... Read moreHey everyone! So, you're thinking about a septum piercing, or maybe you just got one? I totally get it – it's such a cool and unique piercing that can really express your style! When I was considering mine, I had so many questions, especially about hiding it and how much it would hurt. I'm excited to share my take on everything you need to know, from the initial “ouch” to rocking different jewelry.
First off, let's quickly cover what a septum piercing actually is. It's pierced through the "sweet spot" in your nose, that thin bit of skin between the cartilage and the bottom of your nose. It's not supposed to go through the cartilage itself, which is why it's generally considered less painful than some other cartilage piercings. This is also where a "low septum piercing" might be placed, avoiding the tougher cartilage.
Now, let's talk PROS – because there are a lot! One of the biggest advantages, which was a huge draw for me, is how easy it is to hide. Seriously, if your workplace isn't piercing-friendly or you just want a more subtle look sometimes, you can easily flip up a horseshoe barbell into your nose. This was a lifesaver for me! Just make sure it's mostly healed before you start flipping it up and down, as constant movement can irritate a fresh piercing. Beyond that, I find it relatively low maintenance once healed, and the jewelry options are incredibly diverse. From dainty rings to bold, decorative clickers, there's truly something for every aesthetic. I love being able to switch up my look with different styles like minimalist rings or even small barbells.
But, of course, every piercing has its CONS. For me, the healing time was a bit longer than I initially expected. While some say 6-8 months, I found it took closer to 8-12 months for it to feel truly settled. This is because, as my piercer explained, it's inside your nose, which can be prone to more bacteria. So, keeping it meticulously clean is super important. And yes, "it... uhm... hurts" a bit during the actual piercing! It’s a sharp pinch, and your eyes will definitely water, but it's usually over quickly. The initial soreness and tenderness can last a few days to a week. Many wonder, "do septums hurt?" – I'd say it's more of a quick, intense discomfort rather than prolonged pain.
Healing and Care Tips:
My piercer emphasized using a sterile saline solution (never homemade salt water!) twice a day. Gently spray or soak a clean cotton swab and clean around the piercing. Avoid touching it with unwashed hands, and try not to push or pull on the jewelry. As mentioned, resist the urge to flip it up and down constantly, especially in the first few months. This "hidden septum piercing" trick is best for when it's well on its way to recovery. If you need to hide it early on, discuss getting a special septum piercing flipped up retainer placed by your piercer from the start. This is key for "how to hide a septum piercing while healing" effectively.
Jewelry Options and Cost:
The world of septum jewelry is vast! You'll find hoops, barbells (circular or straight), and retainers. For a minimalist style, a small, snug-fitting ring or a tiny horseshoe barbell is perfect. If you prefer something bolder, there are intricate clickers and ornate designs. "Different size septum piercings" refers to both the gauge (thickness) of the jewelry and the diameter of the ring. Make sure your piercer uses the appropriate gauge for initial healing. In terms of cost, the piercing itself can range anywhere from 50 to 100 dollars from a certified, reputable piercer, not including the jewelry, which can vary widely depending on the material and design. Always prioritize a professional, clean studio to ensure a safe experience.
Remember, every body is different, so what works for one person might be slightly different for another. But doing your research, as the original article wisely states, and listening to your piercer are your best bets for a happy, healthy septum piercing journey!