Nose piercings offer a variety of options, each with its own unique placement and aesthetic appeal. Most commonly, nose piercings are situated through the nasal ala or the cartilaginous structure covering the nostril. However, piercings through the columella (the skin covering the nasal septum) and other areas along the nose, such as the Third Eye and bridge, are also possible.
Cost Considerations
The cost of a nose piercing typically ranges between $25 and $30 per piercing, excluding the cost of jewelry. It’s essential to choose a reputable piercer operating in a hygienic and clean studio environment. Each state has specific protocols for body modification procedures, which can be found on their respective Department of Health websites.
Challenges of Nose Piercings
Nose piercings come with their own set of challenges, including difficulty in cleaning, susceptibility to infection, the risk of jewelry coming loose during sleep, and varying levels of pain depending on the piercing location.
Choosing the Right Jewelry Material
Selecting the appropriate jewelry material is crucial for nose piercings. Metals like titanium and implant-grade steel are less likely to trigger allergic reactions compared to nickel, which is a common allergen causing contact dermatitis. Solid 14K gold or titanium are recommended by experts like Brooks for nose piercings.
Variations of Nose Piercings
Beyond the traditional nostril and septum piercings, there are numerous other nose piercing options available:
Nostril Piercing: Positioned through the center of the nostril, accommodating various jewelry styles.
Septum Piercing: Passes through the cartilage wall dividing the left and right nostrils, also known as a bull ring.
Double Nose Piercing: Features two piercings on one side of the nostril or one on each side.
Austin Bar Piercing: Runs through the tip of the nose without piercing the septum or nasal cavity.
Bridge Piercing: Placed on the bridge of the nose between the eyes using a straight or curved barbell.
High Nostril Piercing: Sits slightly higher on the bridge of the nose compared to a standard nostril piercing.
Nasallang Piercing: Passes through both nostrils and the inner septum, similar to the Austin Bar piercing.
Rhino Piercing: Unique piercing passing through the tip of the nose and exiting above the septum, resembling a rhino’s horn.
Choosing the Right Jewelry Type
For initial piercings, studs are recommended due to their lower stress levels and reduced tendency for manipulation. Different types of jewelry include press fit, nostril screws, L-shape rings, pin-style rings, hoop nose rings, seamless ring hoop nose rings, bone prongs, and faux hoops.
Pain Management and Healing Time
Pain associated with nose piercings is typically minor, ranging from a three to four on a scale of one to ten. Discomfort may be experienced momentarily during the piercing process, followed by a soft bruise. Proper aftercare, including cleaning the area with saline solution and avoiding twisting or rotating the piercing, is essential for healing.
Managing Side Effects and Aftercare
Yellow discharge and inflammation are common side effects of nose piercings. Saline solution can help alleviate these symptoms, while avoiding hydrogen peroxide or alcohol for cleaning. If signs of infection arise, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, consulting a dermatologist for topical antibiotics is recommended. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene practices, such as washing the area gently with soap and water and refraining from soaking in pools or hot tubs, can aid in the healing process.
Conclusion
Nose piercings offer a versatile and fashionable form of self-expression, with various placement options and jewelry styles to suit individual preferences. By understanding the cost, pain level, and aftercare requirements associated with nose piercings, individuals can make informed decisions and enjoy a safe and successful piercing experience.