Brow Piercing 101: Everything You Need to Know in 2025

Author: Mona, APP-certified senior piercing artist. She blends avant-garde designs with human aesthetics, preserving traditional techniques while innovating modern body jewelry. Her works appear in Body Art Magazine, inspiring trendsetters in self-expression.

So, You’re Thinking About a Brow Piercing? Let’s Dive In!

Hey there, style adventurer! I’m Mona. For over a decade, I’ve had the pleasure of helping people express themselves with beautiful, safe body art. One of the most consistently cool and edgy choices I see is the brow piercing. It has this unique ability to be both subtle and striking at the same time.

It frames your eye, adds a flash of personality, and has a rebellious streak that never really goes out of style. Whether you’ve seen it on your favorite celebrity or a cool barista in a London coffee shop, you’re here because you’re curious. And I’m here to answer every single question you have. Let’s pull back the curtain on everything you need to know before taking the plunge.

The Big Question: What’s the Eyebrow Piercing Pain Level 1-10?

Let’s get this one out of the way first, because it’s what everyone wants to know! On a pain scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is a mosquito bite and 10 is, well, something you’d rather not think about, most of my clients place a brow piercing at a 3 or 4.

Honestly, it’s more of a quick, sharp pinch than a prolonged pain. The needle is incredibly sharp and the procedure is over in seconds. Your eyes might water involuntarily—that’s a totally normal reflex! But the actual “ouch” moment is fleeting. The anticipation is almost always worse than the reality. Trust me.

So Many Choices! Different Types of Brow Piercings

You’re not just getting a “brow piercing.” You have options! This is where you can really customize your look. Here are the most popular styles I perform:

• Vertical Eyebrow Piercing: This is the classic. It runs vertically through the eyebrow, usually towards the outer edge of the eye. It’s versatile and looks fantastic on almost everyone.
• Horizontal Eyebrow Piercing: As the name suggests, this one runs horizontally along the brow line. It’s a surface piercing, so it requires a skilled piercer and the right anatomy. I get a lot of requests for horizontal brow piercing ideas, as they offer a really unique, modern look.
• Bridge Piercing: This is a horizontal bar placed across the bridge of your nose, between your eyes. It’s technically a surface piercing and not through the brow itself, but it’s in the same family of bold, eye-framing mods.
• Anti-Eyebrow Piercing: This is a surface piercing placed on the upper cheekbone, just below the eye. It mirrors the placement of a standard brow piercing, hence the name. It’s a daring and beautiful choice.

Weighing It Out: Eyebrow Piercing Pros and Cons

Every decision has its ups and downs. A new piercing is a commitment, so let’s be real about it. Here’s a straightforward breakdown to help you decide if it’s right for you.

The Pros (Why You’ll Love It)

• Ultimate Self-Expression: It’s a fantastic way to showcase your unique style.
• It’s Eye-Catching: It draws attention to your eyes, one of your most expressive features.
• Relatively Low Pain: As we discussed, it’s one of the less painful piercings you can get.
• Versatile Jewelry: From simple barbells to gem-studded rings, the jewelry options are endless.

The Cons (Things to Consider)

• Risk of Snagging: It’s on your face. You have to be mindful when washing your face, doing your hair, or pulling a sweater over your head.
• Potential for Scarring: If you decide to remove it, a small scar may remain. Proper aftercare minimizes this.
• Migration & Rejection: Because it’s often a surface piercing, there’s a higher chance your body might push the jewelry out over time. This is why choosing an expert piercer is non-negotiable.

The Piercing Process: What to Expect on the Day

Walking into a studio can be intimidating, so let me walk you through it. First, you’ll fill out some paperwork. Then, you and I (or your chosen piercer) will have a chat. We’ll discuss placement and jewelry.

I’ll clean the area thoroughly and mark the entry and exit points with a surgical marker. You’ll get to look in the mirror and approve the spot. Once you give the thumbs-up, I’ll have you take a deep breath in, and on the exhale, I’ll perform the piercing with a single-use, sterilized needle. The jewelry is inserted immediately, the area is cleaned again, and that’s it! You’re done. The whole thing takes just a few minutes.

Let’s Talk Money: How Much Does a Brow Piercing Cost?

This is a big one. The cost can vary wildly depending on a few key factors. In a major city like New York or Sydney, you can expect to pay anywhere from $40 to $80 USD for the piercing service itself. This price usually includes the basic, implant-grade titanium starter jewelry.

Factors that influence the price include:

• Studio Reputation: Highly experienced, top-tier artists in premium locations will charge more. It’s worth it.
• Location: A studio in downtown Dubai will have different overheads than one in a smaller town.
• Jewelry Choice: If you opt for a piece with genuine gemstones or solid gold, the price will go up significantly.

My advice? Don’t bargain-hunt for a piercing. You’re paying for skill, safety, and peace of mind. A cheap piercing is the most expensive one you can get if it leads to complications.

The Healing Journey: Brow Piercing Healing Time & Aftercare

Patience is your best friend here. The average brow piercing healing time is between 2 to 4 months. During this period, your body is working hard to build a new layer of skin (a fistula) through the piercing. Your job is to keep it clean and leave it alone.

Step-by-Step Brow Piercing Aftercare Instructions

• Clean Twice Daily: Use a sterile saline wound wash. You can buy this at any pharmacy. Spray it directly on the piercing or apply it with a clean, non-woven gauze.
• Gently Pat Dry: Use a fresh paper towel to gently pat the area dry. Bath towels can harbor bacteria and snag the jewelry.
• Hands Off!: Do not twist, turn, or play with the jewelry. Your hands carry germs. Let your body do its thing.

What to Avoid During Healing

Harsh Chemicals: No alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antibacterial soaps on the piercing. They are way too harsh and will irritate it.

• Cosmetics: Keep makeup, lotions, and face wash away from the piercing site.
• Swimming: Avoid pools, hot tubs, and open water, which can expose your piercing to bacteria.
• Changing Jewelry: Do not change the starter jewelry until the piercing is fully healed.

Red Flags: Signs of an Infected Brow Piercing

It’s normal to experience some redness, swelling, and a bit of crusting (lymph fluid) in the first few weeks. But it’s crucial to know the difference between normal healing and an infection. For detailed medical advice, always consult a professional, but here are some warning signs to watch for, as noted by sources like WebMD.

• Intense, throbbing pain.
• Thick, yellow, or green discharge (pus).
• A foul odor coming from the piercing.
• Excessive redness and swelling that worsens over time.
• Feeling hot to the touch around the piercing site.

If you suspect an infection, do not remove the jewelry. This can trap the infection inside. See your piercer for an assessment and consult a doctor immediately.

Choosing Your Bling: Cute Eyebrow Piercing Jewelry

Now for the fun part! Once you’re fully healed, you can explore the world of cute eyebrow piercing jewelry. The most common styles for a brow piercing are:

• Curved Barbells: These are the most common starter jewelry. They fit the natural curve of your brow perfectly. We offer a huge selection of implant-grade titanium curved barbells with simple balls or dazzling gems.
• Captive Bead Rings (CBRs) & Hoops: A ring can be a bold and beautiful choice. They come in various diameters and styles to suit your look.
• Materials Matter: Stick to high-quality, body-safe materials. Implant-grade titanium is hypoallergenic and my top recommendation. 14k or 18k solid gold (not plated!) is also a fantastic, luxurious option.

Finding a Pro: The Hunt for “Brow Piercing Shops Near Me”

A quick Google search for “brow piercing shops near me” will give you a list, but how do you choose? This is the most important decision you’ll make.

I once had a client come to me from another city to fix a poorly placed piercing. They had chosen the cheapest option and the angle was all wrong, causing constant irritation. We had to remove it, let it heal, and re-pierce it correctly. It’s a story I share often because it highlights the value of a true professional.

Here’s your checklist:

• Check Their Portfolio: Look for clear, well-lit photos of healed brow piercings. Do they look straight and healthy?
• Read Reviews: See what past clients are saying about their experience, especially regarding cleanliness and professionalism.
• Look for Certification: In places like the US and Europe, look for piercers who are members of the Association of Professional Piercers (APP). It’s a sign of commitment to safety and education.
• Visit the Studio: Is it clean? Do they have an autoclave for sterilization? Do they use single-use needles? Ask questions! A good piercer will be happy to answer them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I get a brow piercing if I wear glasses?

Absolutely! Just bring your glasses to the appointment. A good piercer will mark the placement to ensure the jewelry doesn’t interfere with your frames.

2. Will a brow piercing make my eyebrow hair fall out?

Nope, that’s a myth. The piercing goes through the skin under the brow, not the hair follicles themselves. You can still wax, thread, or pluck around it once it’s healed.

3. How long until I can change the jewelry?

You should wait until it’s fully healed, typically 2-4 months. It’s best to have your piercer do the first jewelry change to ensure it’s ready.

4. What’s the risk of a brow piercing rejecting?

The risk is higher than with an earlobe piercing but can be minimized with proper placement by a skilled piercer, correct jewelry, and diligent aftercare. If you see the bar becoming more visible under the skin, see your piercer.

5. Can I hide my brow piercing for work or school?

Once healed, you can use a clear or flesh-toned retainer. However, you cannot use a retainer in a fresh piercing, so you’ll need to be able to wear the initial jewelry for the full healing period.

6. What side should I get my brow piercing on?

Whichever side you want! There’s no hidden meaning. Some people choose their “favorite side” of their face or the side they part their hair on. It’s purely an aesthetic choice.

7. Does the piercing leave a bad scar?

If you take care of it and remove it properly, you’ll likely be left with a very small, dot-like scar that is often barely noticeable.

8. Can I sleep on my brow piercing?

You should try your best not to, especially during the initial healing phase. Sleeping on it can cause irritation, swelling, and may even shift the angle of the piercing. A travel pillow can be a lifesaver here!

9. What is the standard gauge for a brow piercing?

The most common size is 16 gauge (1.2mm). This is thick enough to be stable but still delicate-looking.

10. Is a brow piercing permanent?

The hole can close up if you remove the jewelry, especially if it’s a newer piercing. If it’s been healed for years, the hole may shrink but not close completely.

My Final Thoughts

A brow piercing is an amazing way to add a little edge and a lot of personality to your look. It’s a statement of confidence. While it requires a few months of dedicated care, the result is a stunning piece of self-expression that you’ll love for years to come.

The key to a happy, healthy piercing is research, a fantastic piercer, and following aftercare to the letter. You’ve got this!

Ready to Take the Next Step?

I hope this guide has empowered you with the knowledge to make a great decision. Now, it’s time for action!

• Explore Our Collection: Browse our curated selection of high-quality, implant-grade titanium and 14k gold eyebrow piercing jewelry to find your perfect first piece.
• Read More Tips: Check out our blog for more expert advice on piercing aftercare and styling.
• Join the Community: Follow us on Instagram for daily inspiration and share your piercing journey with us! We love seeing how you style your look.