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Face Piercing Chart: Names, Placement, and Jewelry
Facial piercing names can be confusing because similar-looking placements may use different jewelry, fit considerations, and care instructions. A nostril piercing is not the same as a high nostril or bridge placement. And lip-area names such as labret, Monroe, and Medusa describe specific locations rather than interchangeable styles. Knowing the placement helps you compare options more clearly before choosing jewelry.
Contact Z-Edge Piercing about your facial piercing options.
A face piercing chart organizes common facial placements by location, including the nose, brow, bridge, cheekbone, lip, and philtrum. It can help you identify names and starting jewelry considerations, while material, sizing, anatomy, healing, and aftercare still need to be matched to the individual piercing.
Start by locating the piercing area on the face, then separate the placement name from the jewelry style. That distinction makes the reference below easier to use and helps explain why two piercings that appear close together may require different decisions.
How to Use a Face Piercing Chart to Start With Placement
A face piercing chart works best as a visual reference, not as a substitute for an anatomy and fit assessment. Start by identifying where the piercing sits: the nostril or septum, the bridge or brow area, the cheekbone, the lip, or the philtrum above the upper lip. Names can overlap across studios and jewelry retailers, so placement gives you the clearest way to compare options. A facial-only chart also keeps the focus where it belongs instead of mixing nose, lip, brow, and cheek placements with unrelated ear or body piercings.
Placement and jewelry are two different decisions. A nostril piercing describes the location, while a flat-back labret, hoop, or another suitable piece describes what goes into that piercing. The same jewelry style may not be appropriate for every location, and a piece that looks right in a photo may sit poorly on your anatomy. Initial jewelry must leave appropriate room for the tissue, match the angle of the piercing, and have a profile that suits the area. Later, jewelry can be changed for a different look once the piercing is ready for that change.
Use the chart to narrow your interests, then evaluate the details that a picture cannot show. Facial anatomy varies in depth, tissue shape, movement, and available surface area. These differences affect whether a planned placement is workable and which jewelry style will rest comfortably without unnecessary pressure. Material information matters as well. Z-Edge prioritizes ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium and nickel-free 14K gold, with documentation available for jewelry materials. Those choices are more useful than judging a piece by color or appearance alone.
- Mark the placement: Identify the exact facial area first, then confirm the name used for that location.
- Separate style from fit: Choose jewelry based on the piercing's angle, tissue, clearance, and profile, not only on how it looks in a product photo.
- Check the material: Look for clear material information, such as ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium or nickel-free 14K gold.
- Plan for care: Every placement has its own contact points and daily-care considerations. Review the piercing aftercare guide alongside the visual reference.
This approach makes a face piercing chart genuinely useful. It helps you identify the placement while leaving sizing, jewelry selection, and final positioning to the details of your anatomy.
Nose Piercings: Nostril, High Nostril, Septum, and Bridge
Nose piercings can look very different even when they use similar jewelry. The key distinction is placement: a standard nostril sits on the side of the nose, while a high nostril is positioned higher on the nasal structure. A septum piercing passes through the soft tissue at the center of the nose, and a bridge piercing sits across the upper bridge. This face piercing chart is a starting point for learning the names, not a substitute for checking anatomy, alignment, fit, and jewelry specifications in person.
Nostril and high nostril placements are located on the outside of the nose. So their position changes how a stud or ring follows the natural contours of the area. A standard nostril commonly uses a flat-back labret or another suitable stud, while a high nostril often benefits from jewelry selected for its higher position and surrounding anatomy. Before choosing a ring, consider whether its diameter and profile will sit comfortably without pulling against the piercing channel. Our nostril guide provides more focused information about this placement.
| Placement | What it means | Common jewelry direction | Care focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nostril | A piercing through the side of the nose, typically placed along the nostril area. | Often a flat-back stud first, with a ring considered only when the fit and placement support it. | Keep pressure, snagging, and unnecessary handling away from the outer entry point. |
| High nostril | A nostril placement positioned higher on the side of the nose than a standard nostril. | A carefully fitted stud is usually the practical starting direction because the position has less surrounding tissue. | Pay close attention to fit, cleanliness, and contact with glasses, hands, or other nearby items. |
| Septum | A central nose piercing placed through the soft tissue beneath the cartilage at the front of the septum. | Common options include a circular barbell, clicker, or horseshoe-style ring selected for the anatomy. | Avoid twisting the jewelry and keep cosmetics, fingers, and friction from irritating the area. |
| Bridge | A horizontal piercing across the upper bridge of the nose, between the eyes. | Jewelry needs precise length, angle, and profile so it rests evenly across the bridge. | Protect it from glasses, pressure, snagging, and buildup around both visible ends. |
Septum jewelry can create a subtle or highly visible look, depending on the ring style, finish, and diameter. The shape should follow the wearer's anatomy rather than forcing the nose into a particular position. For more detail on choosing a style, see the septum jewelry guide.
Across these placements, material and fit matter as much as appearance. Z-Edge recommends documented ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium and also offers nickel-free 14K gold. Clean, properly sized jewelry and straightforward aftercare help protect the piercing while it settles. Because bridge and high nostril placements can be especially sensitive to pressure and alignment, select jewelry for the actual anatomy instead of relying on a one-size-fits-all assumption.
Eyebrow, Anti-Eyebrow, and Other Upper-Face Placements
Upper-face piercings can look similar in a photo while sitting in very different tissue. An eyebrow piercing follows the brow area, usually with entry and exit points through the ridge of tissue above the eye. A horizontal eyebrow placement follows the brow line more closely from side to side, so the angle and available tissue matter when choosing jewelry. These are not interchangeable names for the same piercing. The placement, depth, and shape of the tissue determine whether a curved barbell or another suitable style can sit comfortably without excessive pressure.
A bridge piercing sits across the upper nose between the eyes. It is a surface-style placement rather than a piercing through the nasal bone, and it needs enough stable tissue for the jewelry to rest securely. Because the bridge is a prominent, relatively shallow area, anatomy and initial sizing are especially important. Brow and bridge placements should be assessed for tissue thickness, movement, facial structure, and how the jewelry will interact with nearby features. A reference chart can identify the general location, but it cannot determine the correct angle or fit for every face.
Anti-eyebrow, cheekbone, and teardrop names
An anti-eyebrow is placed below the eye, along the upper cheekbone area. Depending on the studio or jewelry community, the same general placement may be called a cheekbone, teardrop, or butterfly piercing. Those names can overlap, but they do not guarantee an identical position. The exact location may sit closer to the outer eye or farther along the cheekbone, which changes the available tissue and the way the jewelry follows the face.
- Eyebrow: follows the brow area and is chosen around the tissue ridge, facial movement, and desired visual angle.
- Horizontal eyebrow: tracks more laterally across the brow area, making orientation and surface fit central to the design.
- Bridge: crosses the upper nose between the eyes and requires careful attention to stable tissue and initial sizing.
- Anti-eyebrow: sits below the eye near the cheekbone and may be described by several overlapping names.
Jewelry should be selected after the placement is evaluated, not from a label alone. ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium and nickel-free 14K gold are preferred material options at Z-Edge. For a closer look at sizing, styling, and care considerations, read the eyebrow piercing aftercare guide.
Lip, Philtrum, Labret, and Cheek Piercings
Lip-area piercings can look similar at a glance, but a small change in placement creates a different name, jewelry profile, and care focus. Some sit entirely through the outer lip area, while others pass near the mouth and need careful attention to fit and daily contact. Use the distinctions below as a reference when comparing facial piercing placements, then choose jewelry based on your anatomy and the specific position.
| Placement | Visible location | Typical jewelry direction | Key care consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lip | Through or beside the upper or lower lip area | Usually a fitted flat-back stud; the exact exit point determines the style | Keep the fit controlled around facial movement and avoid unnecessary contact |
| Labret | Centered below the lower lip | A flat-back post runs from the outer face toward the inside of the lower lip | Monitor both the outer opening and the inside disc for rubbing or pressure |
| Medusa or philtrum | Centered in the philtrum, the vertical groove above the upper lip | A flat-back post is fitted vertically through the upper-lip area | Choose a profile and length that respect natural lip movement and oral contact |
| Monroe or Madonna | Off-center on the upper-lip area, styled like a beauty mark | Typically a small flat-back stud positioned to one side | Placement and profile should suit facial movement without catching or pressing |
| Vertical lip | Passes vertically through the lower lip, with ends visible above and below it | A curved barbell follows the vertical path of the lip | Both ends need room and a secure fit as the lip moves during eating and speaking |
| Ashley | Centered through the lower lip, with the front end visible on the lip | A flat-back post is fitted through the lower lip | The visible end and inside disc require balanced sizing and consistent gentle care |
| Cheek or dimple | Placed in the cheek area to create a dimple-style look | Usually a flat-back post, selected for the tissue and intended position | Fit, placement, and daily pressure matter because the cheek is active facial tissue |
How the names differ
Labret, Medusa, Monroe, Madonna, and Ashley are placement names, not interchangeable labels for one piercing. A labret is centered below the lower lip. Medusa is centered above the upper lip in the philtrum. Monroe and Madonna describe an off-center upper-lip placement, with the side creating part of the visual identity. An Ashley is centered through the lower lip, while a vertical lip follows a different path and shows jewelry on both sides of the lip.
Cheek or dimple piercings are distinct from lip placements because the visible jewelry sits farther out in the cheek. For a deeper look at sizing, jewelry, and care for one lower-lip option, read the labret healing and jewelry guide. If the centered upper-lip placement is the one you are considering, the Medusa piercing aftercare guide provides more focused information.
For any of these placements, documented materials matter. Z-Edge offers ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium and nickel-free 14K gold, with jewelry selected for the placement and the wearer's anatomy. The chart can help you identify a style, but it cannot replace precise placement and sizing for the individual piercing.
How to Choose Jewelry for a Facial Piercing
Once you identify a facial piercing placement, jewelry selection should follow the anatomy rather than the other way around. The right piece must suit the tissue, sit securely, leave appropriate room for normal changes during healing. And match the way the piercing moves with your expressions, sleep position, and daily activities.
Start with a documented material
For a fresh or healing facial piercing, ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium is a strong material choice. It is nickel-free and can be finished in a clean, understated look or paired with a decorative end. Z-Edge also offers nickel-free 14K gold and lab-grown diamond jewelry for clients who want a warmer color or a more detailed finish. Look for clear material information and documentation rather than relying on vague labels such as "hypoallergenic."
Material is only one part of the decision. A high-quality piece can still be unsuitable if its shape, size, or finish does not match the placement. Jewelry should have a smooth surface and a secure closure, with no rough edges that catch on clothing, towels, or facial hair.
Match the fit to the placement
Post length matters because facial tissue is not uniform. A nostril, lip, eyebrow, and bridge piercing each experience different pressure and movement. A post that is too short can press into tissue, while one that is too long may move excessively or snag. The correct length should account for the individual anatomy and the jewelry style, not simply follow a generic chart measurement.
Profile matters as well. A lower-profile end may be practical for a nostril or lip placement, while a curved barbell or carefully selected decorative end may better suit another facial area. For oral-adjacent piercings, the jewelry must also sit comfortably in relation to the inside of the mouth and surrounding teeth and gums. Placement and jewelry should be assessed together.
Choose a secure construction
Threadless jewelry uses a tension-fit end, while internally threaded jewelry has a threaded end that screws into the post or barbell. Both can be appropriate when the piece is correctly sized and finished. The priority is a secure connection that can be cleaned easily and does not create unnecessary friction against the piercing.
A face piercing chart can help you compare placements, but it cannot replace an anatomy-based fit assessment. Bring your preferred material, color, and profile to the appointment, then let the selected post or barbell length reflect the actual placement. For more detail on choosing septum jewelry styles or labret healing and jewelry, use the dedicated guides alongside this facial reference.
Facial Piercing Healing and Aftercare Basics
Follow the care instructions for your specific placement. A nostril, eyebrow, bridge, lip, or cheek piercing may have different jewelry, movement, and contact considerations. Use the written instructions provided with your piercing rather than applying a one-size-fits-all routine. Z-Edge includes aftercare education and take-home guidance so you know what to do from the beginning. Keep the instructions accessible, and review the piercing aftercare guide when you need a clear refresher.
Wash your hands before touching the area. Clean hands are the starting point for any necessary care. Rinse away visible residue according to your supplied instructions, then use only the recommended product and method. Do not handle the jewelry simply to check whether it moves. Facial jewelry can catch on towels, clothing, hair, glasses, masks, or bedding, so plan your routine around keeping contact brief and deliberate.
Leave the jewelry in its resting position. Twisting, spinning, sliding, or repeatedly pressing a post or ring adds unnecessary movement to healing tissue. Avoid picking at dried material or trying to remove buildup with fingernails. If residue needs attention, soften and clear it gently using the care method provided to you. The goal is calm, consistent care, not constant adjustment.
Keep cosmetics, skin products, and friction away. Makeup, creams, sunscreen, hair products, and cleansers should not collect around the piercing. Apply surrounding products carefully and keep them off the opening and jewelry. Take care with pillowcases, phones, helmets, eyewear, and anything else that rests against the face. Avoid sleeping directly on the piercing when possible, and choose clean fabrics that will not snag the jewelry.
Pay attention to changes without self-diagnosing. Notice whether the jewelry remains comfortably positioned and whether new pressure, persistent catching, or increasing irritation follows a change in your routine. Record what may have caused extra contact, such as a new cosmetic, accessory, or sleeping position. Do not respond by tightening, replacing, or removing jewelry on your own. Keep the care routine simple and avoid adding unapproved products that can further irritate the area.
Protect the piercing while your habits settle. Facial piercings are easy to see, but that does not make them easy to leave alone. Tie back hair when needed, clean items that touch your face, and be mindful during dressing, exercise, grooming, and phone use. Consistent care supports the placement and fit decisions made at the start, including quality jewelry such as ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium or nickel-free 14K gold. If the jewelry catches or the area changes after accidental contact. Follow your supplied instructions and contact Z-Edge for direct guidance rather than experimenting with a new care routine.
Contact Z-Edge Piercing to plan your facial piercing placement and jewelry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use a face piercing chart to choose a placement?
Start with the area you want to adorn, then compare the placement name, jewelry direction, profile, and fit requirements. A chart can help you distinguish a nostril from a high nostril, a labret from a Medusa, or an eyebrow piercing from an anti-eyebrow. It cannot replace an anatomy and sizing assessment, because tissue shape and movement affect the jewelry that fits comfortably.
What jewelry materials are best for a new facial piercing?
Look for documented ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium or nickel-free 14K gold. Z-Edge also offers lab-grown diamond jewelry for selected styles. Material documentation matters more than a vague label, especially when facial skin may react to unwanted nickel or other alloy components.
How should I care for a facial piercing after it is placed?
Follow the written aftercare instructions provided for your specific placement, keep the area clean as directed, and avoid unnecessary touching, twisting, pressure, or friction. Facial piercings do not all have the same care needs, so use placement-specific guidance rather than applying a single routine to every piercing.
Are lip and oral-adjacent piercings different from other face piercings?
Yes. A labret, Monroe or Madonna, and Medusa involve the lip or the area around the mouth. While a nostril, eyebrow, bridge, or cheekbone placement involves different tissue and movement patterns. Jewelry profile and fit are especially important near the mouth, where contact with teeth or gums should be considered during selection.
Contact Z-Edge Piercing About Your Facial Piercing
Choosing a facial piercing involves matching the placement, jewelry direction, profile, and material to your goals and anatomy. If you want help narrowing down the options in this face piercing chart, contact Z-Edge Piercing through the contact page to discuss placement, jewelry, and next steps. A clear conversation can help you move forward with a plan that fits your preferences.
