Septum piercing, once considered a sign of irresponsibility, is now viral. According to Jewellerybox, this type of piercing is the most popular worldwide, with an average of 162,000 searches and 1 million hashtags on Instagram.
Ever since Jessica Biel wore the trend in 2013, several celebrities have adopted the new fashion, which has led others to do the same.
With the high rise of piercings among youths, the trend doesn’t look like one that’ll die soon.
Septum piercing is attractive and fashionable, but like every other piercing, it follows a particular process and has several associated factors.
Before getting your septum pierced, there are various things you need to consider and several questions you might have no answer to.
This article will extensively discuss Septum piercing, how it is done, the pain and healing process, health effects, and other related issues.
What is Septum Piercing?
For better understanding, the septum is a partition between the nostrils. Therefore, septum piercing is a small opening that goes through that nasal septum.
Like the hole of your usual earrings, the soft flesh is pierced for jewelry to go through easily.
However, this piercing should not penetrate the nasal cartilage but rather the soft spot below the septum.
Therefore, while it might seem normal to get such a piercing, you should ensure that only a professional operates.
How Do I Get a Septum Piercing?
Different people use different techniques to pierce the septum. But before that, you must ensure that whatever method your artist uses is safe and less painful.
The materials a professional will need include
- A needle (often called a “freehand”)
- Forceps for holding the nose open
- A receiving tube to support the tissue on the other end while the needle goes through
Septum piercing entails the following:
- Lie down on a table or a recliner
- The artist disinfected the inner part of the nostril.
- The piercer uses a clamp to hold the septum
- Slowly, the piercer passes the needle through your nose
- Jewelry follows, and the piercing is complete
The entire process is usually quick and takes only a few minutes.
How Painful is Septum Piercing?
Septum piercings go through the flesh, which means that they hurt. Though everyone has different pain tolerance, you will feel uncomfortable; after all, a needle passes through a delicate part of your skin.
However, the pain shouldn’t be awful—it should be a little disturbing but not bad. Most people describe the sensation as “unusual” and sometimes “as though they’re about to sneeze.”
To feel less discomfort, try to relax through the entire process.
Sometimes, you might experience tenderness at the tip of your nose for a few days, but it is nothing serious.
How Long Does It Take for the Pain to Heal?
The healing process differs for everyone. For some, it might take a few weeks; for some, it might take three months; for others, it could take longer.
However, during the healing process, do not change your jewelry.
Additionally, you could facilitate the healing process by the healthy methods you practice.
These include following the aftercare instructions, avoiding touching the piercing frequently, and your general health.
Tip for Healing a New Septum Piercing
Since the piercing is inside the nose, you have to pay attention to keeping the area clean.
This avoids accumulating dirt, which could lead to other health complications.
Furthermore, you will feel the itch to touch and adjust your jewelry. Try to avoid this till the healing process is complete.
To keep your piercing clean and hasten the healing process, here are some tips:
Clean Your Septum Piercing With Saline
Use a saline spray on the pierced area at least twice daily. However, ensure that your spray contains no additives, especially tree oil, which could be dangerous for piercings.
Adjust Your Jewelry Carefully
It will be impossible to go weeks without touching your piercings. Sometimes, the jewelry might appear crooked and need to be adjusted.
Nonetheless, you should exercise caution when touching your piercing. Try not to touch it more than twice daily, and always ensure your hands are clean before touching the spot.
How Much Does Septum Piercing Cost?
The price of septum piercing may vary with different factors, and these include:
- The piecer or the artist
- The location of the studio
- The jewelry used
The jewelry is usually added to the cost price; however, it is necessary to confirm that fact beforehand.
Additionally, extras like aftercare products will incur extra costs. Nonetheless, the average pricing for septum piercing is $50 – $90.
Materials for Septum Piercing
Once your piercing is fully healed, you can pierce it in the market. However, at the initial stage, the Association of Professional Piercers recommends these metals:
Surgical stainless steel (SSS)
SSS is highly recommended because it is safe, affordable, and releases a low rate of nickel. However, consider using other metals if a person has a severe Nickel allergy.
Niobium
Niobium is relatively safe but not approved for piercing or medical implants.
Titanium
Unlike Niobium, titanium can be used for medical implants. It is also very hygienic for piercings because it is hypoallergenic and safe for everyone. However, it is pretty expensive compared to SSS and Niobium.
14-karat or Higher Gold
If you prefer a gold piercing, it must be 14-karat or higher. It could be any shade of gold, but it must be solid, not gold-plated or filled. As expected, these are the most expensive of the recommended metals.
Side Effects of Septum Piercing
Infection
An opening in the skin could allow bacteria to enter the body, leading to infection. Furthermore, bad health habits could cause severe reactions, such as swelling, pain, redness, and discharge. To avoid these, follow simple aftercare tips.
Allergic Reactions
Some people are allergic to metallic substances such as nickel. Before piercing, ensure you communicate these allergies to your piercer. If you’re not sure about your metal allergies, employ other means to check for them. Better still, opt for metals like Titanium.
Tearing
Using the wrong jewelry could lead to tearing the septum.
Septal Hematoma
A septal hematoma happens when the piercing damages the tissues lining the cartilage and the blood vessels. This could lead to pain, swelling, and nasal congestion.
Bloodborne Diseases
The use of contaminated needles and other materials could lead to the contraction of certain diseases like tetanus, HIV, and Hepatitis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Everyone Get a Septum Piercing?
Getting your septum pierced is your personal decision. However, if you have a crooked nose, you should rethink this option, as the jewelry would draw more attention to that part of your face. Furthermore, if you are prone to sneezing, allergies, and other nasal challenges, you should avoid this type of piercing.
How Can I Change My Jewelry?
Before you think of changing your jewelry style, wait until the piercing is completely healed. Depending on your body and lifestyle, the healing process could take a few weeks. Nonetheless, do not change your jewelry before healing.
What Are the Latest Septum Piercing Styles?
The piercing trends change all the time. Nevertheless, here are some piercing styles that are on the high-rise
- Septum clicker
- Gold Septum Clicker
- Spiked circular barbell
- Faux nose ring
- Septum retainer
- Seamless septum ring
- Captive bead ring
Should I Be Worried if My Piercing Starts to Smell?
Piercings often develop a distinct smell after a while due to the accumulation of dead skin. However, the smell should not be too bad.
Regular cleaning of the spot will reduce the smell around the piercing.
Can I Remove a Septum Piercing?
You cannot remove a piercing, but you can wait for it to close. So, if you eventually do not like the idea, remove your jewelry and wait for the hole to close.
Nonetheless, it is essential to note that if the piercing isn’t completely healed by this time, continue the aftercare routine.
How Do I Know if Something is Wrong With My Piercing?
Here are some symptoms that signify something is wrong
- Severe Itching
- Severe pain and swelling
- thick discharge or offensive-smelling pus
- Fever
- A lump around the piercing
What Do I Do When There is a Problem With My Septum Piercing?
When you notice anything unusual, discontinue using the jewelry and sanitize the spot regularly. But, if the symptoms only worsen, visit your doctor.
Conclusion
Septum piercing has its attractions and downsides, but it remains a fashion trend we will see more of. If you think you can handle all that comes with this trend, go for it.
