What’s the Deal with Raccoon Bites Piercings?
If you’ve been scrolling through social media lately, you might have stumbled upon the term “raccoon bites piercing.” It’s a name that catches the eye, but it has left many in the piercing community scratching their heads.
Here’s the secret: “raccoon bites” isn’t an official term. It seems to be a catchy name that popped up online, creating a buzz but also a lot of confusion. You won’t find it in any professional piercer’s handbook.
The Real Piercing: Meet the Canine Bites
So, what are people actually getting when they ask for this trend? The style that “raccoon bites” refers to is a classic configuration known as “canine bites.” This is a recognized and established set of four symmetrical piercings around the mouth.
Think of it as a combination of two other popular styles. It pairs “angel bites,” which are on the upper lip, with “snake bites,” which are on the lower lip, creating a striking and balanced look.
Quick Fact: Canine bites get their name because the four piercings are positioned to mimic where a canine’s teeth would be located.
Getting the Placement Just Right
For canine bites to look their best, placement is everything. The four piercings are carefully positioned to mirror where canine teeth would be, with two above the top lip and two below the bottom lip, flanking the corners of the mouth.
An experienced piercer knows that symmetry is non-negotiable for this look. They will take the time to measure and mark the spots precisely, ensuring the final result is clean, professional, and perfectly aligned.
Choosing Your Jewelry
Now for the fun part: the jewelry. The go-to choice for fresh canine bites is a set of labret studs. These are ideal for healing, with a comfortable flat disc on the inside of your lip and a decorative ball or gem on the outside.
Material matters, especially with oral piercings. Always opt for high-quality, body-safe metals. Implant-grade titanium is a top recommendation because it’s nickel-free and won’t tarnish. Other solid choices include 14k gold or surgical steel, though steel can be an issue for those with nickel sensitivities.
Your piercer will fit you with the right size, typically a 14g or 16g stud, with a length that accommodates any initial swelling.
Pain, Healing, and Proper Aftercare
Let’s talk about what to expect. Since you’re getting four individual piercings, you should be prepared for a moderate amount of pain. Everyone’s tolerance is different, but it’s a process that requires some patience.
Healing each piercing properly can take about 3 to 4 months. Diligent aftercare is the key to avoiding complications. This means cleaning the outside with a sterile saline solution twice daily and maintaining excellent oral hygiene to keep the inside clean.
Pro Tip: Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and smoking during the healing process to prevent irritation and promote faster healing.
Why Using the Right Name Is a Pro-Move
Here’s a pro-tip for anyone considering this look: use the right name. Walking into a studio and asking for “canine bites” ensures there’s no confusion and that your piercer knows exactly what you want.
Clear communication is crucial for safety and for getting the result you envision. Always trust a reputable, experienced professional for any body modification, as they understand the anatomy and proper techniques.
Are Canine Bites the Right Look for You?
At the end of the day, the viral “raccoon bites piercing” is simply a new nickname for the long-standing canine bites style. It’s a bold, edgy look that definitely makes a statement.
If you’re drawn to this piercing set, the most important step is to find a skilled professional. With the right piercer and dedicated aftercare, you’ll be able to rock your new canine bites with confidence.
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