October 07, 2024

What Is a Third-Eye Piercing? Types, Meaning, Danger, Cost, Pain, Healing, Jewelry

Fast Facts

Placement: It sits above the bridge of the nose.
Cost: $50-$100.
Healing time: 3 to 8 months to heal fully.
Jewelry: Microdermals, surface bars, and curved barbells.
Risks: Rejection, scars, infections.
Note: It is a temporary piercing.

Third-Eye piercings are a bold way to stand out from the crowd. Although they are still relatively uncommon, they are gaining popularity. If you are considering getting pierced, it's important to understand the background of this unique look.

Following is some information about Third-Eye piercings and additional considerations to think about before booking your piercing appointment.

What Is a Third-Eye Piercing?

A Third-Eye piercing is a unique and edgy body modification that sits above the bridge of the nose. It is also known as a forehead dermal piercing or a vertical bridge piercing .

Types of Third-Eye Piercings

While the placement of this piercing usually lies above the bridge of the nose, there are a few variations of this look. If you need help deciding which to choose, a professional piercer should be able to explain each option more thoroughly so you can select your favorite look.

1. Microdermal Piercing

A Third-Eye dermal piercing (also called the microdermal or anchor piercing) is the most prevalent option. It is done by inserting a needle in the skin and then carefully positioning the jewelry with a dermal anchor.

As the skin heals, it heals over the anchor, which secures the jewelry in place. The visible part of the jewelry screws onto the anchor.

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2. Third-Eye Surface Piercing (Vertical Third-Eye Piercing)

A vertical Third-Eye piercing is a variation of this look in which the jewelry is placed vertically between the eyebrows above the bridge of the nose. This piercing uses a surface barbell with both ends of the jewelry visible.

It is also called a Third-Eye surface piercing because it places a surface bar under the skin. The entrance and exit points lie close together on the skin's surface. This technique gives the wearer a double-pierced look and requires a barbell that sits flat against the skin.

Third-Eye surface piercings are less common than Third-Eye dermal piercings because they have a higher rejection rate.

3. Double Third-Eye Piercing

A double Third-Eye piercing is similar to a surface or vertical Third-Eye piercing, though it features two separate piercings side by side.

Third-Eye Piercing Meaning

This piercing corresponds with the third-eye chakra, which is the sixth primary chakra and the center of psychic abilities and intuition. It is thought to open and activate this powerful chakra and bring spiritual peace to the wearer.

Is a Third-Eye Piercing Temporary?

Because Third-Eye piercings are typically considered surface piercings, they are long-term temporary piercings.

Most Third-Eye piercings will eventually reject regardless of the type of jewelry used, but it may take several months or even years before this occurs. Once rejected or removed, Third-Eye piercings will usually leave a noticeable scar behind.

Is a Third-Eye Piercing Dangerous?

Any piercing comes with certain risks. However, a Third-Eye piercing is no more risky than any other piercing. Some risks may include scarring, rejection, embedding, tearing, nerve damage or excessive bleeding. Surface bars may be at higher risk of rejection.

Cost for Third-Eye Piercing

The cost of any piercing depends on several factors, including the piercer's experience and the location of the piercing shop. This piercing typically costs between $50 and $100, plus the expense of the jewelry.

Do Third-Eye Piercings Hurt?

Microdermal piercings tend to hurt more than surface piercings because you feel more pressure during the piercing process. A surface bar tends to hurt less because the piercer goes straight through your skin, and there is an entry and exit point with little pressure.

That being said, everyone's level of pain tolerance is different. A piercing that may be excruciating to one person could be relatively painless to another.

Third-Eye Piercing Healing

Third-Eye piercings will take 3 to 8 months to heal fully. Healing time depends on whether you follow all aftercare instructions or if complications arise.

Avoid touching the jewelry during the first several weeks unless you're cleaning the piercing. It's important to keep the area around the piercing clean and dry. Do not change the jewelry out until it is completely healed.

Third Eye Piercing Cultural Appropriation

Are Third-Eye piercings offensive? There is some debate about whether Third-Eye piercings are offensive to some cultures. Whether or not they are viewed as cultural appropriation is subjective and depends on your personal beliefs.

The Third-Eye piercing got its name because the placement aligns with the Third-Eye chakra, an important spiritual belief among many religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism and Taoism. This chakra taps into the unconscious mind when activated, leading to enlightenment and spiritual insight.

Practicing Hindus place a "tilaka" between the eyebrows as a representation of the Third-Eye chakra. They may wear it daily, for rites of passage or for special religious or spiritual occasions. For these reasons, some people view Third-Eye piercings as offensive, especially if the wearer is not a practicing Hindu, Buddhist or Taoist.

However, others see Third-Eye piercings as a form of self-expression. If you are considering this piercing, prepare to have open conversations with others who may have opinions that differ from yours.

Third-Eye Piercing Jewelry

What is the best jewelry for Third Eye piercings? Third-Eye piercing jewelry typically includes microdermals, surface bars, and curved barbells (banana barbells).

Microdermals create a single-point piercing with decorative tops, such as gemstones or flat disks, for a bold, eye-catching look. Surface bars minimize rejection by lying flat against the skin.

While deciding whether to get a Third-Eye piercing, you should consider the types of jewelry available. Remember that the piercing method and type of jewelry you wear may affect healing, and some options are more prone to rejection.

1. Microdermals (Dermal Anchors)

Microdermal with abalone shells made of titanium dermal anchor 14G $25.9, SHOP NOW.

Microdermals (dermal anchors) are preferable for Third Eye piercings. They are placed beneath the skin, creating the illusion of a raised gem or jewel. Microdermals offer a distinctive look and are the least likely jewelry option to reject.

Size

Microdermals used for Third Eye piercings are usually 14 gauge (1.6mm) with a 6 to 8 millimeter (1/4"-5/16") long base. Most people choose top sizes between 3 and 5 millimeters. The typical length for dermal implants is 2 millimeters.

2. Surface Bars

Surface bar jewelry with flat discs titanium surface barbell 14G cute surface tragus piercing anti eyebrow $19.9, SHOP NOW.

Surface bars are staple-shaped pieces of jewelry that go through the skin and into the tissue. They are preferable for areas where the skin lies flat. Surface bars create the illusion of a double piercing. However, they come with a higher risk of rejection.

Note: Flat surface bars are preferred compared to round surface bars as there might not be enough tissue to fully cover the bar of the latter.

Size

Most surface bars used for Third-Eye piercings measure 12 gauge (2mm) to 14 gauge (1.6mm). The recommended length is between 1/2" and 5/8" (12mm and 16mm), depending on your preferences and facial structure.

3. Curved Bars (Banan Barbells)

Curved bars are similar to surface bars except that they curve upwards at the ends instead of sitting flat against the skin. While some people may receive third-eye piercings with a curved bar, it is a less popular option since the ends may tug at the skin.

Size

Curved bars used for Third-Eye piercings are similar in measurement to surface bars. The typical gauges are 12 gauge (2mm) and 14 gauge (1.6mm), with length options around 1/2" to 5/8" (12mm to 16mm).

Recommended Materials for Third-Eye Piercing Jewelry

1. Titanium: About $20-$40

Dermal anchor piercing with natural green moss agate 14G $24.9, SHOP NOW.

Titanium has a reputation for being the best metal for piercings for many reasons. It is lightweight, hypoallergenic, durable, nickel-free, non-corrosive, and won’t tarnish.

Its non-porous nature reduces places bacteria can hide, promoting healing.

Titanium is also hypoallergenic, meaning it is less likely to cause allergic reactions. Titanium is nickel-free.

Its high density-to-strength ratio means your jewelry is very durable.

A lower density also makes Titanium lightweight, a big plus in many user's eyes. Finally, the metal comes in many colors because you can anodize it.

The only real downside to titanium jewelry is that you will pay more for all those positive traits. Shop for implant-grade titanium with designations like ASTM F-136, ASTM F-67, or ISO 5832-3.

2. Solid Gold: About $40-$200

This metal will not rust or tarnish. It is also easy to decorate and shape. The added alloys in 18k, and especially 14k, make them more durable than 24k gold pieces.

One downside to gold jewelry is the price tag, which is expensive. Another concern will be that the metal is soft, making it susceptible to bends, breaks, and gouges. Gold can also be heavy, especially with more pure karat ratings.

3. Surgical Steel: About $5-$30

Surgical steel is nonreactive. However, even surgical-grade steel contains small amounts of nickel that could cause allergic reactions in those with skin sensitivities. Choose a different option if you are concerned about irritation or a nickel allergy.

Steel combines iron and carbon, improving its strength and ability to resist fracturing.

One of the pros most people cite for steel jewelry pieces is the lower price point. Steel is also a durable option. These pieces are low maintenance because the steel does not corrode, rust, or tarnish.

Weight is the top complaint for those using steel jewelry pieces. Steel can be less comfortable if worn in piercings for long periods.

Third-Eye Piercing Problems

The most common problems associated with Third-Eye piercings are scaring and rejection.

Rejection

Because third-eye piercings are typically considered surface piercings, they are long-term temporary piercings. Most Third-Eye piercings will eventually reject regardless of the type of jewelry used, but it may take several months or even years before this occurs.

Scaring

Once rejected or removed, Third-Eye piercings will usually leave a scar behind. Because of its prominent placement on the forehead, it's important to note that the scar will be quite noticeable.

Third-Eye Piercing Removal

Do not remove a Third-Eye piercing on your own if you have a dermal piercing. Make an appointment with your piercer or ask your doctor for assistance with removal. Removing it on your own comes with many risks, including infection, tissue damage and other complications. Your piercer or doctor can use a local anesthetic to ease discomfort and remove the piercing in a sanitized environment.

If you have a surface bar, you should visit the piercing shop for removal. Your piercer should be able to remove it easily using standard piercing tools. After thoroughly sanitizing and drying the area with sterile gauze, your piercer will unscrew the tops of the jewelry and then gently slide them out from under the skin. After removal, it is important to keep the area clean as it heals.

The time it takes for your Third-Eye piercing to close up varies depending on how old the piercing is and your anatomy. If your piercing is newer, it may close relatively quickly. Older piercings are less likely to close completely.

Because of its prominent placement on the forehead, it's important to note that it will likely leave a noticeable scar once removed.

Aftercare

Take care to avoid contaminating the piercing.
Avoid touching it or applying makeup very close to it.
Avoid getting in the water that might be dirty.
Clean your piercing twice per day using a saline solution made for wound cleaning or soap and water to prevent infection.
Avoid ointments as they prevent necessary air circulation.
And of course, make sure to avoid snagging on clothes or towels.
Wear loose clothing. Avoid wearing tight clothing or clothing that may rub against the piercing, as this can cause irritation and slow down the healing process.
Use hypoallergenic jewelry like implant-grade titanium and 14- or 18-karat gold. Surgical-grade steel may contain small amounts of nickel that could cause allergic reactions.
Don't move the piercing unless you're cleaning it. Pulling on a piercing early in healing is painful, but it also can get in the way of healing or damage the piercing itself.
Wait until your piercing heals before changing out your jewelry.
Watch for potential signs of infection and consult your piercer or doctor if it becomes infected.

You should ensure you get pierced by someone experienced and reliable who utilizes the right cleaning and sterilization procedures. You’ll also need to choose high-quality jewelry that you aren’t allergic to. After you get your piercing, be sure to follow all instructions from your piercer.

How to Clean Third-Eye Piercings?

It is recommended to use sterile saline that you buy from the store, rather than homemade saline, for cleaning your piercings. Homemade saline may be too salty for delicate piercing sites, leading to dryness and delayed healing.

Using mild, fragrance-free soap and water to clean your piercing site is also an option.

If you prefer homemade salt solution. You can start by mixing 1/2 teaspoon of non-iodized salt with one cup of distilled or boiled (for at least 20 minutes) water. You may choose to use less of the salt mixture like 1/4 to 1/8 teaspoon if you want a weaker solution that’s less likely to burn or sting. Stir the solution until it dissolves.

If you see signs of infection, you can also use antiseptic solutions, such as betadine, isopropyl alcohol, or diluted hydrogen peroxide. However, avoid using them for daily cleaning as they can damage cells.

Then proceed with the following steps to clean your piercing:

Soak a cotton ball, a paper towel, or a non-plush cloth with the solution. Avoid fabrics that could snag and pull the jewelry or leave fibers behind. Gently saturate the piercing and cleanse it. Don't remove the jewelry!
If you have a sterile saline wound wash that you buy from stores, then spay it while healing.
Ensure you cleanse the piercing of any discharge or crusty material.
Take clean gauze or cotton swabs and pat the area dry.

Your piercer should give you detailed instructions on how to keep your piercing clean once it has been placed.

To Conclude

If you have decided to get a Third-Eye piercing, choose a reputable piercing studio that prioritizes cleanliness and the safety of the piercing professionals and their clients. By putting health and safety first, you will minimize your risk of any potential complications and enjoy your new look for years to come.