The anti-eyebrow sits precisely where its name suggests below the eye, on the upper cheekbone, diagonally opposite the eyebrow piercing. Also called a teardrop piercing or upper cheek piercing, it creates a dramatic framing effect for the eye. It is a surface piercing through the skin over the cheekbone, which means it shares the same realistic expectations as other surface placements: beautiful while it lasts, moderate rejection risk, and likely not permanent.
An anti-eyebrow piercing is a surface piercing through the skin on the upper cheekbone, below the outer eye. It rates around 4/10 on pain, takes 6-9 months to heal, and uses a 16G titanium surface bar as starter jewellery. It has moderate rejection risk. Glasses, sunglasses, and facial expressions are the main healing challenges.
Anti-Eyebrow Placement
Placement on the cheekbone varies by anatomy and aesthetic preference:
• High cheekbone placement - closer to the outer eye corner; more dramatic; more commonly affected by glasses
• Lower cheekbone placement - further below the eye; slightly less visible but also less prone to glasses interference
The bar should run diagonally along the natural contour of the cheekbone. A skilled piercer will assess the angle and amount of available skin before marking.
Pain Level
The anti-eyebrow rates 4/10. The cheekbone skin is thin and relatively flat the needle passes through a clean pinch without complexity. Eye tearing is common due to proximity to the lacrimal area.
Healing and Rejection Risk
Healing takes 6-9 months. Rejection risk is moderate. The main challenges:
• Glasses and sunglasses frames frequently sit exactly where an anti-eyebrow is placed; constant frame contact is the most common cause of rejection in this placement
• Facial expressions cheek movement during speaking, smiling and eating creates micromotion around the bar
• Makeup -- foundation, concealer and contouring products sitting against the piercing during healing cause irritation
Read more: Piercing Rejection: Signs, Causes and Prevention
Jewellery
A 16G titanium surface bar is the correct jewellery. The 90-degree bends of the surface bar allow both gem ends to sit flush against the cheek skin without creating leverage that would accelerate rejection. Small 2-3mm gem or disc ends reduce facial profile and snagging risk.
Aftercare
• Saline spray twice daily directed carefully to avoid spray near the eye
• Avoid glasses during healing or choose frames that arc above the cheekbone placement
• Avoid foundation and makeup products directly on the site
• Sleep on the opposite side
Full guide: Body Piercing Aftercare
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an anti-eyebrow piercing last?
With correct jewellery and care, anti-eyebrow piercings can last 3-7 years. The main variable is glasses wear constant frame contact dramatically reduces lifespan. Without glasses pressure, longevity improves significantly.
Is an anti-eyebrow piercing the same as a teardrop piercing?
Yes teardrop piercing is an alternative name for the same placement. It references the position below the eye where a teardrop would fall.
Can I wear glasses with an anti-eyebrow?
It depends on your frame shape. Frames with a high arch that clears the cheekbone are compatible. Standard frames that rest on the cheekbone create constant pressure on the piercing and significantly increase rejection risk.
How painful is an anti-eyebrow?
4/10 similar to the eyebrow piercing. Thin cheekbone skin means a quick, clean needle pass. Eye tearing is common due to proximity to the tear ducts.
What is the correct jewellery for an anti-eyebrow?
A 16G titanium surface bar with 90-degree bends. Straight barbells are not suitable as they create leverage at the entry and exit points, significantly accelerating rejection.