What’s on Your Lip?

Have you ever considered adorning your upper lip with a stylish and trendy piercing? If not, think about it because when you get it, everybody can’t resist holding their gaze on it.

The world of body modification has long been a canvas for expressing your identity, and the Medusa piercing is a striking example of this art form. This comprehensive guide will help you understand Medusa piercing more, from its history to aftercare. This guide has everything you must know.

The Medusa Piercing

The medusa piercing is also known as a philtrum piercing. It is a type of facial piercing located in the centre of the upper lip, directly under the septum of the nose. It has a rich history that dates back centuries. The name is derived from the Greek myth of Medusa, a Gorgon with a striking appearance. The piercing’s placement on the philtrum, the indentation above the upper lip and below the nose, is said to mimic the location of Cupid’s bow – the area where one’s lips meet when they pout. This piercing has been followed by various cultures throughout history that symbolizes beauty, strength, and individuality.

Placement and Aesthetic Appeal

As mentioned earlier, this piercing is placed on the philtrum to create a captivating appearance. Moreover, when adorned with a carefully selected piece of jewellery, such as a dainty stud or a sparkling gemstone, it highlights the natural contours of the lips and adds a touch of glamour to one’s facial features. However, the placement of this piercing requires accuracy and expertise to ensure both aesthetic harmony and safety.

Procedure and Aftercare

The medusa piercing procedure typically involves the following steps:

  • The piercer will clean and disinfect the piercing area and ask you to thoroughly rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash.
  • They will then carefully assess the anatomy for the best placement and mark the location precisely.
  • The piercer will use a forceps to gently hold the tissue and insert a sterilised hollow needle from the outside to the inside. After removing the forceps, they gently push the needle out with a taper pin.
  • Once the needle has passed through the lip, the piercer will carefully insert and secure the chosen jewellery.

Aftercare

To ensure proper healing and the risk of infection, it’s crucial to follow these aftercare guidelines:

  • Clean the piercing twice a day with a saline solution.
  • Use non-alcoholic mouthwash after every meal to avoid complications.
  • Don’t touch the piercing without washing your hands.
  • Abstain from smoking or engaging in activities that may introduce bacteria to the piercing.
  • Avoid oral contact with the jewellery during healing.
  • Be careful of your eating habits to prevent irritation or injury to the piercing.

It’s essential to follow these instructions diligently to promote healing and reduce the likelihood of complications.

Types of Jewellery for Medusa Piercings

Medusa piercings can be adorned with various types of jewellery. Still famous for medusa piercings are labret studs with a flat backplate and a decorative top, providing both style and comfort. These are considered the best option as they are comfortable to wear. However, ensuring that the jewellery is made of high-quality and hypoallergenic material is crucial to reduce irritation and complications.

Note: Before changing your jewellery for the first time, ensure it is healed completely. Consult your piercer to assess the measurement so you can choose the new jewellery wisely and with the perfect size.

Frequently asked questions:

  1. What is the pain level of medusa piercing?

 The level of pain differs from person to person and depends on persons’ tolerance level. However, people who get medusa piercing describe it as moderately painful.

  1. What is the healing time for a Medusa piercing?

It ranges from 6 to 12 weeks. However, complete healing may take longer depending on individual healing factors and how well you follow aftercare instructions.

  1. Are there any specific aftercare instructions I should follow for a Medusa piercing?

Yes, it’s crucial to clean your piercing twice a day with a saline solution and avoid touching it with dirty hands.

  1. What type of jewellery is best suited for a Medusa piercing?

A labret stud is usually recommended for a medusa piercing due to its flat back and minimal movement.

  1. What are the risks associated with getting a Medusa piercing?

Risks include infection, swelling, bleeding, and allergic reactions to jewellery materials. Poor aftercare practices can also lead to complications such as scarring and migration of the piercing.

  1. Can I change my jewellery during the healing process of a Medusa piercing?

No, it is not recommended till your piercing healed completely to prevent irritation and infection. Consult your piercer if you need clarification on changing your jewellery.

  1. How do I know if a piercer qualifies to perform a Medusa piercing?

Always do your research when looking for a reputable piercing studio with experienced and licensed piercers. Ask about their sterilisation procedures, portfolio of previous work, and certifications to ensure they meet industry standards.

  1. What to do if some complications occur after getting the medusa piercing?

Some sort of swelling is considered normal but if you notice any kind of pus or excessive swelling and is not going away even after two weeks than it is recommended to contact your piercer or a healthcare professional immediately. Avoid removing the jewellery on your own as it can trap infection. Follow their advice for proper care and treatment.

Getting a Medusa piercing can be an exciting and empowering experience for those seeking to enhance their facial aesthetics. While it may involve some discomfort during the healing process, the end result is often well worth it. With the right care and maintenance, your Medusa piercing can become a stylish and unique addition to your personal style. So, if you’re considering getting a Medusa piercing, go for it and hold the beauty of self-expression!