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Published Thursday, July 25, 2024

Medusa / Philtrum Piercings: Your Complete Guide

 

What is a Medusa Piercing?

A Medusa piercing, also known as a philtrum piercing, is a type of labret piercing centered above the top lip, in that little divot between the nose and lip called the philtrum. It's a bold and trendy piercing that can really enhance your look.

 

Pain Level

When it comes to pain, lip piercings, including the Medusa, tend to be lower on the scale. However, pain tolerance varies from person to person. The philtrum area might sting a bit more or cause your eyes to water due to its proximity to your sinus nerves.

 

Healing Time

Healing time for a Medusa piercing is typically around 3-6 months, but it can vary depending on the individual and any complications that arise. During this time, it's crucial to follow your piercer’s aftercare instructions carefully.

 

Aftercare Tips

  • Wash the outside of your mouth at least once a day with saline spray.
  • Use an alcohol-free mouthwash on the inside of your mouth.
  • Avoid touching the piercing.
  • Stay away from bodies of water like pools, lakes, or beaches to prevent infections.
  • Avoid foods that are overly salty, spicy, or acidic as they can irritate the piercing.

 

Changing Your Jewelry

Once your piercing is healed, you can change your jewelry. Philtrum piercings are generally about 16g in size and are typically limited to labrets. However, you can still achieve a variety of looks by switching out the labret’s end design.

SHOP OUR PHILTRUM COLLECTION HERE

 

Stretching Your Philtrum

While less common, you can stretch your philtrum piercing. Keep in mind that stretching may alter the look and shape of your lips after increasing to larger sizes.

 

Combining with Septum Piercing

Yes, you can have both your philtrum and septum pierced! The ability to wear jewelry in both at the same time depends on your jewelry and anatomy. Be sure to discuss this with your piercer to find the right placement for both piercings.

 

Oral Health Considerations

With any oral piercing, it's important to keep an eye on your teeth and gums. While it's less likely to bite down on your philtrum jewelry compared to other lip piercings, there's still a risk of gum or enamel damage from the jewelry pressing against your teeth or gums. If you notice any erosion or damage, remove your jewelry and consult your piercer or a medical professional immediately.

 

How to Change a Medusa Piercing

Changing a Medusa piercing can seem a bit intimidating, but with the right steps, it’s actually quite simple. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it safely and effectively.

 

Step 1: Prepare Your Materials

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:

  • Saline spray for cleaning the piercing
  • Q-tips for applying the saline solution
  • Jewelry that is properly sanitized
  • Optional: Nitrile gloves for added cleanliness

 

Step 2: Clean the Piercing

It’s crucial to start with a clean piercing to avoid infection:

  • Spray the saline solution onto a Q-tip.
  • Gently clean around the piercing area to remove any debris or crust.

 

Step 3: Remove the Old Jewelry

Carefully unscrew or slide out the existing jewelry. Make sure your hands are clean before doing this to prevent introducing bacteria.

 

Step 4: Insert the New Jewelry

Take your new, sanitized jewelry and gently insert it into the piercing. Make sure it goes in smoothly and doesn't cause discomfort. If you experience pain or swelling, you may consider consulting a professional piercer.

 

Step 5: Final Cleaning

After the new jewelry is in place, give the area one last clean with the saline spray to ensure it's all set.

 

 

That's all you need to know about Medusa piercings! If you found this information helpful, please remember to follow us on all our socials @Bodyartforms!