Nose piercing is a touch of creativity that highlights your personality through facial jewelry. There are countless styles and options you can choose from; from piercings for the nasal septum (septum) or nostril (nostril piercing), to more complex ones, such as the “rhinos” or the “third eye“.
Don’t act on impulse, think carefully about every decision you make; after all, we are still talking about body modifications! There is a lot to consider, including the anatomy of the face and nose, the type of nose piercing, the jewelry to wear, and the risks. Continue reading the post to discover lots of useful information, which will make your decision easier.
What is nose piercing?
It is a hole made in the skin or cartilage of the nose, it is a form of creative expression that has been in vogue for a long time. The nose piercing is the most common and can be worn by both men and women. There are several pieces of jewelry to choose from, so it won’t be difficult to find what works best for you.
Gems, stones, or simple circles, you are spoiled for choice. These piercings are relatively simple to do and care for, you will likely only experience mild discomfort.
The healing stages of nose piercing
Inflammatory phase
After nose piercing, the first step is always inflammation. The body reacts by not recognizing the foreign body. Swelling and redness are very normal reactions. During this phase, the skin tissue around the piercing becomes irritated and remains so for about a week. The absence of improvement after two weeks indicates the presence of a possible infection. Do not touch the jewel, do not change it, and contact your piercer immediately.
Pain and healing
The next stage is healing; Bleeding, swelling, and bruising may occur during this step. If you feel itchy, do not touch the jewelry to avoid bacterial proliferation. Any secretions of yellowish liquid are also absolutely normal, it is nothing more than a combination of blood plasma, lymph, and dead blood cells. Pierced nostrils heal in about two months, but can take even longer. Practice all the necessary hygiene rules to speed up healing.
Healing phase
The last step of healing and scarring occurs after approximately two/four months. During this phase, you can finally change your jewel without risk, choosing a more elaborate one.
Aftercare
Caring for a nose piercing is relatively simple. Cleanse the area twice a day, using a saline solution. Avoid touching the jewelry to avoid introducing bacteria and causing irritation. If you really have to, wash your hands well. Do not change your piercing during the healing phase. Monitor any discomfort and report any abnormality or excessive pain.
Risks of nose piercing
Since it is a real modification to the body, side effects are not completely absent. The most likely risk is an infection caused by incorrect cleaning or an allergy to the jewelry material. Surgical steel and titanium are the best choices to avoid adverse reactions.
Other side effects include foreign body rejection, which is when your body “rejects” the jewel by expelling it from the skin, or any discomfort when you blow your nose.
In general, good hygiene is enough to avoid most problems caused by nose piercings.
Jewelry for the Pierced Nose
There is a wide variety of styles and materials to choose from; among the most popular jewels we find studs, nostrils, barbells, and hoops. Part of the initial decision is made by the piercer, who will insert standard piercings in hypoallergenic material.
After two/four months, once healing is complete, you will also be able to wear gold or silver jewelry. Avoid anything containing nickel or plated costume jewelry, which is often made up of mixed metals and dyes.
Studs or “studs”
“Studs” are in great demand, require little maintenance, and do not get snagged on clothing. Both men and women can wear them. They are often used for the first nose piercing, during the healing period. There are different styles and sizes, with different gems set at the top of the jewelry. The “studs” are unobtrusive, refined, and easy to wear.
Hoops or “hoops”
Nose rings are also very popular. It is not recommended to use these jewels before healing, as the slight curvature could slow down the healing phase. You can experiment with different sizes and thicknesses; with many different materials and colors to choose from, depending on your preferences.
Nostril Screws
Ours are small screws to insert into the nostrils. Before wearing them it is better to wait until the piercing is completely healed (in fact, before that, they could be painful). Again, you can choose from a wide range of models. Attention! The shape and thickness must be precise, otherwise, you could risk irritating the area.
The materials of the nose-piercing
There are many metals and materials to use, depending on your preferences and the budget you have available. Surgical stainless steel is one of the most common options, as it is affordable and hypoallergenic. 14K gold is definitely more expensive, but it’s beautiful to look at!
Titanium
It is often used for initial piercings, as it is completely nickel-free. Great if you are allergic or have sensitive skin. It is durable, lightweight, and body-safe, but is more expensive than other materials. Titanium makes healing safer and faster; professional piercers use it without hesitation.
14K gold
If you want to add a touch of elegance to your nose, you can do it with a jewel made entirely of 14K gold. This type of carat weight is the ideal choice for nose piercings, as there are no fillers made up of other metals. The beauty of 14K gold, as opposed to 24K, is that it doesn’t damage easily over time, you just need to do a good cleaning on a regular basis.
Surgical stainless steel
It is one of the most convenient options for piercings; always available and economical, it allows you to change your piercing regularly (once healed, of course) without spending a fortune. Surgical stainless steel is gentle on the body and hypoallergenic. It is safe and of good quality, avoiding the risk of irritation and potential infections.
Silver
Silver is not recommended for fresh nose piercing, but can be worn once the nose is fully healed. You can choose between pure silver or sterling silver. Most piercers, however, recommend wearing silver jewelry for only a short period of time, as it is a delicate metal that oxidizes easily.
Types of nose piercing
The septum and nose piercings are undoubtedly the most famous, but not the only ones! We have the third eye, the bridge, the high nostril, the nasallang, the Austin bar, the rhino, and the septal bridge. What you choose depends on your personal style and preferences. Some piercings are more difficult (and painful) to perform than others.
Once you have made your decision, do some research and rely on a good professional who is an expert in the sector.
Piercing Septril
It is the most complex and difficult nose piercing to obtain. It’s not that common to see, but it’s very charming if done correctly and on the right type of nose. The process involves using the fistula, or tunnel, present in the healed flesh, of an already stretched septum piercing. The piercer pushes a needle from the bottom of the center of the septum, through the previous piercing, inserting the jewelry (often a curved barbell). It is a piercing that requires time, patience, and skill.
The third eye-piercing
If you’re looking for a truly unique look, why not consider a third eye piercing? It is a dermal piercing that extends vertically from the bridge of the nose towards the forehead. It’s tricky to do, as there isn’t much skin to grab in that area. Before inserting the needle, the piercer marks the two holes, followed by the placement of the jewelry. Third eye piercing is more prone to complications, including infection, migration, and rejection. Once healed, it appears irresistible and elegant, distinctive and original.
Piercing on the upper part of the nostril or high nostril
It is very similar to the traditional Nostral but positioned higher on the nasal bridge. The recommended jewels for this look are pins, studs, or L-shaped earrings. Rings are highly recommended. Your piercer will determine the best placement based on the shape and curvature of your nose. It can also be performed on both nostrils.
Piercing Nasallang
The nasallang is a trinasal piercing that uses a single long barbell to penetrate both the nostrils and the septum. In this case, the piercer pushes the needle through all three layers at the same time. The insertion of the jewels will follow. It’s not a piercing for the faint of heart.
The final effect shows two single studs in each nostril. Unlike regular septum piercings, which usually miss the harder cartilage in the center of the nose, this one goes right through the thickest layer, as it is positioned higher on the nose bridge.
Nose piercing or nostril
It is among the most common and simple nose piercings to do. There are so many jewels to choose from. Nostril has its roots in Ayurvedic medicine, which uses the hole (on the left nostril) to relieve the pain of menstruation and childbirth in women.
Rhino Piercing
Stand out from the crowd with a rhino piercing! Just like the third eye, this is a vertical piercing. It runs from the lower center of the septum to above the tip of the nose. The name comes from the resemblance it has to rhino horn. The process is relatively simple, the needle pierces the area which is filled with a curved barbell.
The cartilage at the tip of the nose is very complex; positioning and technique must be perfect to avoid unnecessary damage and trauma. This ancient piercing was worn by African and South American tribes; only recently has it also made its appearance in the West.
Piercing Austin bar
The Austin bar is similar to the nasallang, it is very rare and in little demand. It is a piercing that runs straight through the tip of the nose. Unlike nasallang, it does not penetrate the nostril and septum. A barbell is often used as jewelry. The name comes from the first person who wore it, in a studio located in London.
Piercing bridge o Erl
It is a superficial piercing that is performed on the bridge of the nose, between the eyes. Precisely because it is a skin piercing, it may have a higher risk of infection, migration, and rejection. Pay close attention during the healing phase.
It’s very nice to look at, but there are a few things to keep in mind, including whether or not you wear glasses. If you do, place it out of the way. It often gets caught on clothes and is a little uncomfortable to wear; If you like it though, it’s definitely worth it!
Septum Piercing
Very popular and sought after by both men and women. There is a small, thin membrane of skin located in the center of the nose, between the end of the septum and the tip of the nose. That point is right where the piercing goes.
The septum can be easily hidden during business meetings, in case you are prohibited from showing it. Being a common option, there are many jewels to choose from, with different gems, shapes, and materials.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What does a nose piercing mean?
In some cultures, such as in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, nose piercing has a long history, rich in meaning. It can symbolize marriage, wealth, or fertility. Conversely, in the West, it is often seen as a sign of rebellion against conventional expectations and standard beauty.
Does nose piercing hurt?
The simple hole is not painful, more like a pinch. It may make your eyes water as a spontaneous reaction, but it’s completely bearable. However, keep in mind that the perception of pain is subjective!
What is important to know before making the hole?
The first step is to find an experienced piercer. Make sure you go to a clean salon, with properly sterilized tools. Beyond that, decide beforehand what type of nose piercing you want, as well as the risks associated with it. Finally, take into consideration any allergies to metals if you are at risk. Buy the necessary products for aftercare in advance, so as not to find yourself unprepared.
How much does a nose piercing cost?
The average price varies between 30$ to 100$, depending on the type of piercing requested and the jewelry purchased.
How to clean the nose piercing?
Immerse it regularly in saline solution. Don’t touch it with dirty hands, be careful when sleeping and changing clothes. Do not use pure alcohol or other chemicals. Any scabs that form around the piercing are normal. Remove them gently with saline solution. If the area appears inflamed, use an ice pack and ibuprofen. If it gets worse or doesn’t go away within a few days, contact your primary care doctor for expert advice.
Which nostril is best to pierce?
There is no right or wrong side to wearing nose piercing; however, the left is almost always the favorite. That said, you should decide based on your personal preferences. For example, evaluating your best profile could be a good way to enhance it further.
What is the meaning of nose rings?
It varies depending on the country and culture. It can symbolize wealth, fertility, marriage, and spiritual enlightenment. In the West, it is simply an aesthetic expression of rebellion and personal style.
What to do if jewelry falls out of the nose piercing?
If the piercing is not completely healed and falls out of the nose, try to put it back in immediately, very gently (hoping that the jewel is clean and has not fallen to the floor). Freshly made holes can close in just a few minutes, inserting them could be quite painful. Forcing the hole could cause infection and irritation, if the operation is too complicated, stop. If in doubt, it’s best to go back to your piercer. If the nose piercing is healed, you can reinsert the jewel without problems.
At what age is it possible to make a hole?
The age varies depending on the country you are in, generally, it is sufficient to be over 16 years old and have a valid identity document. Some countries require written parental consent for minors under 18.
Is it possible to pierce your nose with a lobe-earring gun?
This is not recommended. Better to contact a qualified professional who will make the hole using a hollow and sterilized needle. The gun should only be used for earlobes; the nose could cause trauma and damage to surrounding tissues.
When can a nose piercing be replaced?
It would be best not to change it until it is completely healed. This process takes two to four months. How to understand when the time is right? When you no longer feel pain, you see no signs of redness, discharge, or any discomfort. If your home seems to heal before two months, wait anyway, better not to rush.
How to change the jewel?
Wash your hands well and make sure your new jewelry is clean. Remove the pin and rinse your hands. Insert the earring into your piercing. If there are scabs, gently remove them with a little warm water.
Now you know everything that is important to know about nose piercing. All you have to do is look for a safe studio, make an appointment, and choose the style that best suits you. If you liked the article, share it with your friends on your favorite social networks!
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