Are you considering getting a nose piercing? If so, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. In this article, we’ll look at the different types of nose piercings, the benefits of each type, and some of the risks associated with each procedure. We’ll also discuss some options you should consider before making your decision. So, whether you’re curious about nose piercings or planning to get one, read on to learn everything you need to know!
How Bad Do Nose Piercings Hurt?
When you get a nose piercing, it will sting a little and may bring tears to your eyes (water). However, there isn’t much pain with nose piercings compared to other body piercings. Keep in mind that everyone will rate the pain differently, and the needle that’s used is tiny, thin, and very sharp, so the procedure is over in a matter of seconds.
The pain of nostril piercings compared to septum piercings is about the same. Also, the more relaxed you are when getting your piercing, the less you will feel the pain. The pain of a nose piercing is totally bearable. It may be just enough pain to bring water to your eyes. It happens often with nose piercings due to the tissue in the nose being connected to the sinuses. When you sneeze, it sends nerve signals to the eyes, telling them to water.
Maybe you went with a friend to have their nose pierced and noticed their eyes fill with water; well, just so you know, it wasn’t because it hurt, but a normal reaction when the nose tissues are stimulated. Most people will tell you the pain is somewhat like a pinch & a twinge or as if you need to sneeze. So, if you are undecided about having a nose piercing, you shouldn’t let that be your deciding factor.
How Long Do Nose Piercings Take to Heal?
There is going to be a little pain with your nose being pierced. There may also be some swelling, tenderness, blood, and possibly bruising. You could even have soreness, tenderness, and possibly redness for up to 3 weeks afterward.
It takes 2-4 months for pierced nostrils to heal completely, and 3-4 months for a pierced septum to heal completely.
How Do You Care for New Nose Piercings?
To care for your nose until it’s healed:
- Always wash your hands before handling or touching your newly pierced nose; this also includes nose jewelry.
- Use gauze pads that have been soaked in a saline solution to gently clean your nose, and use a paper towel to gently pat dry.
- Totally avoid getting into any water you are not absolutely certain is clean (and nobody else has been in). This means staying out of lakes, rivers, swimming pools, and hot tubs.
- Never use antibacterial ointments on your newly pierced nose.
- Do not remove your initial nose jewelry before the piercing has completely healed.
- It is important that you sleep on clean sheets, especially clean pillowcases.
- Only take showers until healed (no bathtubs).
Signs of a Nose Piercing Problem
- Red
- Swollen
- Painful
- The skin around the piercing is tender
- Types of Nose Piercing Jewelry
- Fever
- A greenish or yellowish discharge oozes from the site of the piercing
Types of Nose Piercing Jewelry
There are various types of jewelry materials to choose from for a nose piercing. Below are several types:
- Niobium
- Solid gold
- Titanium
- Surgical Stainless Steel
Nose Piercing Jewelry Styles
Like with different types of materials, there are various styles of jewelry for the nose, including:
Captive Bead Rings
For those who want bolder nose piercing, you can choose to have a captive bead ring instead of hoops. This type provides a hoop style with a bead to showcase a diamond, a gemstone, or another unique option. On the other hand, other nose jewelry styles are more popular than the captive bead ring.
Seamless Rings
The most popular hoop style is the seamless rings for nose piercings. It’s a slender hoop that sits up against the nose to make it more noticeable than studs are, and they are subtle enough that they are accepted in environments that are considered professional.
Nose Studs
Out of all the jewelry that is made for a pierced nose, the most popular are still nose studs. Styles range from fun charms to dainty diamond nose studs, letting you make your own nose piercing as unique as you want to.
There are three main prong types for nose piercings, they are:
- The bone
- The L-shape
- The twist
Faux Hoops
Another popular option is the faux hoops. This style of the faux hoop has a nose stud that wraps the charm around the nose, and there are C-shaped hoops, which also wrap around the nose but do not close completely like the seamless hoop.