If you’re considering an eyebrow piercing, one of the first questions that might come to mind is: does it hurt? The short answer is that while some discomfort is expected, the pain is usually mild and very brief. Everyone experiences piercings differently, but with the right preparation and aftercare, most people find the process much less painful than they imagined.
What to Expect During the Piercing
An eyebrow piercing is typically quick and straightforward. The piercer will clean and mark the area, then use a sterile needle to create the opening before inserting the jewellery. Most people describe the feeling as a sharp pinch followed by slight pressure, lasting only a few seconds. Compared to other piercings, such as cartilage or nose piercings, the eyebrow is often considered less painful.
Factors That Affect Pain Levels
Several factors influence how much an eyebrow piercing might hurt:
- Pain tolerance – everyone’s threshold is different.
- Piercing placement – vertical piercings are common, while horizontal or surface piercings may feel slightly different.
- Piercer’s experience – a skilled professional will make the process faster and smoother.
- Technique & equipment – sterile, high-quality tools help reduce discomfort.
How Long Does the Pain Last?
The actual piercing pain only lasts a moment, often just a few seconds. Afterward, it’s normal to feel some tenderness, swelling, or slight bruising for the first week or two. With proper care, this eases quickly. Full healing generally takes 6–8 weeks, although it can be longer for some people. If you’re browsing styles during this stage, you’ll notice a wide variety of eyebrow piercing jewellery options to choose from once your piercing has healed.
Tips to Minimise Discomfort
There are ways to make the experience as smooth as possible:
- Choose a licensed, professional piercer.
- Stay hydrated and have a good meal beforehand.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and blood thinners before the appointment.
- Breathe deeply and stay relaxed during the procedure.
- Use a cold compress after to reduce swelling.
Aftercare and Healing
Taking care of your new piercing is essential for comfort and quick healing:
- Clean twice daily with sterile saline solution.
- Avoid twisting or playing with the jewellery.
- Skip heavy makeup around the area until healed.
- Be cautious when sleeping to avoid pressure on the piercing.
- Hold off on swimming in pools or the ocean until the piercing is fully healed.
Risks & Complications to Be Aware Of
While eyebrow piercings are generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential issues:
- Swelling & bruising are common but temporary.
- Infection risk increases if aftercare isn’t followed.
- Migration or rejection can happen, particularly with surface piercings.
- Scarring may occur if jewellery is removed too early or the piercing rejects.
If you notice severe pain, pus, or prolonged swelling, it’s best to seek advice from a medical professional or experienced piercer.
Final Word
Getting an eyebrow piercing does involve some pain, but it’s usually brief and manageable. For most people, the style and self-expression far outweigh the momentary discomfort. Choosing an experienced piercer and sticking to proper aftercare will make the healing process smoother and safer.