Amongst the ever expansive list of facial piercings, Medusa piercings are the go-to piercing for body artists looking to create a sophisticated and symmetric look. Medusa piercings are located centrally in the vertical groove or philtrum of the upper lip. They are an excellent way to draw attention to the upper lip, and if you already have a sexy upper lip, consider them a necessary complement. If otherwise, Medusa piercings are also known to bring the plushness out of the upper lip – making it sexier and irresistibly cute.
Types of Medusa piercing
Medusa piercings come in three variations;
- Single Medusa piercings
In a single Medusa piercing the philtrum is pierced once and a fitting jewelry (usually a stud) is inserted. Of all types of medusa piercing, this variant is the most popular.
- Double Medusa piercings
As the name implies, to get a double Medusa piercing the philtrum is pierced twice. The two piercings are oriented vertically on the same line in the groove of the philtrum. This piercing style allows piercers the opportunity to get creative with their piercing jewelry since it can accommodate two separate jewelry designs.
- Vertical Medusa piercings
Vertical Medusa piercings are for those looking to recreate the bold Medusa look. Here, the piercing needle passes through the philtrum, from top to bottom creating a vertical piercing bore through which a barbell (curved or straight) is inserted. Think of it as a ….. but this time on the upper lip
The Piercing Procedure
First, your piercer prepares the piercing area i.e. the philtrum by cleaning with a disinfectant solution; this is to eradicate all germs and microbes. He/she will then proceed to highlight the desired entry and in the case of vertical Medusa piercings exit points – this is essential to preserve the much sort after symmetry of Medusa piercings.
With the aid of a clamp, your upper lip is then secured before the piercing needle is inserted through the marked points. Once this is complete, excess blood is cleaned off, and a new stud preferably one with a larger gauge is inserted in the piercing to preserve the pierced bore.
Medusa Piercing Jewelry
The ideal and most popular piercing jewelry for Medusa piercings are labret studs; as with other piercing jewelry, these come in various designs, styles, and colors.
For vertical medusa piercings, however, the most fitting jewelry are curved or straight barbells, and like labret studs, there’s a huge variety from which you can make your selection.
That said, the better jewelry options are those made out of high-quality materials with little or no irritant effects to body tissues, examples of which are titanium, niobium, gold, surgical grade steel and piercing ready acrylic. While these cost significantly more than the not so safe jewelry options, their benefits far outweigh the cost implication.
Pain, aftercare, and healing time
Nothing good comes easy, so expect a slight bit of tingling when getting your medusa piercing. Since the lip is well vascularised, be also prepared to see some blood. The good news is this pain and bleeding subsides almost immediately, so have no fears.
Healing is usually complete within a 6 to 12-week window, provided piercing aftercare is strictly adhered to, and no cases of infections were recorded. Piercing aftercare for Medusa piercings is a relatively straightforward procedure, just make certain to keep to the following rules;
- Lay of spicy, too hot or too cold meals throughout the healing process
- Switch your toothpaste and toothbrush to milder and softer options
- Refrain from taking alcohol and smoking cigarettes as the piercing heals
- Makeup should also be avoided
- Resist any temptation to fiddle and play with your piercing
- And most importantly, remember to clean the piercing area with a saltwater solution routinely.
Provided you adhere to these aftercare rules, your piercing journey should be smooth sailing. If you, however, notice discharge and redness accompanied by swelling in and around the piercing area endeavor to consult your piercer or a medical professional as this could be early signs of a piercing infection.
