can dry out the skin.
During healing, try not to touch or play with the jewellery. It may be tempting to check, but too much movement can cause swelling.
For some time, especially during the initial few weeks, try to avoid makeup, creams, or strong skincare products around the area.
Eating softer foods also helps to make the healing faster and better. If you notice unusual swelling, pus, or prolonged redness, consult your piercer or a doctor immediately.
Considerations and Risks of Jaw Piercing
Let’s weigh the risks of jaw piercing and some of the considerations before diving into it.
Infection: Because the jawline is constantly exposed, bacteria can easily irritate the piercing.
Migration or rejection: In some cases, the body may push the jewellery out, especially if the placement isn’t ideal.
Scarring: If removed prematurely or if it gets infected, visible scars may form along the chin or jawline.
Daily challenges: Since it’s right on your face, a jaw piercing may interfere with shaving, skincare routines, or even wearing certain helmets and masks.
That said, people still choose this piercing because they love the bold look it gives.
Jewellery Options for a Jaw Piercing
When it comes to jewellery, the best choices are safe, hypoallergenic materials. Surgical steel, titanium, or bioplast are highly recommended because they reduce the risk of irritation.
Most people opt for flat-back studs or labret-style earrings, as these sit comfortably against the skin without sticking out too much. This helps prevent snagging on clothes or scratching your skin.
Some adventurous people choose small hoops or circular barbells once the piercing is fully healed, but starting with a stud is the safest choice.
Cost and Availability
The cost of a jaw piercing varies depending on where you live and the expertise of the piercer. On average, it may range from $80 to $150, sometimes more if you choose premium jewellery.
Because this isn’t a mainstream piercing like a nose stud or ear lobe, availability can be limited. Not all piercers are trained in mandible piercing procedures, so it’s important to do your research and find someone reputable.
FAQs About Jaw Piercings
Does it hurt more than other piercings?
Yes, it can be more painful than simple piercings like ear lobes, but most describe it as tolerable.
Can it affect my teeth or gums?
Unlike a lip or tongue piercing, a jawline piercing doesn’t directly contact your teeth or gums, but swelling can make eating uncomfortable at first.
How long before I can change the jewellery?
It’s best to wait at least 8–12 weeks before changing the jewellery, or until your piercer confirms it has healed.
Is it permanent or reversible?
Like any piercing, it can be removed. However, scars may remain along the chin or jawline.