Dolphin bites piercings offer a sweet blend of whimsy and edgy vibes to your look. Their placement of two close piercings just below the lower lip is inspired by the anatomical narrowness of dolphin mouths. Thus, they offer a unique and stylish way to express your individuality. While many people have their heart set on this trendy double lip piercing, many hesitate to adorn it due to a lack of knowledge. If you are one of them, you are in the right place! Keep reading to learn everything related to dolphin bites piercings, from what they are, where they lie on the pain scale, their healing time, cost, as well as aftercare tips and recommended jewelry pieces. So, dive in!
- Placement: Horizontally on the edge of the lower lip
- Best Jewelry: Straight bars, sleek studs, bead rings, curved barbells, and seamless hoops
- Cost: $50 to $80
- Pain Level: Medium
- Healing Time: 1 to 2 months
In This Article
What Are Dolphin Bites Piercing?
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Dolphin bites piercing features the placement of two closely spaced piercings on the lower lip resembling a bite from a dolphin, and inspired by the aquatic creature’s playful nature. The piercing is quite similar in appearance to the snake bites piercing , differing in terms of distance between the two piercing placements, with the snake bites being placed further apart.
The dolphin bites piercings are versatile and can be done either exactly on the edge of the lower lip, or slightly underneath as well. This piercing is especially great if you are looking to elongate your face shape or make your lower lip appear fuller. The placement also allows for creative jewelry options, from sleek studs and seamless hoops, to captive bead rings, thereby enhancing the overall visual aesthetics.
Now that we are aware of what exactly dolphin bites piercings are, let us understand where it stands on the pain scale. Check the next section to know more.
Key Takeaways
- A dolphin bites piercing refers to two closely-placed piercings on the lower lip in a horizontal orientation.
- The total healing process for the oral piercing can last from 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the piercing placement, individual healing process, and aftercare methods.
- Labret studs, intricate rings, and circular barbells are the most common jewelry choices for dolphin bites piercing.
- The piercing can cost anything between 50 to 80 dollars, which can be influenced by factors like location of the piercing studio, jewelry material, and expertise of the piercer.
How Much Do Dolphin Bites Piercings Hurt?
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Dolphin bites piercings typically invite moderate pain, similar to other lip piercings . However, since the individual pain threshold varies, the piercing sensations have been recorded as ranging from a pinch to a brief sting during the procedure. The pain level can also depend on the piercing placement, and technique and skill level of the piercer. You can experience more discomfort if the piercing is done on the lip rather than the skin underneath due to the heightened sensitivity in that area. Thus, it is important to choose a professional piercer who has extensive experience in facial piercings, and has a solid idea of the differences that individual anatomies bring. Moreover, factors like stress and anxiety can also heighten the perception of pain ( 1 ). Dolphin bites piercings often fall in the middle on the pain scale and can be rated a 5/10.
Understanding the healing time and overall process is also crucial before deciding on adorning this popular piercing. So, scroll down to know all about the recovery process.
Process And Healing Time For Dolphin Bites Piercings
The overall healing time for a dolphin bites piercing generally spans 6 to 8 weeks, but individual experiences can vary. The initial stage involves redness, swelling, and tenderness, which should gradually subside by the third week. You can expect complete healing by week 8, which is often marked by reduced skin sensitivity and the option to change the initial jewelry pieces.
It is also important to strictly adhere to aftercare practices to aid and accelerate the healing process. So, scroll down as we explore simple aftercare tips that aid good recovery.
Aftercare Tips For Dolphin Bites Piercings
Ensuring a good after routine is crucial in achieving optimal healing. Here are some easy tips to keep in mind:
- Use A Saline Solution: Rinse the fresh piercing with a saline solution twice daily to combat swelling during the initial healing stage and reduce the risk of infections. Mix ¼ sea salt with one cup of tepid water to make the saline solution and use on the pierced area ( 2 ).
- Avoid Spicy/Hot Foods: Refrain from eating spicy or hot foods that can cause irritation to the sensitive pierced skin and also cause a delay in the healing process ( 3 ). It is recommended to skip alcohol too as it can damage the delicate skin tissues of the fresh piercing ( 4 ).
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Ensure to maintain good oral hygiene by using a non-alcoholic, antiseptic mouthwash and gentle brushing. This is important to prevent bacteria buildup for a smooth healing experience.
- Refrain From Touching: Avoid disturbing the new piercing by constantly touching it, as this can cause a delay in the healing process and lead to additional stress. It is recommended to not indulge in any oral activities as well such as kissing or oral sex during the initial healing stages.
- Check Regularly For Infections: Attentively check for signs of infections like increased inflammation, redness, or discharge, and seek the guidance of a doctor when required ( 5 ).
- Skip Makeup Products: Refrain from using cosmetic lip products like lip balms, tints, and lipsticks that may be formulated with harsh chemicals and fragrance, and thus irritate the freshly-pierced skin, causing a hindrance to the healing process.
Another important factor to keep in mind while sticking to a good aftercare routine is correctly cleaning the fresh piercing. Check out some simple steps in the following section.
How To Clean Dolphin Bites Piercings
- Start by washing your hands with antibacterial soap and lukewarm water.
- Now, mix half a teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt with one cup of warm water to create a saline solution.
- Soak a sterile cotton swab in the saline solution.
- Squeeze out the excess water from the swab and gently apply on the newly pierced area.
- Gently wipe the piercings and remove any crusting without applying excess pressure or movement.
- Pat dry with a paper towel or dry cotton gauze.
- Follow these simple steps twice daily.
Before going ahead with the piercing appointment, you might want to weigh its advantages and disadvantages as well, so you have a holistic understanding of what you are in for. Read on for some pros and cons of dolphin bites piercing.
Pros And Cons Of Dolphin Bites Piercings
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Akin to other mouth piercings , a dolphin bites piercing also has its pros and cons. Read about them below:
Pros:
- A Unique Aesthetic: Dolphin bites piercings result in a distinctive look that instantly enhances the individual’s style and lip anatomy. They are also a boon for round faces looking to elongate their face shape.
- Versatile Jewelry Options: The unique placement allows for a variety of jewelry options, from studs to rings, and even chains if you are feeling bold.
- Moderately Painful: The pain associated with dolphin bites piercing is bearable and considered quite moderate at a 5/10.
- Quick Healing: Dolphin bites piercings often heal within 6 to 8 weeks, allowing a relatively speedy recovery as compared to other facial piercings.
Cons:
- Potential Discomfort: The initial healing process can be uncomfortable due to swelling, redness, and skin sensitivity near an area that moves a lot.
- Risk Of Infection: Similar to other piercings, there is a risk of infection if aftercare guidelines are not followed. These include increased swelling, yellow discharge (pus), extreme warmth, and piercing bumps ( 5 ).
- Piercing Migration: In some rare cases, the piercings may shift or migrate over time, thereby impacting the desired placement ( 5 ).
- Speech/Eating Challenges: Temporary difficulty in speech and eating may occur during the initial healing stage due to inflammation and tenderness near the mouth area.
- Potential Teeth And Gum Damage: Improper jewelry placement or aftercare can lead to gum irritation or tooth enamel damage. A recent study also reported the incidence of tooth wear and chipping in individuals with oral piercings ( 6 ).
Now, if you have set your mind on getting this trendy piercing, then let us begin by figuring out if this one is heavy on the pocket.
How Much Do Dolphin Bites Piercings Cost?
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The cost of the dolphin bites piercing can vary depending on factors such as the piercing studio reputation and location, expertise of the artist, jewelry material, and additional services like aftercare products. Generally, you can expect the cost to be anything between 50 to 80 dollars. It is important to prioritize reputed piercing studios and skilled piercers to ensure an effortless and hygienic piercing experience. While a professional piercing studio may cost more, they are guaranteed to offer good guidance and stick to cleanliness practices.
The next step after figuring out financials is the fun activity of choosing the right type of jewelry, and understanding which is the best suitable material. Scroll down to know more.
Jewelry Styles And Material Types For Dolphin Bites Piercing
Explore the ideal style and material of jewelry for a dolphin bites piercing that will not only help enhance the visual appearance but also reduce the risk of infections.
- Jewelry Styles: Different jewelry types like sleek studs, bead rings, or curved barbells are often used for dolphin bites piercing. These offer a minimalist look and ensure good comfort to support a smooth healing experience.
- Jewelry Materials: You should first know the worst and best metals for piercings to choose the right jewelry material for yourself. Opt for a hypoallergenic material like surgical steel, titanium, niobium, or gold. These materials promote healing and reduce the risk of allergic reactions ( 7 ). It is also recommended to not invest in low-quality jewelry, cheaper metals, and allergen-inducing materials like nickel. In a recent study performed with individuals with piercings, nickel was found to be the most reactive metal ( 8 ).
Dolphin bites piercings have emerged as a captivating fusion of style and bold self-expression. With their unique and versatile placement, an array of jewelry options can be adorned, thus providing a platform for individuals to showcase their distinctive aesthetic. While the healing process demands its own time and diligent aftercare, the lasting impact of the piercing is totally worth it. To ensure a positive experience, choose a reputable piercer, adhere to a proper aftercare routine, and opt for hypoallergenic jewelry materials. Hopefully, the article above was able to provide you with some good insights and motivate you to book your piercing appointment soon!
Are there age restrictions for getting dolphin bites piercings?
While the age restrictions for getting dolphin bites piercings may vary from state to state, most studios require the clients to be a minimum of 16 to 18 years old. Ensure to check your local studio for their regulations and consult with professional piercers before booking an appointment.
Can I change my dolphin piercing jewelry during the healing process?
Ideally, it is recommended not to change the jewelry during the initial healing process that lasts between 6 to 8 weeks. Only when the pierced area has completely recovered should you try changing the jewelry pieces. This will ensure you do not invite any risks of infection during the crucial healing stages.
Can I use numbing cream before getting a dolphin piercing?
You may use a numbing cream if you have a low pain tolerance. Ensure to apply the cream half an hour before the actual piercing procedure and let your piercer know that you have used it.
Can I kiss with dolphin bites piercings?
It is recommended to avoid kissing during the initial healing process of dolphin bites piercings to prevent irritation and risk of infections. Ensure to prioritize oral hygiene and do not come in oral contact with another individual.
Can I get dolphin bites piercings if I have braces or other oral appliances?
It is suggested to refrain from getting dolphin bites piercing if you have braces or oral appliances, as the metal components in braces may interfere with the healing area and lead to complications, discomfort, and damage to both the oral hardware and piercing.
The trending dolphin bites piercing has undoubtedly grabbed everyone’s attention but just like any other lip piercing, it has some shortcomings as well. Check out the video below to learn all about the piercing in detail before booking that appointment!
References
- Depression and anxiety in pain https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4590059/
- Suggested aftercare for body piercings https://safepiercing.org/aftercare/
- Oral piercing: A pretty risk—a scoping review of local and systemic complications of this current widespread fashion https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10177791/
- Alcohol exposure and mechanisms of tissue injury and repair https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3117956/
- Body piercing https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1496593/
- Do oral piercings cause problems in the mouth? https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36151293/
- Jewelry for initial piercings https://safepiercing.org/jewelry-for-initial-piercings/
- Ear piercing as a risk factor for contact allergy to nickel https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20361123/
Dolphin Bites Piercing Guide: Pain, Healing & Jewelry Tips
Watch this video to learn everything about dolphin bites piercings—from pain levels and healing time to aftercare tips and jewelry choices. Watch now to master your look!

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Nothing compares to the peace and serenity of waking through a forest all by yourself. It is almost like the trees and the wind speak to you, and you begin to walk closer to nature leaving the stress of the concrete jungle behind. Even in the world of body art, forest tattoos are very popular among nature lovers and they also carry a deep meaning. Be it the dense pine forest, falls in the deciduous forests, or wild animals, your tattoo can depict your personality better than anything else. If you would like to get a forest tattoo done, we have some creative unique ideas that will surely inspire you for your next inking. Keep reading!
In This Article
Forest Tattoo Meaning
Forest tattoos symbolize a connection between nature and our life. It helps us connect to the serenity that most of us struggle to find in our lives. Forest body arts capture the beauty of undisturbed nature and remind you to stay close to it. The tattoos can be drawn using diverse styles and each design can be customized to add more meaning to it. They also signify strength, fertility, and nourishment. Some even believe it is a sign of spirituality, immortality, and freedom. Forests also symbolize growth and transformation. So, forest tattoos can inspire individuals to overcome life’s challenges to grow and develop in life. Forests withstand strong winds, wildfires, and other natural disasters. So, they also represent endurance and resilience.
To make your forest tattoo more meaningful, you can add animals to it. Some people include their spirit animals in the tattoo while some add names. The more you explore the more options and ideas you will be able to get. Check out the next section on how to select the right forest tattoo design!
Tips For Choosing Your Forest Tattoo
- Forest tattoos can be small and subtle or large or detailed, pick a tattoo size that resonates with your personal preferences, aesthetics, and budget. Small tattoos are typically great for those who are new to the tattooing world and are given to minimalistic sensibilities.
- If you are going for a detailed and complex tattoo opt for flat areas like the chest or the upper as it reads well there. While, if you are going for a dainty or wrap-around forest design, opt for arms and legs as these designs can perfectly fit to the curves and contours of these areas.
- Go for forest tattoos in black ink, if you like sophisticated and timeless designs. Opt for colorful forest tattoos, if you have a lively, happy, and energetic personality.
- Consider a forest tattoo of personal importance. Customize a design that carries a sentimental meaning, is inspiring, reminds you of a dear one, or a major life-changing event in life.
The above-listed tips can help you walk away with a forest tattoo art that not only resonates with your personal style but also complements the flow of your body. Now, let’s move on to see some incredible forest tattoo designs.
8 Amazing Forest Tattoo Designs
Here are some meaningful and one-of-a-kind forest tattoos to make your body art unique. Browse through them so you can get ideas for the one tattoo that will unite you with the nature-loving side of you.
1. Half Arm Forest Tattoo

Half-arm tattoos are always a great option for tattooing. They are easily visible when you wear a half-sleeve shirt or t-shirt and can be concealed under full-sleeve attires if you are attending a formal event. This tattoo on the upper arm depicts tall pine trees reaching toward the sky, symbolizing the resilience of nature. The silhouette of the forest and the blackwork-style shading effectively capture the mystery and allure of a forest.
2. Forest Sleeve Tattoo

Just one look at this realistic tattoo and you know you want it. This gorgeous piece of art is the best sleeve tattoo you can ever invest in. The color palette consists mainly of the color green. The highlights and shade are surreal. The tall trees and path make it perfect for your sleeve. If you don’t want the entire sleeve covered, you can keep the art to your forearm. Though this realistic art might be expensive, the overall look is worth it!
3. Forest Forearm Tattoo

Forearms are a great place to flaunt your body art. It gives a lot of space and the perfect curvature for your tattoo artist to ink on. This forest tattoo is done in watercolor style and has a very colorful appeal. The use of green and orange with shade work makes it a perfect artwork on your skin.
4. Dark Forest Tattoo

There is something about a dark and mysterious jungle tattoos that draws you closer. This tattoo of a dark forest is beautifully inked on the forearm. While the trees are drawn in dark ink, the background forms a hazy art that adds more mystery to the tattoo. The realistic art style makes this tattoo even more intriguing. You can scale it up or down and place it on any part of your body.
5. Wrist Forest Tattoo

Wrist tattoos are a wonderful place to flaunt your body art. The design can be minimal, elaborate, or colorful, this is the first place people notice your tattoo. This tattoo design wraps around the wrist and depicts the silhouette of a pine forest. Pine tree tattoos give the tattoo a very green and wholesome element. Notice the subtle form of the sun, with softer edges, in a pale yellow shade in the backdrop. While the forest is a reminder of your own growth, the sun may symbolize a constant source of guidance.
6. Forest And Mountain Tattoo Sleeve

Forests and mountains make the best pair and when drawn in a tattoo, it adds to the beauty of it. This design is a forever favorite among nature lovers and hikers. It has beautiful color shading. The watercolor-style soft and blended colors give a dreamy effect to the forest tattoo and the snow-capped mountains in the backdrop add an element of wonder to it. The tattoo can be placed on the lower sleeve as well and you may add more elements, like meadow and grass, to cover your entire arm. You can also add tribal flower tattoos to the design to give it a traditional feel.
7. Wolf Forest Tattoo

If you are a fan of wolf tattoos, this design will surely attract you. It is made using realistic style and the dark ink shades blend beautifully with one another to form a lone wolf. Placed on the forearm the tattoo looks gorgeous. It has elements like pine trees at the bottom of the tattoo. It is surely one of a kind and if you are a nature tattoo lover, this is the design you should go for.
8. Silhouette Wolf Forest Tattoo

This tattoo has a separate fan base. It carries a deep meaning of spiritual protection. Paired with elements of forest, the art becomes even more authentic. This tattoo on the forearm features a silhouette of a wolf in a circle with two pine trees. The best part about the tattoo is that you can scale it and place it on different parts of the body. It is made with black ink which makes it suitable for all skin tones.
There is no end to how creative you can get with your forest tattoos. The more you look at designs the more inspired you will be. You can also take different elements of the forest you like and turn it into a sleeve tattoo. Make sure you get your realistic tattoos done by seasoned artists only. Make sure you commit to the aftercare to keep the design fresh for a long time. A little TLC goes a long way!
8 Forest Tattoo Designs to Inspire Your Next Ink
Watch our video to explore 8 stunning forest tattoo designs, learn their meanings, and discover tips on size, style, and placement. Dive in now to find your ideal ink!

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Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.
