An eyebrow piercing is a popular facial piercing due to its quick healing time, low pain, and customisable look. This piercing has been tempting people in since the 70s when it emerged through punk culture. Nowadays, it is more mainstream so anyone can have the confidence to rock an eyebrow piercing. We have gathered your FAQs to give you more information on what to expect when getting an eyebrow piercing and best aftercare.

Are eyebrow piercings painful?

Eyebrow piercings are not as painful as some types of piercing because they are only pierced through skin and soft flesh, similar to a lobe piercing. Some people describe eyebrow piercing pain like a pinch or similar to having your eyebrows plucked or waxed. While it may hurt initially and feel uncomfortable, once the swelling has reduced an eyebrow piercing should not cause you any pain.

How long does an eyebrow piercing take to heal?

An eyebrow piercing usually takes 6-8 weeks to heal, providing there are no complications. One of the reasons people opt for an eyebrow piercing is a quick healing time. Eyebrow piercing healing time is fast because the piercing only goes through the skin and soft flesh. If you experience an infection or knock the piercing then it may take longer to fully heal. You should wait a few more months after it has healed before changing your eyebrow piercing jewellery as they can close up very quickly. Some people report bruising with eyebrow piercings but this should not last more than a couple of days.

How are eyebrow piercings done?

An eyebrow piercing is done using a piercing needle. A cannula needle (a hollow piercing needle) is inserted into the skin. The piercer will mark your skin with a pen so you can check you are happy with the location of the piercing. They may then use a clamp or forceps to hold the skin taught. Some piercers will use their fingers to pinch the skin instead. The needle will be pushed from underneath the eyebrow, then out the other side followed by the piercing jewellery that you have chosen.

How much does an eyebrow piercing cost?

How much an eyebrow piercing will cost, depends on the type of piercing jewellery you choose.The average eyebrow piercing cost is £35 - £40. We recommend choosing high quality jewellery. While the price may be higher, it will help your piercing to heal.

Which eyebrow should I pierce?

There is no evidence to suggest eyebrow piercing originated any further back than punk culture in the 70s and there is no special meaning other than as a sign of rebellion. Therefore, it doesn’t matter which eyebrow you choose to pierce. You might want to think about the other piercings you have in order to create a balanced look and overall aesthetic, as is becoming increasingly popular. You could also consider things like which way you part your hair and whether you want to be able to use your hair to cover your piercing if you need to hide it. Basically, it really doesn’t matter which side you get your eyebrow pierced!

Are eyebrow piercings permanent?

An eyebrow piercing can be permanent depending on how long you have had your piercing however the eyebrow piercing location and the small amount of skin that is being pierced means that even if you have had your piercing for several years there is still a chance it will close up if you take you piercing jewellery out. Eyebrow piercings are known for closing up or shrinking very soon after taking out piercing jewellery which can be pretty annoying. If you want your eyebrow piercing to stay permanent then make sure you always wear piercing jewellery. If you are ready to say goodbye then leave your jewellery out, keep an eye on the hole, keep it clean and it should close up without a problem. You may be left with an eyebrow piercing scar, especially if your piercing was knocked or became infected during healing.

Are eyebrow piercings dangerous?

Just like any piercing, eyebrow piercings can be dangerous if they are not done by a professional piercer and you don’t follow correct aftercare. Generally, the risks of eyebrow piercings are fairly minimal because they are only pierced through skin and soft flesh which is quick to heal, therefore limiting the chance of getting an infection. The main danger is of an eyebrow piercing infection but with regular aftercare it is unlikely this will happen. If you think you have got an infection, visit your doctor straight away. The faster you clear up the infection the less risk there will be.

How can I hide my eyebrow piercing?

You can hide your eyebrow piercing using either piercing jewellery or by covering it with your hair or a fringe. The best way to cover your eyebrow piercing is by swapping your piercing jewellery for a clear retainer. Flexible acrylic jewellery is useful for all kinds of purposes including for sport and as medical procedure friendly jewellery so is handy to have as part of your jewellery collection.

Do eyebrow piercings get infected easily?

Eyebrow piercings tend to be less at risk of developing an infection compared to other piercings because they heal quickly and are easy to leave without putting pressure on or knocking the piercing. If you do think you have an eyebrow piercing infection it is important to seek medical help as you may need antibiotics.

What can I use to clean my eyebrow piercing?

When cleaning your eyebrow piercing we recommend using a saltwater solution or Tea Tree Oil. Use cotton wool or a cotton bud to gently bathe the area around your piercing and clear it of any fluid or crust. Follow this eyebrow piercing aftercare twice a day to keep your eyebrow piercing clean.

How do I know if my eyebrow piercing is rejecting?

If your eyebrow piercing is rejecting you may notice that you can start to see or feel the piercing bar under the skin. Your piercing may become uncomfortable or you may notice the angle of the jewellery has shifted. If you think your eyebrow piercing is rejecting then talk to your piercer as they will know what to do and can give you the best advice. They may advise that it is best to retire the piercing before it breaks through the skin in order to minimise scarring.

There are a few different types of eyebrow piercing if you are looking for something more unusual to add to your piercings. A horizontal eyebrow piercing is usually placed above the eyebrow, following the line of the brow, unlike the most common type of eyebrow piercing which is placed vertically on the brow line.

You can try a different surface piercing called the anti eyebrow piercing which is placed below the eye, just above the cheekbone. This alternative piercing is harder to hide so is ideal for those who love showing off their piercings 24/7. This piercing is sometimes called a teardrop piercing if a single microdermal stud is used. The anti-eyebrow piercing is usually performed with a barbell to give the double jewelled look.

Eyebrow piercings have moved from being a punk piercing to a mainstream body mod. This fast healing piercing can be a great first step into facial piercing due to the low pain and easy aftercare.

Want to know more about piercings in general? Check out our Piercing Guides or more of our FAQs.