Face Piercings of the Padaung

Metal studs puncture cheeks and chins among women in Myanmar’s Padaung communities. These remarkable adornments transform facial landscapes, telling stories of personal and cultural identity. Intricate piercings mark transitions from childhood to womanhood, creating visual statements that capture attention. Delicate metalwork reflects deep-rooted traditions, though younger generations increasingly move away from these practices that once defined beauty standards.



