A labret piercing is a facial piercing between the lower lip and the chin. This is typically done at a point equidistant from the corners of the mouth. This type of piercing can feature a hoop that wraps around the lower lip, a straight piercing with an ornamental external tip that shows just below the lip or a barbell-type piercing like those used in tongue piercings. Although all the potential dangers as other piercings are inherent, there are social and cosmetic benefits to wearing facial jewelry like the labret piercing.
Cosmetic Benefits
Alone or in conjunction with other accessories, labret jewelry affects the symmetry of the face and directs a viewer's attention to the lips and chin. It can be used either to accentuate these features or, as is done with facial hair in men, change perceptions of the shape of the face to achieve a desired aesthetic or to detract attention from a scar or other unsightly feature.
Image Benefits
Individuals seeking to establish an image or public persona outside of the mainstream or cultural norms may employ labret piercings. Professions in which labret piercings add to the mystique include rock musician, tattoo artist and professional piercer. Women entering into certain fringe modeling careers in which appearance of belonging to a subculture is a benefit also employ labret piercings.
Social Inclusion
Many social groups and subcultures consider facial piercings a part of their ritual of inclusion. Punk, goth and emo fashion frequently features the labret piercing. The image, social capital and credibility of a person within certain skateboarding groups and anarchists is also enhanced among other members by labret piercings.
Assertion of Independence
Many young people find tattoos and unusual piercings useful in asserting their independence from their parents, guardians or the social institutions in which they were raised. A labret piercing, which adds to an individual's image of rebellion and may invoke negative reactions from authority figures, is one of many body modifications that serves this purpose.
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