A double septum piercing is a unique piercing where two piercings are made in the septum, the thin wall of cartilage that separates the nostrils.
This type of piercing allows for the wearing of two separate pieces of jewelry, such as rings or barbells, in the nose, giving an edgy and distinctive look. The process involves carefully puncturing the septum in two different spots, usually one above the other.
Before getting your septum piercing done, go through this article to know everything about the piercing. We will walk you through the procedure, pain level, healing time, and aftercare of septum piercing.
Ready to dive in?
Septum Piercing vs Nostril Piercing
People often get confused between septum piercing and nostril piercing. Here’s a quick comparison for you.
Comparison Factors | Nostril Piercing | Septum Piercing |
Procedure Location | Involves piercing the soft tissue around the nostrils. | Performed through the septum, the cartilage dividing the nostrils. |
Healing Time | Generally takes 4 to 6 months to heal fully. | Typically heals within 6 to 8 weeks. |
Pain Level | Tends to be slightly more painful due to nerve endings in the area. | Often described as a brief, sharp pain; generally considered less painful. |
Jewelry Options | Usually adorned with studs, hoops, or screws. | Allows for a variety of rings, including horseshoe rings, captive bead rings, and clickers. |
How Painful Is Septum Piercing?
Septum piercing involves piercing the thin strip of tissue at the base of the nose.
The experience of pain is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. Generally, many people report that a septum piercing feels like a sharp pinch or pressure, followed by a brief, intense sensation.
The pain is usually described as moderate and more bearable compared to other types of piercings.
The discomfort is often brief, lasting only a few seconds during the actual piercing process. However, the area may remain tender, sensitive, or slightly swollen for a few days following the procedure.
The skill and technique of the piercer can also significantly affect the pain level. A professional and experienced piercer who uses proper equipment and technique can minimize the discomfort.
What’s The Procedure for Septum Piercing?
Below is an overview of the typical steps involved:
- Consultation and Preparation: Before the piercing begins, a professional piercer usually discusses the process, potential risks, and aftercare instructions with you. They will also help you choose appropriate jewelry.
- Marking the Spot: The piercer carefully marks the spot where the piercing will go. This is typically done on the thin strip of skin at the front of the nasal septum, known as the “sweet spot,” which is less cartilaginous and easier to pierce.
- Sanitization: The piercer cleans your nose and the surrounding area to reduce the risk of infection. They will also sterilize their equipment and wear gloves for hygiene.
- Clamping: A special clamp or forceps might be used to hold the septum in place. This ensures stability and accuracy during the piercing process.
- Piercing: The piercer then inserts a needle through the marked spot on the septum. This is usually done swiftly to minimize discomfort. The size of the needle corresponds to the gauge of jewelry chosen.
- Inserting Jewelry: Once the needle is through, the piercer will immediately follow it with the chosen jewelry. This is typically done in one smooth motion to reduce pain and discomfort.
Healing And Aftercare Tips for Septum Piercing
Healing and aftercare are twp of the most important aspects of getting a septum piercing, as they ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection. Here’s a detailed guide:
Healing Process
Duration: In general, a septum piercing heals within 6 to 8 weeks. However, the duration can be different based on factors like your overall health and how well you follow aftercare guidelines.
Initial Swelling and Discomfort: It’s normal to experience some swelling, redness, and tenderness immediately after the piercing. This usually subsides within a few days.
Avoiding Infection: During the healing period, the piercing is susceptible to infection. Signs of infection include excessive redness, swelling, pain, or discharge.
Aftercare Instructions
Cleaning: Clean the piercing twice a day using a saline solution. Get a clean cotton swab or gauze, soak them in the saline solution, and gently clean both sides of the piercing. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or antibiotic ointments, as these can irritate the piercing and hinder healing.
Avoiding Irritation: Do not touch or twist the jewelry unnecessarily, as this can introduce bacteria and cause irritation. Be cautious when dressing or performing activities to avoid snagging the piercing.
Health and Diet: Maintain good overall health. A healthy diet, adequate hydration, and sufficient sleep can aid in the healing process.
Monitoring for Migration and Rejection: Occasionally, body piercings can migrate (move from their original position) or be rejected (pushed out of the body). Regularly check your piercing for signs of these issues, such as increased visibility of the jewelry or changes in the piercing hole’s location.
Avoiding Harsh Facial Cleansers: When washing your face, be mindful of the products you use. Harsh chemicals or scrubs can irritate the piercing. Try to keep facial cleansers, toners, and moisturizers away from the pierced area.
Material and Sizing Guides for Septum Piercing
Here’s a guide to help you understand the materials and sizing for septum piercings:
Materials
Surgical Stainless Steel: This is a common and affordable option. It’s hypoallergenic for most people, but those with nickel allergies should be cautious.
Titanium: Highly recommended for new piercings, titanium is lightweight, hypoallergenic, and resistant to body fluids. It’s ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Niobium: Niobium is also hypoallergenic and often used for healing piercings. It’s a bit heavier than titanium but can be anodized to various colors.
Gold: If you choose gold, ensure it’s at least 14k and nickel-free to avoid skin irritation. Avoid gold-plated jewelry as it can wear off and expose underlying metals.
Glass: Glass is a safe option for people with allergies or sensitivities. Glass is smooth, non-porous, and comes in various colors and designs.
Avoid materials like sterling silver or costume jewelry for initial piercings, as they can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Sizing
Gauge (Thickness): The standard gauge size for septum piercings is 16G (1.2mm) or 14G (1.6mm). Your piercer will recommend the best size for you, but 16G is often chosen for its minimal invasiveness.
Diameter: The diameter needed depends on your anatomy and the desired look. Common diameters range from 5/16″ (8mm) to 3/8″ (10mm). A smaller diameter results in a snugger fit against the nostrils, while a larger diameter hangs lower.
What Type of Jewelry to Wear With Septum Piercing?
There are a lot of options for you when it comes to septum piercing. Here are the trendiest jewelry options for septum piercing.
Captive Bead Rings (CBRs): These are a classic and popular choice, featuring a metal ring with a small bead that snaps into place. They provide a simple yet elegant look. The price range for basic stainless steel or titanium is typically around $10 to $50. More elaborate designs or those made with precious metals like gold can be significantly more expensive.
Circular Barbells (Horseshoe Rings): Shaped like a horseshoe, they allow for easy flipping up into the nostrils for concealment. These typically range from $15 to $60 for basic metals. Designs with decorative ends or those made from higher-end materials may cost more.
Seamless Rings: Known for their sleek and continuous appearance without beads or visible closures, these rings offer a minimalist look. Prices for seamless rings usually start from $15 and can go up to $70 or more, especially for those made from high-quality materials like gold or platinum.
Clicker Rings: Featuring a hinged segment for easy opening and closing, clicker rings are user-friendly and come in a variety of designs. The price for these can range from $20 to over $100, with the higher end featuring intricate designs or embellishments like gemstones.
Segment Rings: These rings have a removable segment for easier insertion, similar in appearance to seamless rings. Segment rings are typically priced between $20 and $80, with the cost increasing for more complex designs or superior-quality materials.
Retainers: Ideal for keeping your piercing discreet, retainers are made of clear or flesh-toned materials and are generally less expensive. They are priced around $5 to $20, reflecting the simpler materials used, like acrylic or glass.
Decorative and Custom Pieces: For a unique look, custom or decorative pieces come in a wide range of designs, from intricate patterns to gemstone inlays. The price for these can start at around $30 and can go up to $200 or more, particularly for custom designs or those made with precious stones or metals.
Wrapping Up
Now, it’s time to wrap up! We’ve tried our best to guide you about septum piercing.
This piercing involves piercing the thin cartilage between your nostrils, with a moderate pain level and a relatively quick healing time of 6-8 weeks.
Proper aftercare, including regular cleaning and avoiding irritation, is crucial. When choosing jewelry, consider materials like surgical steel, titanium, and gold, and ensure the right size for comfort.
If you follow our instructions properly, you’re going to have the best experience!