Angel Fangs Piercing Guide: Pain Healing Time Cost and Aftercare

What Is an Angel Fangs Piercing?

Angel Fangs piercing is a rare and dramatic lip piercing style involving two vertical piercings on the upper lip, often placed close to or just inside the corners of the mouth. The name comes from the fang-like appearance of the jewellery when worn, usually with curved or straight barbells. This piercing offers a mirrored look to “snake bites” on the lower lip and is sometimes called upper lip verticals or a variation of angel bites – but unlike angel bites, angel fangs go through the upper lip tissue rather than beside it.

How Is an Angel Fangs Piercing Done?

Each side of the upper lip is cleaned and marked carefully to ensure balance and symmetry. Using a sterile hollow needle, the piercer makes a vertical puncture from the lip surface upward, typically exiting on the underside of the top lip or just below the philtrum line. Curved barbells or labret studs are inserted immediately. Since two piercings are performed, the process takes a little longer than a standard lip piercing and requires precision to avoid alignment issues or uneven pressure.

How Painful Is an Angel Fangs Piercing?

Angel Fangs piercings are usually rated as moderate to high in terms of pain, as they go through the thick and muscular upper lip. Each piercing feels like a sharp pinch followed by deep pressure. Swelling, tenderness and limited upper lip movement are expected for the first few days. Talking and eating may feel awkward at first but becomes easier as the swelling eases.

How to Prepare for an Angel Fangs Piercing

Eat a light meal and stay hydrated before your appointment. Brush your teeth and rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash to keep the mouth clean. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and blood thinners 24 hours prior. Arrive with a clean face and no lip or skin products. Choose a highly experienced piercer who has worked with complex lip placements, and be prepared for extra swelling and a longer healing period.

Cleaning and Aftercare

Healing typically takes 6 to 10 weeks, but complete settling may take a bit longer due to the movement of the lips. Clean the outside of each piercing with a saline solution twice daily, and rinse your mouth with alcohol-free mouthwash after eating or drinking. Avoid kissing, spicy foods, and excessive lip movement during the early healing phase. Sleep on your back and be mindful when brushing your teeth.

Cost Expectations

In the UK, Angel Fangs piercings usually cost between £60 and £100, depending on the studio and jewellery selected. Titanium or surgical steel curved barbells are ideal for initial healing. As you're getting two piercings, this style is generally priced similarly to paired lip piercings like angel or snake bites. Aftercare products may be included or available at an additional cost.

Are There Any Restrictions?

Studios generally require clients to be 16+ with IDfor facial piercings, but some may set 18+ for complex placements like Angel Fangs. Under-18s may need parental consent. Not everyone is suited to this piercing – those with thinner upper lips, gum recession or dental concerns should speak with their piercer first. If you play wind instruments or need full lip mobility for work or speech, consider whether the placement will affect your lifestyle.

What to Expect During the Appointment

After a consultation and marking, your piercer will perform each vertical piercing using a sterile needle, inserting the jewellery immediately after each one. Expect swelling and discomfort for a few days. Ice packs and soft foods will help ease recovery. Your piercer will go over cleaning and provide detailed aftercare guidance. You may also be advised to return for a check-up or to downsize the jewellery once the swelling reduces.

Final Thought

Angel Fangs piercings are bold, unconventional and full of edge – perfect for those who want a lip look that truly stands out. They require commitment to aftercare, but the result is a striking and symmetrical feature that brings a powerful aesthetic to the upper lip. If you're ready for something different and dramatic, Angel Fangs could be your next favourite piercing.