Are you tired of the same old piercing styles that seem to be everywhere? Why not try something new and make a bold statement with a mantis piercing? This unique type of piercing has gained popularity in recent years and has become a favorite among those looking for something different and eye-catching.
So, what exactly is a mantis piercing? It’s a type of piercing that is located between the chin and lower lip, typically around the mental nerve. This piercing is also called a philtrum piercing, due to its placement on the philtrum of the face. The piercing itself is usually done with a small barbell that passes through the philtrum and sits slightly above the lip. While it may look intimidating, especially if you’re not accustomed to piercings, it’s a relatively simple piercing to get and heal.
If you’re looking to make a fashion statement and stand out from the crowd, then a mantis piercing is a great choice. Whether you’re seeking a subtle addition to your existing piercings or want to make a bold new statement, this type of piercing is sure to turn heads. So why not take the leap and try it out for yourself? A mantis piercing may just be the fresh and exciting new look you’ve been searching for.
History of Mantis Piercing
The mantis piercing is a unique piercing that has been gaining popularity in recent years. This piercing is also known as a nasallang piercing and is a combination of two piercings – one through each nostril and one through the septum. The term “mantis” comes from the insect, which has a similar appearance when viewed from the front. While this piercing may seem new, it actually has a rich history that dates back centuries.
The earliest documentation of the nasallang piercing dates back to the 16th century. In India, this piercing was performed on both men and women as part of their tradition. It was believed that the piercing would help to enhance the wearer’s spiritual and physical well-being. This piercing was also common in other parts of Southeast Asia. It was a symbol of wealth and status, and only those who could afford it would get this piercing.
Over time, the mantis piercing became popular among the punk and alternative communities. In the 1980s, it became a part of the body modification movement, where individuals used piercings and other methods to modify their appearance. Today, the mantis piercing is readily available for those who want it, and it is considered to be one of the more extreme piercing options.
Types of Mantis Piercings
Mantis piercings are a popular type of body modification that involves the insertion of a curved barbell into the skin on the neck. This piercing is usually done horizontally, with the barbell passing through the skin on either side of the throat. There are different types of mantis piercings, each with its own unique style and placement.
- Double Mantis: This is the most common type of mantis piercing, which involves two curved barbells that are inserted horizontally on either side of the neck. This piercing creates a symmetrical look and is popular among both men and women. Double Mantis piercings can be adorned with a variety of jewelry designs, including spikes, gemstones, and dangles.
- Vertical Mantis: This piercing involves a curved barbell that is inserted vertically through the skin on the neck. The barbell passes through two holes, one at the base of the neck and another near the jawline. Vertical Mantis piercings have a more dramatic effect and are best suited for those who want to make a bold statement with body art.
- Spiral Mantis: This is a unique type of mantis piercing that involves a spiral-shaped barbell that is inserted horizontally through the skin on the neck. The spiral design adds an interesting twist to the traditional double mantis piercing and can create a visually stunning effect. Spiral Mantis piercings can be adorned with a variety of jewelry designs, including gemstones and dangling charms.
Maintaining Mantis Piercings
After getting a mantis piercing, it is important to take care of it properly to prevent infection or other complications. Here are some tips for maintaining your mantis piercing:
First, make sure to clean the piercing regularly with a saline solution or an antiseptic solution recommended by your piercer. Avoid touching the piercing unnecessarily or exposing it to dirt or other contaminants.
You should also avoid swimming, submerging in water, or exposing the piercing to excessive amounts of moisture until it has healed completely. This typically takes six to eight weeks.
| Signs of Infection | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Swelling or redness around the piercing site | Contact your piercer or a medical professional for advice on how to best treat the infection. |
| Yellow or green discharge from the piercing site | Contact your piercer or a medical professional for advice on how to best treat the infection. |
| Fever, chills, or other signs of illness | Contact a medical professional immediately for advice on how to best treat the infection. |
By following these tips, you can maintain a healthy and aesthetically pleasing mantis piercing that will turn heads and inspire awe.
Procedure for Getting a Mantis Piercing
A Mantis piercing, also known as the vertical labret piercing, is a unique type of lip piercing that involves a single piece of jewelry going through both the upper and lower lip. If you are thinking about getting a Mantis piercing, here is what you can expect:
- Choose a reputable piercing studio: Research reputable piercing studios in your area that have experienced piercers and good reviews. Make sure they use high-quality, sterile equipment and follow safe piercing protocols.
- Schedule a consultation: Schedule a consultation with the piercer to discuss your concerns, ask any questions you may have, and to talk about the piercing process.
- Preparing for the piercing: Before getting a Mantis piercing, it is important to eat a full meal, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol or drugs. It is also recommended to avoid aspirin and ibuprofen, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
During the piercing process, you can expect the following:
- Marking the piercing: The piercer will use a surgical marker to mark the spots where the piercing will go through the upper and lower lip. This will ensure the piercing is centered and straight.
- Prepping the area: The piercer will clean the area with an antiseptic solution to remove any bacteria and prevent infection.
- Piercing the lip: The piercer will use a needle to pierce both the upper and lower lip at the marked spots simultaneously. You may feel some pressure or discomfort during the piercing process, but it should only last a few seconds.
After the piercing is completed, the piercer will insert a piece of jewelry, usually a barbell or a curved barbell. They will give you aftercare instructions to follow, which may include cleaning the piercing with saline solution and avoiding certain activities or foods.
Tips for Healing a Mantis Piercing
It may take several weeks to several months for your Mantis piercing to fully heal. Here are some tips to help with the healing process:
- Follow the aftercare instructions given by your piercer.
- Be gentle when brushing your teeth or eating, and avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands.
- Avoid smoking, kissing, and oral sex for the first few weeks of healing.
- Avoid swimming or soaking in hot tubs until the piercing has fully healed.
- Try to avoid sleeping on your face, as this can put pressure on the piercing and slow down the healing process.
Mantis Piercing Jewelry Options
There are several different types of jewelry that can be used for a Mantis piercing, including:
| Jewelry Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Barbell | A straight piece of jewelry with a bead on each end. |
| Curved Barbell | A slightly curved piece of jewelry with a bead on each end. |
| Circular Barbell | A horseshoe-shaped piece of jewelry with a bead on each end. |
| Captive Bead Ring | A ring with a small bead that fits into the ring. |
It is important to choose high-quality jewelry made from materials like surgical steel, titanium, or gold that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction or infection.
Mantis Piercing Aftercare
Once you have gotten your mantis piercing, it is crucial to take good care of it. Here are some aftercare tips to keep in mind:
- Clean the piercing twice a day with a saline solution or cleaning solution provided by your piercer. It is important not to over-clean the piercing as this can lead to irritation and slow down the healing process.
- Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands as this can introduce bacteria and cause infection.
- Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and other bodies of water until the piercing has fully healed. These environments can introduce harmful bacteria that can cause infection.
In addition to these tips, it is important to keep an eye on the piercing as it heals. If you notice any excessive swelling, discharge, or signs of infection, contact your piercer or a medical professional immediately. These are signs that the piercing is not healing properly and requires attention.
Below is a table outlining the expected healing times for each part of the mantis piercing:
| Piercing Location | Healing Time |
|---|---|
| Upper lip | 6-8 weeks |
| Lower lip | 8-10 weeks |
| Tongue | 4-6 weeks |
Remember, taking good care of your mantis piercing is crucial for a healthy and speedy healing process. With these aftercare tips in mind, you’ll be enjoying your new piercing in no time!
Recommended Jewelry for Mantis Piercings
Choosing the right jewelry is crucial not only for the aesthetic appeal but also for the comfort and overall healing process of your piercing. Here are some recommended jewelry options for Mantis Piercings:
- Straight Barbells: This is usually the initial jewelry used for Mantis Piercings. It has a straight bar with two beads on either end. The beads sit on top of the earlobe, giving it a prominent and unique appearance.
- Curved Barbells: As the piercing starts to heal, you can switch to a curved barbell. This jewelry type follows the natural curve of the ear and provides a more comfortable fit.
- Circular Barbells: If you want a more subtle look, a circular barbell may be a good option. It has a horseshoe shape and the beads sit snugly against the ear. This jewelry type is also great if you have long hair or wear headphones often as it doesn’t get caught easily.
When choosing jewelry for your Mantis Piercing, it is important to consider the material it is made of. Implant-grade metals like Titanium and Surgical Steel are great options as they are hypoallergenic, durable, and won’t irritate your skin. Avoid jewelry made of nickel or other cheap metals as they can cause allergic reactions and slow down the healing process.
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, there are also different designs and embellishments available for Mantis Piercing jewelry. Swarovski crystals, colored gems, and even charms can be added to your jewelry to make it stand out. Just make sure to choose a design that won’t get caught on your clothing or hair.
| Jewelry Type | Material | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Straight Barbells | Titanium, Surgical Steel | Prominent and unique appearance, great for initial piercing |
| Curved Barbells | Titanium, Surgical Steel | Follows natural curve of ear, provides more comfortable fit |
| Circular Barbells | Titanium, Surgical Steel | Subtle and comfortable, great for long hair or headphones |
Ultimately, the choice of jewelry for your Mantis Piercing will depend on your personal style and comfort. Consult with your piercer to determine the best options for you based on the healing stage of your piercing.
Healing Time for Mantis Piercings
As with any type of piercing, proper aftercare is crucial for the healing process of a mantis piercing. The average healing time for a mantis piercing is 6-12 weeks, but can vary depending on the individual’s body and how well they follow aftercare instructions.
- During the healing process, it’s important to keep the piercing clean and dry.
- Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands, and never rotate the jewelry as this can cause irritation and delay the healing process.
- Avoid submerging the piercing in water, including swimming pools, hot tubs, and lakes.
In addition to following aftercare instructions, there are certain factors that can affect the healing time of a mantis piercing. These include:
- Individual body chemistry and immune system
- The location of the piercing on the body
- Type of jewelry used
To ensure proper healing, it’s important to monitor the piercing for any signs of infection or other complications. Some common signs of an infected piercing include redness, swelling, discharge, and fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
| Healing Time | Aftercare Tips |
|---|---|
| 6-8 weeks |
|
| 8-12 weeks |
|
Overall, the healing time for a mantis piercing can be relatively short with proper aftercare and attention to any potential complications. It’s important to take the healing process seriously and prioritize the health of your piercing to avoid any long-term issues.
Mantis Piercing Risks and Complications
The Mantis piercing is a unique and uncommon type of body piercing that many people believe looks cool and edgy. It is located on the bridge of the nose, between the eyes, and is considered a high-risk piercing. Like any other type of piercing, there are risks and complications associated with it, and as such, it is crucial to understand these before getting one. Some of the Mantis piercing risks and complications include the following:
- Infection: Infections are common with any body piercing, including Mantis piercing. The risk increases if proper aftercare isn’t followed. In most cases, infections can be treated with antibiotics, but more severe cases may require hospitalization.
- Rejection: Because of the delicate tissue in the area, the body will sometimes reject the jewelry. This is when the body pushes out the jewelry, leaving a small scar behind.
- Migration: Mantis piercing can migrate (move from its original location), causing uneven scarring, discomfort, and a less attractive appearance.
- Numbness: The risk of nerve damage, leading to temporary or permanent numbness, is high with Mantis piercing. This could happen even if the piercing itself goes well.
- Hypertrophic Scarring: Mantis piercing is prone to hypertrophic scarring, where the body develops scars that are raised, red, and bumpy, which could take a long time to fade.
- Snagging and Pulling: The jewelry of the Mantis piercing is relatively long and can get caught on clothes, hair, or even skin. This can cause injury such as tearing out the piercing, which is excruciating and will require immediate medical attention.
- Mucous Membrane Trauma: The Mantis piercing goes through the mucous membrane of the nose, which is delicate and sensitive. The piercing can cause pain, inflammation, and swelling that could last for days or even weeks.
Pain Level and Sensitivity of Mantis Piercing
Getting a mantis piercing is considered to be a relatively painful procedure, but the level of pain someone experiences will vary based on their individual pain tolerance. The pain of the piercing is dependent on several factors, including the location of the piercing and the experience level of the piercer.
Many people describe the pain of a mantis piercing as a sharp, intense sensation that subsides quickly after the piercing is complete. Some people report that the pain feels similar to a bee sting. Typically, the pain is more intense during the actual piercing and then fades quickly once the jewelry is in place.
- Pain level is subjective and can vary based on a person’s pain tolerance.
- Location of the piercing can impact pain level.
- Experience level of the piercer can also impact pain level.
After the initial healing period, most people report that their mantis piercing is relatively painless and does not cause discomfort in their day-to-day lives. However, it is essential to care for the piercing properly to minimize any discomfort during the healing process.
Sensitivity is also a factor to consider when discussing mantis piercings. The area surrounding the piercing may be sensitive to the touch, and certain activities may cause discomfort or irritation. This is why it is crucial to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer carefully. Proper aftercare can help minimize sensitivity and prevent infection or complications.
| Factors That Impact Pain Level | Possible Impact on Pain Level |
|---|---|
| Pain tolerance of the individual | Significant variability in pain level between individuals |
| Location of the piercing | Pain level can vary based on the thickness of the skin and nerve endings in the piercing area | Experience level of the piercer | Pain level may be reduced with a skilled piercer who can complete the piercing quickly and accurately |
Overall, the pain level and sensitivity of a mantis piercing are relatively mild compared to other piercings, but it is still essential to follow proper aftercare instructions and consult with a professional piercer to minimize any discomfort or complications.
Changing Jewelry for Mantis Piercings
If you’re considering getting a mantis piercing, it’s important to know that you’ll need to change your jewelry occasionally. The process of changing jewelry for a mantis piercing is similar to changing jewelry for other body piercings, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that the process is as easy and painless as possible.
- Wait until your piercing is fully healed before attempting to change your jewelry. Depending on your body and the specific piercing, this can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
- Choose high-quality jewelry made from materials that won’t irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction. Surgical-grade stainless steel, titanium, and niobium are all good options.
- Clean your hands and your jewelry before attempting to change your piercing. Use soap and warm water to clean your hands and a saline solution to clean your jewelry.
When it comes to changing your jewelry, there are a few different types of mantis piercings, each with their own specific considerations:
Vertical Mantis Piercing: For this piercing, you’ll need to unscrew the top ball of your jewelry and slide the barbell out. Then, slide the new barbell through the piercing and screw the top ball back on.
Horizontal Mantis Piercing: Changing the jewelry for this piercing can be a little trickier, as the jewelry needs to slide through the piercing at a specific angle. To make things easier, you can use a taper to guide the new jewelry through the piercing.
If you’re having trouble changing your jewelry, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional piercer for assistance. They’ll be able to guide you through the process and ensure that your piercing stays healthy and happy.
| Recommended Materials | Not Recommended Materials |
|---|---|
| Surgical-grade stainless steel | Plastic |
| Titanium | Gold-plated or gold-filled |
| Niobium | Sterling silver |
Remember, changing your jewelry regularly is an important part of maintaining a healthy piercing. With a little bit of patience and care, you’ll be able to keep your mantis piercing happy and looking great for years to come.
Popular Celebrities with Mantis Piercings
Mantis piercing is not only popular among ordinary people, but also among celebrities. In fact, this type of piercing has been spotted on several famous personalities over the years. Here are some popular celebrities with mantis piercings:
- Cara Delevingne: The English model and actress is known for her love for piercings and tattoos. She has a striking mantis piercing on her right ear that perfectly complements her edgy style.
- Miley Cyrus: The American singer and actress has been known to experiment with various types of piercings. She has a mantis piercing on her left ear that she often flaunts on red carpets and in music videos.
- Chris Brown: The R&B singer has a unique mantis piercing on his lower lip that adds a bit of edge to his already bold look.
- Amber Rose: The American model and entrepreneur is no stranger to body modifications. She has a stunning mantis piercing on her right ear that perfectly complements her shaved head and bold personality.
- Ashley Graham: The American model and body activist has a single mantis piercing on her left ear that pairs effortlessly with her timeless and chic style.
If you’re a fan of these famous personalities and are looking to get a piercing of your own, a mantis piercing might just be the perfect fit for you.
FAQs about Mantis Piercing
1. What is a mantis piercing?
A mantis piercing is a type of lip piercing that involves two separate piercings on the bottom lip, with one piercing slightly above the other.
2. How is a mantis piercing done?
A professional piercer will use a sterilized needle to create two holes in the lower lip, one above the other. They will then insert a piece of jewelry, typically a labret stud or hoop, into each hole.
3. Does a mantis piercing hurt?
Like all piercings, there will be some degree of pain or discomfort during the process, but it is typically a quick and tolerable sensation. Afterward, your lips may be sore and swollen for a few days.
4. How do I care for my mantis piercing?
It is important to keep the area clean and avoid touching or playing with the jewelry. Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer, which may include cleaning the area with saline solution and avoiding certain foods and activities.
5. Can I change the jewelry in my mantis piercing?
Once the initial healing period is over, you can switch out your jewelry for different styles or materials. However, it is important to choose high-quality jewelry and avoid changing the jewelry too frequently, as this can irritate the piercing.
6. How long does a mantis piercing take to heal?
The healing time for a mantis piercing can vary depending on the individual, but it generally takes 6-12 weeks for the initial healing process. However, it may take several months for the piercing to fully heal and the jewelry to be fully secure.
7. Can anyone get a mantis piercing?
While most people can get a mantis piercing, it is important to consult with a professional piercer to determine if it is the right option for you based on your individual anatomy and medical history.
Closing Thoughts
We hope that this article has helped answer your questions about what a mantis piercing is and what to expect. Remember that the most important aspects of getting a piercing are choosing a reputable piercer and following proper aftercare practices. Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you again soon!