Dermal piercing on the side of the face has become a popular way to add subtle edge and dimension to your appearance. This style involves an anchor placed under the skin with only the jewelry head visible, creating a streamlined look that frames the cheek and jawline.
When planned with a professional piercer and cared for properly, side face dermal piercings can suit many aesthetics, from soft everyday looks to bold statement placements. The following sections outline key styles, placement considerations, aftercare steps, and common questions.
Popular Style Options
Choosing the right style helps you align the piercing with your personal taste and facial structure.
| Style | Placement Area | Jewelry Type | Visual Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Dermal Anchor | Cheekbone, near the side front hairline | Single stud with flush base | Minimalist, blends subtly |
| Side Cheek Row | Linear line along the jaw or cheek | Multiple small studs or pins | Structured, modern aesthetic |
| Temple Dermal | Temple area, above the ear | Captive bead ring or small stud | Edgy, eye-catching framing |
| Jawline Accent | Along the jawline near the chin | Barbell or flat-back stud | Sharp, defined silhouette |
Ideal Placement Considerations
Placement plays a major role in comfort, healing, and overall appearance when getting a dermal piercing on the side of the face.
Anatomy and Visibility
Choose areas with sufficient soft tissue and avoid thin skin over prominent bone. Consider how the jewelry interacts with your expressions, hair, and collarlines in daily movements.
Professional Consultation
A skilled piercer can assess your anatomy, suggest flattering angles, and recommend jewelry sizes that suit the side of your face. Clear communication ensures the design complements your features rather than competing with them.
Healing and Aftercare Routine
Healing typically ranges from three months to a full year, depending on placement and your body’s response.
Daily Care Steps
Follow your piercer’s instructions, which often include cleaning with saline solution, avoiding unnecessary touching, and keeping the area dry and clean. Choose non-irritating skincare and hair products to minimize buildup around the jewelry.
Activity Adjustments
During healing, avoid pressure on the site from headphones, hats, or sleeping directly on the piercing. Shield the area from excessive sun, wind, and contaminants, especially in active or outdoor settings.
Style and Jewelry Options
Once healed, you can experiment with jewelry changes to refresh your look while maintaining the dermal anchor structure.
Metal and Material Choices
Implant-grade titanium, solid gold, and niobium reduce the risk of irritation and allergies. Ensure stones or coatings are body-safe and that the jewelry design aligns with your long-term style preferences.
Design Flexibility
Side face placements allow creative combinations, such as pairing a single anchor with minimal studs or creating a curated line of dermals along the jaw. Work with your piercer to plan a cohesive layout that can evolve with your wardrobe and mood.
Risks and Safety Measures
Understanding potential risks helps you make informed decisions and reduce complications.
Common Concerns
These include infection, rejection, migration, and scarring. Choosing a licensed piercer, using proper technique, and committing to aftercare significantly lowers these risks and supports better healing outcomes.
Prep and Protection
Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, harsh soaps, or aggressive cleaning around the site. Follow any aftercare guidelines tailored to your specific placement and anatomy.
Practical Recommendations for Side Face Dermals
- Consult a professional piercer to choose a safe, flattering spot on the side of your face.
- Follow a consistent aftercare routine, including gentle cleaning and avoiding irritants.
- Protect the piercing during healing by avoiding tight accessories and harsh chemicals.
- Plan jewelry styles that match your long-term aesthetic and daily comfort.
- Monitor your healing progress and seek professional advice if concerns arise.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I get a dermal piercing on the side of my face if I wear glasses?
Yes, many people with glasses choose side face dermal piercings, but placement and jewelry size must accommodate the frame. Inform your piercer about your glasses so they can recommend a location and stud length that prevent pressure on the healing area.
How long does it take to heal compared to ear piercings?
Side face dermal piercings typically take several months to a year to fully heal, often longer than standard earlobe piercings. Healing time depends on your aftercare, your skin type, and the exact location on the side of the face.
Will this type of piercing affect my speech or eating habits?
Most side face placements do not interfere with speaking or eating, since the jewelry is positioned away from the lips, tongue, and teeth. If you feel any changes in comfort or movement, consult your piercer to adjust jewelry size or style.
What should I do if my piercing gets irritated or infected?
Contact your piercer or a healthcare professional at the first sign of unusual redness, swelling, pain, or discharge. Avoid removing the jewelry on your own, since premature removal can trap infection or lead to more serious complications.