Ashley Piercing Scar: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

If you’re considering an edgy new lip piercing, the Ashley may have caught your eye. This trendy piercing gained popularity in the 90s as an alternative to the classic lip ring. But unlike a traditional lip piercing, the Ashley enters the skin under the lip rather than piercing the lip itself.

This unique placement gives it a subtle, minimalist look. But it also makes it one of the trickier piercings to heal. Before you decide, it’s important to understand exactly what this delicate piercing entails.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Ashley piercings:

• What is an Ashley piercing?
• Pain level and procedure
• Healing time and aftercare
• Risk of scarring
• Treating infections
• Suitable jewelry types

Let’s start with the basics.

I. What Exactly is an Ashley Piercing?

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An Ashley piercing is a surface piercing placed under the center of the bottom lip, right below the vermilion border. This is the edge where the lip skin meets the interior mucous membrane of the mouth. Unlike a traditional lip ring that penetrates through the lip tissue itself, the Ashley enters the skin beneath at a diagonal angle. The jewelry sits flush, giving it a very minimal, subtle profile.

This piercing is named after Elayne Angel, a pioneering piercer in the 90s who went by the name “Ashley.” She helped popularize this new style of subtle lip piercing that became a trendy alternative.

II. What Are the Risks of Scarring with an Ashley Piercing?

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One of the biggest risks of an Ashley piercing is scarring, more so than traditional lip piercings. Because it passes through thin facial skin rather than the thicker lip tissue, scarring is very common. However, the degree of scarring varies based on:

• Genetic propensity for scarring – some people scar more than others
• Jewelry quality – well-fitted implant-grade metals reduce damage
• Aftercare – gentle cleaning without trauma minimizes risks
• Sun exposure – sunlight can make scars more pronounced

With diligent aftercare, many people have minimal scarring that is hardly noticeable. But some degree of permanent scarring is likely. In some cases, scarring may be significant. If scarring is a major concern for you, an Ashley may not be the best option. Discuss this risk with your piercer.

III. What’s the Pain Level for an Ashley Piercing?

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Pain is subjective, but most people describe the Ashley as moderately painful. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most painful, it typically rates around 5-7.

It involves a sharp pinch or sting as the needle passes through the delicate skin. The area may throb or ache for a few hours afterward. But the actual piercing takes just a split second. Those with a high pain tolerance may barely feel it. But if you have very sensitive skin or a low threshold, it may be closer to a 7 or 8 on the pain scale. Using a needle instead of a piercing gun can help make it slightly less painful.

Pain tolerance also varies based on your menstrual cycle, stress levels, and other factors. The piercing procedure is quick, so the pain is fleeting. It’s the healing process that requires more patience and care.

IV. What’s the Healing and Aftercare Like for an Ashley Piercing?

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An Ashley piercing takes approximately 3-6 months to heal fully. While this is quicker than cartilage or other oral piercings, healing requires consistency and patience.

For the first 2 weeks, be vigilant about proper aftercare:

• Wash hands thoroughly before touching the area to prevent infection.
• Use a sterile saline spray to clean the piercing twice daily. Gently dry with a paper towel. Avoid picking at crusties or scabs, which can remove healing tissue.
• Rinse mouth with an alcohol-free antibacterial oral rinse after eating to prevent food debris buildup.
• Take over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Do not smoke, drink alcohol excessively, or use lip makeup or balms during initial healing.

After 2 weeks, continue cleaning the piercing twice daily with saline spray. Avoid submerging it in bodies of water, which can introduce bacteria. After 6 weeks, you can ease up on cleaning to just once daily.

But continue being gentle with the piercing for 3-6 full months. Avoid oral contact or friction that can disrupt healing. Downsize the jewelry after 2 months once the initial swelling has resolved.

V. How Should You Treat an Infected Ashley Piercing?

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Oral piercings carry a higher risk of infection than ear piercings. Signs of infection in an Ashley piercing include: 

• Increasing redness, heat, and swelling around the site
• Green, yellow, or foul-smelling discharge from the piercing
• Throbbing pain that persists for more than a few days
• Fever or flu-like symptoms

If these symptoms develop, see your piercer or doctor right away. Oral infections should not be taken lightly. You may need antibiotic treatment to resolve it.

At home, you can support healing an infected piercing by:

• Cleaning 2-3 times daily with sterile saline spray
• Applying warm compresses to the area for 5-10 minutes
• Taking over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen for swelling and pain

Do not remove jewelry as this can seal the infection inside. Seek prompt medical help if symptoms persist beyond 2-3 days of home care. Catching oral infections early is crucial.

VI. What Jewelry is Recommended for an Ashley Piercing?

Always opt for implant-grade metals approved for long-term wear in initial piercings. Good choices include : 

• Titanium (Ti6Al4V ELI) – hypoallergenic, nickel-free, and lightweight
• Niobium – non-reactive, nickel-free, and corrosion-resistant
• Solid 14k – 18k yellow or white gold – resists tarnishing
• Avoid low-quality mystery metals that can irritate or infect new piercings. Also crucial is choosing proper jewelry shapes:
• A flat-back labret stud with an internally threaded post – minimizes friction
• 14g-16g in diameter to accommodate facial tissue

Once healed after 6+ months, you can wear different decorative ends like gems or shapes. Continue avoiding cheap plated jewelry or unsafe materials like acrylic. Consult your piercer about suitable long-term jewelry for your Ashley piercing.

Think about your comfort level and personal taste while selecting jewelry. High-grade materials are advised to reduce the possibility of discomfort or allergic responses, such as titanium, surgical stainless steel, or biocompatible polymers.

VII. Should You Get an Ashley Piercing? Weighing the Pros and Cons.

If you’re considering an Ashley piercing, weigh these potential pros and cons first:

Pros

• Unique, edgy look that makes a subtle statement
• Less damage to gums and teeth than traditional lip ring
• Usually, faster healing than some oral or cartilage piercings
• Allows for smaller gauge jewelry than lip rings

Cons

• Higher risk of scarring than many other facial piercings
• More difficult to heal than ear, nostril or traditional lip piercings
• Potential temporary speech impediment during initial healing
• Some degree of permanent scarring likely even if removed

So is an Ashley right for you? If you’re willing to commit to careful aftercare and accept potential scarring, it can be a feminine, delicate lip piercing option. But for those very concerned about scarring, a traditional lip ring may be a safer choice.

Discuss all the pros, cons, and risks with your chosen qualified piercing professional. And consider whether you’re ready for the commitment of a longer healing period.

Conclusion 

In summary, Ashley piercings make a subtle statement with their delicate appearance. But the, surface piercing carries higher risks of complications like scarring if not properly cared for. Set realistic expectations, practice diligent aftercare, and consult a reputable piercer if you pursue this unique piercing. With patience and care, you can reduce chances of problems.