Piercings done on the face are a bold and edgy form of body modification, and so is the medusa piercing which is done on the upper lip area. Just like all other types of lip piercings, they are a cool way to add some bling to your face.
If you’re intrigued by this form of piercing, get the rundown below in 12 quick facts.
1. What is a Medusa Piercing?
Medusa piercing is the nickname for philtrum piercing because it is placed on the philtrum which is located on the upper lips. The perfect spot is the dip, called the “Cupid’s bow” under the nasal septum.
2. The Types
There are two variations of the medusa piercing which are double and jestrum. The double features two pierced spots in a line so it is twice the fun. The look for the jestrum piercing is achieved when the jewelry is placed so the other end is visible, rather than staying inside your mouth.
View this post on Instagram
3. The Piercing Procedure
It starts when you book an appointment with a professional piercer. They will examine your lips and discuss all areas of concern you might be having, before settling on jewelry after which the procedure will begin.
With their hands in gloves, the piercer will sterilize the tools for the procedure, after which you will have to disinfect your mouth by rinsing it out. The lips are clamped with forceps to keep them steady so they can pierce the exact spot.
A needle is then used to puncture from the outer lips to the insides. The jewelry is inserted into the spot and screwed at the other end. The area will be cleaned up, and you will need to rinse out your mouth again because of the slight bleeding.
4. How Much Does it Hurt?
It hurts to get a piercing of this kind because the lip area has many nerve endings, but predicting how much it will hurt is a bit tricky. This is because the procedure is accompanied by pain, but the amount of pain an individual feels is relative to the tolerance and thickness of their lips.
5. The Healing Process
It takes anywhere from two to three months for a medusa piercing to fully heal. While some people heal faster, it can be a slow process for others. The things that can help are good hygiene and proper care for your piercing.
6. The Aftercare Routine
The piercer will give you a routine that is vital for your healing which might include: washing your hands before cleaning the piercing, before using a saline solution to clean the spot twice daily.
You will feel pain during the first week. Sucking carefully on ice will help with the pain and swelling. Practice good oral hygiene and brush your teeth at least twice a day. You must be careful of the piercing and rinse out your mouth after eating.
View this post on Instagram
7. Side Effects
Medusa piercings, like most piercings, have common side effects that include the risk of infection, swelling, and redness which should go down within the first few days. Crusting can also form over the spot due to the discharge emitted as it heals.
Allergies can occur and most professionals will ask for any allergies to select metals that you may have. This happens because most people are not aware of their allergies so it is best to go for hypoallergenic metals. In more serious cases, a piercing done wrong can lead to damage to the gums and teeth.
8. The Cost
Your location and the piercing studio will determine the cost. A professional piercing studio can start their prices from $40 and above. This is excluding the cost of jewelry. Combined with the price of the service, the total you’ll spend is dependent on how much you are willing to splurge on your jewelry.
9. Things to Avoid After Getting Pierced
There are some things you should not do in the early stages of your piercing. What you need to remember is that no foreign object is allowed near the piercing. This means most oral activities should be suspended. From kissing, chewing the nails, sharing utensils, oral sex, smoking or vaping, and importantly, touching your jewelry. These can introduce bacteria, which can lead to an infection.
10. The Type of Jewelry Used
The piercing is done with a titanium labret stud which will sit in your mouth. They are usually 14-16 gauge, made with implant-grade titanium or solid gold. Based on your anatomy, you can start with a longer size that will aid healing.
View this post on Instagram
11. When Can I Change the Jewelry?
Once you’re fully healed, you can change into any jewelry of choice. You can wait for six months just to be sure. Go back to the piercer to get changed, but if you want to do it at home, use clean hands and use the utmost care.
12. Who Shouldn’t get this Piercing
People with oral issues are not advised to get this piercing as the healing is dependent on great oral health. Also, if the space between your septum and lips is small, you should go for other types of lip piercings.
In summary, this alternative lip piercing style is a top choice for virtually everyone, as it pairs well with a septum piercing. Committing to good aftercare combined with a piercing that is well placed to suit your face is all you need to join the medusa train with ease.
You may also like to read, 10 things to know before getting a lip piercing
