If you’ve been scrolling through social media lately, you might have stumbled upon the term “raccoon bite piercing.” This comprehensive guide explores what this trend really means and introduces you to the established world of bite piercings.
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What Exactly is a Raccoon Bite Piercing?
If you’ve been scrolling through social media lately, you might have stumbled upon the term “raccoon bite piercing.” It’s a name that definitely sparks curiosity, but it also causes a bit of confusion. Here’s the thing: in the professional piercing world, there’s no official piercing with this name. It seems to be a catchy phrase born from online trends.
The name probably comes from the idea of a raccoon’s bite leaving a pair of small, distinct marks. This has led people to guess it might mean a set of two piercings, but without a clear definition from piercing experts, it remains more of a social media phenomenon than a standard procedure.
Meet the “Bite” Family: Real Lip Piercing Styles
While the raccoon bite piercing is more of a mystery, a whole family of established lip piercings called “bites” offers a similar aesthetic. These styles involve multiple, strategically placed piercings around the mouth, giving you a ton of options for a truly bold and personalized look.
Snake Bites
A fan favorite, snake bite piercings are a pair of symmetrical piercings placed on either side of the lower lip. The look is meant to mimic the fangs of a snake, creating a cool, balanced, and undeniably edgy vibe.
Spider Bites
Also known as viper bites, this style features two piercings set close together on one side of the lower lip. Spider bites offer a more concentrated, asymmetrical look that makes a subtle yet strong statement.
Angel Bites
Think of angel bites as the upper-lip version of snake bites. This style consists of two symmetrical piercings placed above the upper lip. It’s often chosen for a look that feels a bit more delicate and ethereal.
So Many Other Bites
The creativity doesn’t stop there. The world of bite piercings also includes dolphin bites (two piercings centered just below the lower lip), shark bites (a bold set of four piercings, with two on each side of the lower lip), and even canine bites (a four-piercing combo of angel and snake bites).
The Piercing Process: What to Expect
No matter which style catches your eye, getting it done right means going to a reputable and experienced professional. Your journey will start with a consultation where you’ll chat about the perfect placement and jewelry for your anatomy and style.
Your piercer will carefully mark the spots to ensure everything is symmetrical and aligned just right. Once you give the thumbs-up, the area is cleaned, and the piercing is done swiftly with a sterile, single-use needle. You’ll feel a quick pinch, but it’s over in a moment.
Aftercare: Your Guide to Happy Healing
Pro Tip: Great aftercare is the secret to a happy, healthy piercing and avoiding any pesky complications.
Your piercer will give you detailed instructions, but the golden rule is to clean your new piercing twice a day with a sterile saline solution.
Good oral hygiene is just as important. Rinsing your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash after you eat helps keep things clean inside. And as tempting as it might be, try to avoid touching or playing with the jewelry—this can introduce bacteria and slow down healing.
Know the Risks
Important: Like any body modification, lip piercings do come with some risks, such as potential infection, swelling, and irritation. There’s also a chance of the jewelry rubbing against your teeth and gums, which can cause wear over time.
But don’t let that scare you. Choosing a skilled piercer and sticking to your aftercare routine dramatically cuts down these risks. If you notice any major pain, swelling, or weird discharge, it’s always best to check in with your piercer or a doctor right away.
Choosing Your Bling
Once your piercing is all healed up, the fun part begins: picking out new jewelry! The most common choices for bite piercings are labret studs, which feature a comfortable flat disc on the inside of your mouth, or classic captive bead rings and seamless hoops.
Material Matters: When it comes to materials, your skin will thank you for choosing high-quality, hypoallergenic options. Look for implant-grade stainless steel, titanium, or solid gold, as these are least likely to cause any irritation.
From Fleeting Trend to Timeless Style
So, while the “raccoon bite piercing” might just be a passing internet trend, it opens the door to a whole world of established, professional bite piercings that are perfect for expressing yourself. Whether you’re drawn to the classic cool of snake bites or the bold statement of shark bites, there’s a style out there for you.
At the end of the day, what matters most is finding a great piercer, taking your aftercare seriously, and choosing quality jewelry. Do that, and you’ll have a stunning piercing that’s both safe and stylish for years to come.
