Monroe piercings

Why's it called a Monroe?

Named after the actress Marilyn Monroe, who's famous beauty spot gave inspiration for this piercing, the Monroe is located to the side of the upper lip. It's often located on the left side of the face, although this isn't a hard and fast rule, and piercings above the lip are often referred to as Monroes no matter which side they're on.

Monroe Piercing by artist black0widow - profile

The same piercing located on the right can be known as a 'Madonna' or 'Cindy Crawford' due to the location of the singer and model's own beauty marks. Generally pierced with a smaller-gauge stud, the location isn't identicle on everyone, and depends on what the wearer's after,

This piercing is typically fitted with a 12, 16, or 18 gauge labret, the bars of which are usually shortened after healing. The Crayfish piercing is a variation on the monroe - a double version with piercings worn on both sides of the upper lip. When long barbells are worn in the Crayfish, they look similar to the antennae on a crayfish, which is where the name comes from. Most people with a Monroe piercing favor a metal ball or a jewel on the outer-end.

How it's done

First, the piercer will mark the spot for your Monroe with a permanent ink marker. You'll most likely be given a couple of options for placing.
You will be instructed to rinse your mouth with mouthwash, usually a medical strength variety to sterilize your mouth and prevent infection during and after the process.
Your upper lip will be clamped and held in place by the piercer, and then a hollow needle will be passed through the lip (you'll probably be asked to breathe in, then let it out slowly - ths helps to relax everything, and makes it a much easier process).
A labret stud or barbell will be placed in your lip - which will often be longer than the size you'd like. This is to allow for swelling, and most piercing shops will have you return in two to three weeks to have a shorter bar placed.

Aftercare

The lip can often swell considerably after the piercing and will need both facial and oral aftercare to keep both sides of the jewelery clean at all times. Monroes, like all piercings, are prone to infection and it is vital that the piercing is cleaned regularly. Scarring is minimal to none if properly taken care of. It's suggested that you brush your teeth at least three times a day, and if possible, smoke less, or brush your teeth after. Don't play with the piercing, and sea-salt rinses can also aid the healing process - always ask your piercer and see what they advise. Plastic labret studs are available to minimise the risk of tooth enamel or gum damage associated with piercings in this area. You're going to have to expect some swelling at first, but this will go down - healing times vary with this piercing, and it really depends on the thickness of your lip, and how well you take care of it.

Monroe piercings

Why's it called a Monroe?

How it's done

Aftercare

Surface Piercings