Snake Eyes Piercing: Why It's Dangerous and Why I Don't Do It in My Studio

The " snake eyes " piercing, also known as "snake eyes", is a type of piercing that passes horizontally across the tip of the tongue. A single piece of jewelry, usually a curved bar, is inserted that pierces the two longitudinal muscles of the tongue. The final effect resembles two small eyes, hence the name.

This piercing is becoming very popular on social media, thanks to its particular and spectacular appearance, but behind the captivating appearance there are serious health risks . For this reason, in my studio I have consciously chosen not to perform the snake eyes piercing . This decision does not arise from fashion or personal opinions, but

from a professional, ethical and health evaluation.

The Risks of Snake Eyes Piercing

1. Damage to teeth and gums

The tongue is a constantly moving area, and the jewelry inserted in a snake eyes piercing ends up constantly hitting the teeth and gums. This can cause:

• Dental chipping

• Fractures

• Gum recession

• Enamel erosion

Over time, even a slight rubbing can lead to permanent damage. In many cases, those who have this type of piercing find themselves months or years later with damaged, sensitive or reconstructed teeth.

2. Impaired muscle function of the tongue

The snake eyes piercing crosses two muscles that are essential for the mobility of the tongue. This can lead to:

• Reduction of mobility

• Difficulty in phonation

• Swallowing problems

• Discomfort or pain during oral activity

The tongue is not designed to function with a “bar” connecting the muscles at the tip: interfering with this anatomy can create functional problems and even chronic disorders.

3. Risk of rejection and infection

This type of piercing has a very high rejection rate, because it is performed in an area that is not designed to accommodate a foreign body. Furthermore, since the tongue is highly vascularized, there is a high probability of:

• Bacterial infections

• Extreme swelling

• Ulcers or internal lesions

• Difficulty in healing

A tongue infection can become a serious issue in a short time, also because the area is directly connected to the circulatory and lymphatic systems.

It is not prohibited, but it is highly discouraged

To date, in Italy there is no law that officially prohibits the snake eyes piercing. However, many professional piercers and associations in the sector strongly advise against its execution .

Some studios, in order to follow the trend, continue to propose it without adequately assessing the risks. Personally, I consider this practice unethical: performing a piercing that can permanently damage the client's health goes against every principle of professionalism.

Why I Don't Do This in My Studio

My choice not to do snake eyes piercings comes from a specific responsibility: to protect the health of my clients. My goal is to offer beautiful, personalized piercings, but above all safe and sustainable over time .

I prefer to explain the reasons for my refusal rather than risk creating long-term damage to those who trust me. There are many other options for tongue piercings (such as the vertical, or the classic central) that are aesthetically valid and much less risky .

If you have any doubts or want professional advice on which piercing can enhance you without putting your health at risk, I will be happy to help you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it true that snake eyes piercing is banned?

No, there is no law that prohibits it in Italy, but many professional piercers refuse to perform it for health reasons.

Does the snake eye piercing heal like other tongue piercings?

No. Healing is more difficult, longer and subject to complications, precisely because of the unnatural position of the jewel.

Does it hurt a lot?

Pain depends on the personal threshold, but the problem is not just the initial pain: it is the continued discomfort that is felt in the days (and months) that follow.

Can I find a piercer who does this anyway?

Yes, but I invite you to think about why so many serious professionals refuse it. If a piercer accepts without explaining the risks, it is a warning sign.

Are there safer alternatives?

Absolutely. A center tongue piercing, vertical tongue piercing, or other internal jewelry can give you an interesting look without compromising your teeth or functionality.

If you are thinking about a tongue piercing, come and talk about it in the studio: I will guide you in the choice that is best for you, with all the information you need to make an informed decision.