The Complete Guide to Monroe Piercings: Everything You Need to Know

What is a Monroe Piercing?

A Monroe piercing is a type of facial piercing located above the upper lip on either side, mimicking Marilyn Monroe's iconic beauty mark. Also known as a Madonna piercing or Crawford piercing, it offers a bold and visually striking aesthetic. The piercing is typically done with a labret stud, creating a stunning focal point on the face.

Origins and Popularity of Monroe Piercings

Monroe piercings rose to popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s, inspired by cultural icons like Marilyn Monroe and Madonna. This style of piercing quickly gained traction due to its unique placement and glamorous appeal. Today, it remains a popular choice among individuals looking to express their individuality and enhance their facial features.

Procedure and Pain Level

The process of getting a Monroe piercing involves several steps to ensure a safe and successful outcome. Firstly, it's crucial to find a reputable piercing studio like Pierced that employs skilled and experienced piercers. The piercer will cleanse the area and mark the optimal placement for the piercing. A sterilized hollow needle will be used to create a hole, followed by the insertion of a labret stud.

While pain tolerance varies from person to person, most individuals describe the pain associated with Monroe piercings as moderate. The actual piercing itself may cause a brief, intense sensation, similar to a sharp pinch. However, with proper aftercare, any discomfort should subside within a few days.

Those individuals with thicker lips or thicker upper lip skin may feel more pain. Labret piercings generally use 18-gauge jewelry but various options can be discussed with your piercer depending on your goals and anatomy. For example, depending on the thickness of your lips, your piercer may want to use a different gauge. At Pierced, we always make sure our customers are well informed and that our piercers work with them to find the best fit.

Will I have a scar if I remove my Monroe piercing?

Potentially. As with any piercing or puncture, there is always the possibility of a certain amount of scar tissue. The size and extent of scaring will be dependent in part on how your body heals naturally. That said, most people’s scars are barely noticeable. For example, it may look like you have a slight scar from a pimple. Others are more significant. If you have removed other piercings in the past, look at those scars to get a better idea about how your Monroe piercing might heal. Your piercer may also be able to provide pictures from others who have removed theirs for comparison. Just remember that no two bodies or individuals are the same and results may and often do vary.

Monroe Piercing Aftercare

Healing time for a lip piercing generally ranges from between one to three months, depending on the person. Because part of the piercing is inside your mouth, it’s important to rinse with mouthwash, sea salt, or a saline solution after each meal.

Ideally, you should keep your mouth free of others’ bodily fluids while your piercing heals. If you would like to kiss your partner, ask them to rinse with mouthwash beforehand.

For the outside of your piercing, use a saline solution to clean the area at least twice a day. Wash your hands before handling the piercing, and don’t let anyone else handle it. You can gently clean the outer area by dipping a cloth, cotton ball or q-tip in a saline solution and gently wiping a few times throughout the day.

Lastly, avoid swimming pools until your piercing is healed. Swimming pools tend to harbour bacteria and can increase your risk of infection.

Expert Tips for Monroe Piercing Care

Here are some expert tips to enhance the healing process and maintain the health of your Monroe piercing:

Choosing the Right Jewelry: Opt for high-quality jewelry made from materials such as titanium or surgical steel, which are less likely to cause allergies or irritations. Ensure that the jewelry fits comfortably and allows room for swelling.

Patience and Avoiding Touching: Avoid touching or playing with your piercing unnecessarily, as it can introduce bacteria and delay the healing process. Be patient and allow your body time to adjust and heal.

Lifestyle Adjustments: During the healing period, be mindful of activities that may pose a risk to your piercing, such as kissing, smoking, or consuming hot and spicy foods. Make necessary adjustments to ensure proper healing.

What kind of jewellery can I use in a Monroe piercing?

Labret studs are the type of jewelry made specifically for lip piercings. For a Monroe piercing, you’ll want to find a labret stud in the same gauge your piercer used: if you use a smaller piece of jewellery, the piercing may close around it (even if your piercing is fully-healed).

The part of a labret stud that shows is called the “top,” and tops are generally measured in mm. For a very subtle look, shop for 1-2mm tops with metal balls or rhinestones. For an effect with more of a pop, try 3mm and larger. You can even add personality by wearing labret studs with unique shapes, colours, or designs!

Ready to Get your Own Monroe Piercing?

In conclusion, Monroe piercings offer a captivating way to showcase your style and individuality. With proper research, a trusted piercing studio, and careful aftercare, you can enjoy a stunning Monroe piercing while minimizing risks. Remember to consult with professionals, follow their advice, and be patient during the healing process. Enhance your facial aesthetics with a Monroe piercing, and embrace the unique beauty it brings to your overall appearance.

Reach out to Pierced or drop by today. We would love to answer any questions you have and see how we can help you get the piercing you’ve always wanted.

Jewelry for Facial Piercings