Trendy lip piercing can be done in a number of ways and one of the favorite ones is Monroe Piercing. It is called Monroe, Crawford or Madonna because it is named after the position in which these actresses had a beauty spot above their upper lip.
Monroe piercing is considered very safe because there are very few nerves in this area of your face. In about three to six weeks you get completely healed. Also, the mouth has enzymes that destroy bacteria, so the risk of an infection is also minimized.
Monroe Piercing Jewelry
Monroe piercing is popular with both men and women. It is done just above the upper lip, off center to the left, and looks great with labret rings and studs. Labrets are pierced just under the lip and above the chin. This looks quite sexy and if you choose to wear a black round stud, it will look just like the beauty mark it is named after. If you prefer to wear a gemstone, then of course it will twinkle every time you move.
Generally, a Monroe piercing can be enhanced with a 12, 16 or 18 gauge labret. You can also get a double Monroe, called the Crayfish done; here the piercing is done on both sides of the upper lip. If you wear longish barbells unlike the short ones on the Monroe piercing, it resembles the antennae of the crayfish, so that’s where it gets its name from. The popular jewelry choice for the Monroe piercing is the metal ball sometimes set with a gem.
Caring For Your Monroe Piercing
After you get your Monroe piercing done, expect some swelling in and around the lip area. Just like any other piercing, this too can get infected, so you must take care to keep your mouth and jewelry clean. This will also avoid scarring. While getting the piercing, make sure to get it done from a professional who is aware that the superior labial artery above the upper lip is not punctured.
The procedure is practically painless though you may feel a little discomfort if you have thick lips. Men are said to find it slightly more painful since their skin is tougher to pierce. If you play any wind instruments you might feel discomfort because the muscles around your mouth will be larger.
Be aware that the metal stud of the Monroe piercing jewelry can rub against your gums and teeth, damaging them. You can, however avoid this by wearing plastic labret studs.
FUNNY FACT! Did you know that Monroe piercing is the least painful body piercing because there’s very few nerves in this area of the face?