Alysa Liu's Gold-Medal Smile Holds a Surprising Silver Secret

Alysa Liu captivated millions with her Olympic gold win in women's figure skating, and her distinctive smile was partly due to a "smiley" piercing she did herself. This unique jewelry is visible only when she smiles widely.

Self-Pierced Jewelry

Liu's frenulum piercing, done over two years ago, was performed by herself with the help of her sister. She mentioned that she experienced no pain during the process. Her interest in piercing began as a hobby after she retired from skating at age 16.

Signature Look and Style

Liu's appearance features dark brunette hair with bleach-blond stripes, added annually like tree rings. She collaborates with stylist Kelsey Miller for maintenance, intending to add a new ring each year.

Liu's Background

Born in Clovis, California, Liu is the eldest of five children raised by her father, Arthur Liu, and mother, Yan Qingxin. In 2022, news surfaced about them being targets of Chinese government-directed espionage.

The accomplished skater achieved a career-best score in Milan and became the first American woman since 2002 to win individual figure skating gold.