The septum piercing, which is a popular form of body modification, is a culturally relevant body modification that is placed in the center of the nose.
Let’s explore the world of septum piercings and solve its secrets before you adorn your face with this alluring accessory.
Points to Remember Before Septum Piercing:
- Anatomy: Not everyone’s nose is suited for a septum piercing. Consult a reputable piercer to assess your anatomy and determine if you have the “sweet spot,” a thin strip of tissue ideal for piercing.
- Commitment: Healing can take 6-8 months, and complete healing might extend to a year. Be prepared for the long haul and the aftercare routine.
- Professionalism: Choose a piercer with ample experience and a sterilized environment. This minimizes infection risk and ensures proper placement.
- Lifestyle: Consider your lifestyle and potential conflicts with the piercing. Certain workplaces might have dress code restrictions, and sports or physical activities could pose challenges.
Cost of Septum Piercing
The cost of a septum piercing varies depending on location, piercer’s experience, and jewelry used. Generally, expect to pay between $30 and $80 for the piercing itself, with the jewelry costing extra.
Opt for high-quality implant-grade titanium or surgical steel to avoid irritation and allergic reactions.
The Piercing Process:
The following steps are involved in the piercing process:
- Sterilization: The piercer will sterilize all the equipment they’ll be using, including the needle and jewelry.
- Clamping: The piercer may use a small clamp to hold the sweet spot in place for stability.
- Piercing: Using a hollow needle, the piercer will gently puncture the sweet spot. You might feel a pinch or pressure, but the pain is usually fleeting.
Jewelry Materials:
Once healed, you can explore a vast array of septum jewelry. Popular choices include:
- Titanium and surgical steel: Biocompatible and hypoallergenic, ideal for initial piercings and sensitive skin.
- Gold and silver: Available in various styles and colors, but require extra care to prevent tarnishing.
- Acrylic and plastic: Affordable and lightweight, but not suitable for long-term wear as they can harbor bacteria.
Pain Perception:
Individual pain tolerance plays a role, but septum piercings are generally considered less painful than other facial piercings due to the thin tissue involved. You might experience a quick pinch and watery eyes, but the discomfort is short-lived.
How long does it take a Septum Piercing to heal?
Here’s a breakdown of the different stages of septum piercing healing:
- Initial Stage (0-2 weeks): Expect swelling, redness, and some tenderness around the piercing. Avoid touching the area with unwashed hands and stick to your piercer’s aftercare instructions for cleaning and saline solution use.
- Active Healing Phase (2-6 months): Swelling and redness should gradually decrease, but the piercing might still feel sensitive. Continue with consistent aftercare and avoid harsh activities that could snag or irritate the piercing.
- Maturation Phase (6-12 months): The piercing should feel almost healed by this point, with minimal or no swelling or discomfort. You can start experimenting with different jewelry after consulting your piercer.
Jewelry Choices After Healing:
Once healed, the world of septum jewelry opens up! You can experiment with different shapes, sizes, and materials like:
- Clickers: Easy to wear and remove with a hinged mechanism.
- Segment rings: Offer diverse styles and allow for customization.
- Tusks and spikes: Bold statement pieces for a unique look.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Unique aesthetic: Adds a touch of edge and individuality to your style.
- Self-expression: A powerful way to showcase your personality and beliefs.
- Relatively pain-free: Healing is manageable with proper care.
- Versatile jewelry options: Endless possibilities for personalization.
Cons:
- Healing commitment: Requires dedicated aftercare for several months.
- Potential workplace conflict: Consider your professional environment.
- Social stigma: Might face judgment from certain individuals.
- Risk of infection: Improper care can lead to complications.
Side Effects to Be Aware Of:
While rare, potential side effects include:
- Infection: Redness, swelling, and pus require immediate medical attention.
- Scarring: Proper piercing technique and aftercare minimize this risk.
- Migration: The piercing moves due to improper placement or jewelry.
How to Change Your Septum Jewelry:
Once healed, changing your septum jewelry becomes a breeze. Follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly and sterilize the new jewelry.
- Gently twist the existing jewelry open or unscrew the ball.
- Insert the new piece, ensuring it clicks or screws securely.
- Clean the pierced area again with saline solution.
