Named after Marilyn Monroe's iconic beauty mark, the Monroe piercing sits above the upper lip on the left side a small stud that references one of the most famous facial features in history. Its right-side equivalent is sometimes called a Madonna (after Madonna's birth mole position). The result is intimate, nostalgic, and distinctly feminine in its cultural associations though it reads equally well on any gender in contemporary styling.
A Monroe piercing sits above the upper lip on the left side, mimicking Marilyn Monroe's beauty mark. It rates around 4/10 on pain, takes 3–4 months to heal, and uses a 16G flat-back titanium labret (8–10mm) as starter jewellery. The internal disc sits against the upper gum — correct sizing prevents gum recession.
Monroe Placement: Left, Right, and Anatomy
The Monroe is placed above the upper lip, slightly off-centre to the left and slightly above the vermillion border (the natural lip line). The exact position is guided by your natural facial features:
• If you have a natural mole or freckle near this area, your piercer may position the jewellery to complement it
• The height above the lip line affects the aesthetic significantly — too close reads as a lip ring; too high looks disconnected from the mouth
• A right-side placement (Madonna) is aesthetically equivalent — choose based on your facial symmetry and which side you find more natural
Monroe Pain Level
The Monroe rates 4/10 — comparable to the medusa and labret. The skin above the upper lip is thin and the needle passes through quickly. The sensation is a sharp sting followed by brief throbbing. Most people find it very manageable.
Monroe Healing Time
Full healing takes 3–4 months. The external skin above the lip settles within 6–8 weeks; the internal mucosa takes longer. The Monroe's position at the corner of the mouth means it is exposed to more movement than a central labret smiling, speaking, and eating all affect it more than a chin placement.
Monroe Jewellery
Starter Jewellery
A 16G flat-back labret, 8–10mm length in implant-grade titanium. The Monroe almost always remains a stud the off-centre, above-lip placement does not suit rings the way a labret or medusa might. Most people wear it as a stud indefinitely.
Top Choices for Monroe Piercings
• Small gems (2–3mm) — the classic beauty mark aesthetic
• Flat disc — minimal and understated
• Tiny opal — iridescent, slightly more jewel-like than a plain gem
The Monroe is not a placement for large tops a small 2–3mm top reads most accurately to the beauty mark aesthetic it references.
Browse: Labrets Collection and Tops Collection
Monroe vs Medusa: Key Differences
| Feature | Monroe | Medusa |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Above upper lip, left side (off-centre) | Above upper lip, centre (philtrum) |
| Symmetry | Asymmetric | Symmetrical |
| Cultural reference | Marilyn Monroe beauty mark | No specific reference |
| Top size | Usually small (2–3mm) — beauty mark aesthetic | Flexible — 2–5mm depending on look |
| Ring option | Very rare — not suited to this placement | Rare but possible on some anatomy |
| Combinations | Madonna (right), medusa, labret | Monroe, labret, snake bites |
Monroe Aftercare
• External: saline spray twice daily on the skin above the lip
• Internal: alcohol-free mouthwash after every meal
• Avoid lipstick and lip liner during healing
• Be careful when eating the off-centre position can catch on food more than a central placement
Full guide: Body Piercing Aftercare
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Monroe and a Madonna piercing?
They are the same placement on opposite sides. A Monroe is above the upper lip on the left (like Marilyn Monroe's mole). A Madonna is on the right (referencing Madonna). Aesthetically identical choose based on your facial features.
Does a Monroe piercing damage your gums?
With correctly sized jewellery (3mm internal disc, correct bar length), the risk is low. The internal disc sits against the upper gum on one side. Prompt downsizing at 6–8 weeks and regular dental check-ups are advisable.
Can I get a Monroe and medusa at the same time?
Yes this is a popular combination. Both use the same jewellery type and similar aftercare. The Monroe adds asymmetric detail to the symmetry of the medusa.
How long does a Monroe piercing take to heal?
3–4 months for full healing. External skin settles faster (6–8 weeks). The internal mucosa takes the full period.
Is a Monroe piercing only for women?
No the Monroe is worn across all genders. The beauty mark reference is cultural; the piercing itself is simply a above-lip stud that suits any face shape.