10 Easy Steps To Pierce Your Nostril * flexco.com

Gathering Essential Materials

Preparing for a safe and successful nostril piercing requires gathering the necessary materials beforehand. Essential items include:

Piercing Needle:

Choose a hollow, 14-gauge, piercing needle made of surgical steel or titanium. The gauge refers to the thickness of the needle, with lower numbers indicating thicker needles. A 14-gauge needle is a common size for nostril piercings.

Piercing Jewelry:

Select a piece of piercing jewelry made of surgical steel, titanium, or gold. Common choices include nostril screws, corkscrews, or studs. Ensure the jewelry is of an appropriate length and gauge for your nostril.

Disinfectant Solution:

Hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol is suitable for disinfecting the piercing needle and jewelry. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach.

Sterile Gauze Pads:

Gauze pads are used to clean the piercing site and apply pressure to stop any bleeding.

Surgical Gloves:

Wearing surgical gloves prevents the introduction of bacteria into the piercing site.

Other Optional Materials:

– Piercing kit (includes needle, jewelry, antiseptic solution, and gloves)
– Marking pen or pencil
– Ice pack for reducing swelling
– Pain reliever if desired

Preparing for the Piercing

Before getting your nostril pierced, there are a few things you can do to prepare and ensure a smooth piercing experience. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Choose a reputable piercer.

Do your research and find a licensed piercer with a good reputation. Check online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends, and ensure the piercer uses high-quality materials and sterile equipment.

2. Check your health and consider allergies.

Ensure you are healthy on the day of the piercing. Avoid alcohol or drug use beforehand, as they can thin your blood and result in excessive bleeding. Additionally, inform the piercer of any allergies you have, such as allergies to metals or anesthetics, to prevent potential adverse reactions.

Before the Piercing	What to Check
Health	Ensure you are healthy and not taking any medications that could affect the piercing.
Allergies	Inform the piercer of any allergies you have, especially to metals or anesthetics.
Hygiene	Clean the piercing area with soap and water before the procedure.
Piercing Location	Choose the nostril side you want pierced and inform the piercer.

Sterilizing Equipment and Jewelry

Ensuring sterile equipment is crucial to minimize the risk of infection during piercing. Here’s a comprehensive guide to sterilizing your tools and jewelry:

Equipment Sterilization

Autoclave: The most effective and recommended method for sterilizing metal tools (e.g., needle, forceps). Place the equipment in an autoclave and sterilize it at 121°C (250°F) for 30 minutes.
Boiling Water: For non-metal tools (e.g., cotton balls, gauze), immerse them in rapidly boiling water for 15 minutes. Ensure that the tools are completely submerged and discard any items that came into contact with contaminated surfaces.
Chemical Cold Sterilization: Using a hospital-grade chemical disinfectant specifically designed for piercing instruments. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct concentration and immersion time.

Jewelry Sterilization

Jewelry that comes into contact with the piercing should also be sterilized. Consider the following methods:

Autoclaving

Place the jewelry in an autoclave and sterilize it at 121°C (250°F) for 30 minutes. This method is safe for most metals.

Boiling Water

Submerge the jewelry in boiling water for 15 minutes. Ensure that the jewelry is completely submerged and avoid using water that has been boiling for a prolonged period.

Chemical Cold Sterilization

Immerse the jewelry in a chemical disinfectant specifically designed for piercing jewelry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct concentration and immersion time.

Other Methods

Some materials, such as gemstones and certain metals, may not be suitable for autoclaving or boiling. In such cases, consult a professional piercer for alternative sterilization methods.

Marking the Piercing Location

Once you have gathered your supplies, it’s time to mark the piercing location on your nostril. This is an important step, as you want to ensure that the piercing is placed in the correct spot. To mark the piercing location, follow these steps:

1. Clean the piercing area. Using a cotton ball or swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, clean the piercing area to remove any dirt or bacteria.

2. Determine the center of your nostril. To do this, hold a mirror up to your face and look straight ahead. The center of your nostril will be the highest point of the nostril, where the two sides meet.

3. Mark the piercing location. Using a sharpie or pen, mark the center of your nostril. Make sure that the mark is small and precise, as it will be the guide for your piercing.

4. Double-check the piercing location. Before you begin piercing, it’s important to double-check the piercing location to ensure that it is correct. To do this, step back and look at your nostril from a distance. The mark should be in the center of your nostril and not too close to the edge.

Here is a helpful table to summarize the steps for marking the piercing location:

Step	Description
1	Clean the piercing area.
2	Determine the center of your nostril.
3	Mark the piercing location.
4	Double-check the piercing location.

Securing the Jewelry

Once the piercing is complete, it’s essential to secure the jewelry properly to prevent it from falling out or causing discomfort.

Tighten the bead: If you’re using a bead for closure, gently tighten it by rotating it clockwise.
Bend the wire: If you’re using a bent wire, bend the ends inward to create a secure hold.
Close the hoop: If you’re using a hoop earring, carefully close the clasp by squeezing the ends together.
Check the fit: Ensure the jewelry is secure but not too tight. There should be a small amount of room to allow for swelling.
Avoid overtightening: Overtightening can cause discomfort and damage the piercing.
Clean the jewelry: Gently clean the jewelry and piercing site with a sterile saline solution or piercing aftercare spray.

Tips for Choosing the Right Jewelry

Jewelry Type	Recommended for	Pros	Cons
Labret stud	Initial piercing	Secure and easy to care for	May rotate or fall out easily
Hoop earring	Healed piercings	Stylish and versatile	Can be uncomfortable or get caught on things
Nostril screw	Long-term wear	Durable and less likely to fall out	May require professional assistance for insertion and removal

Aftercare Instructions

1. Clean Twice a Day

For the first 6 weeks after your piercing, clean it twice a day with a sterile saline solution. You can make your own saline solution by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt with 1 cup of warm water.

2. Soak Your Nose

Twice a day, soak a cotton ball in the saline solution and hold it against your nostril for 5-10 minutes. This will help to keep the piercing clean and prevent infection.

3. Don’t Touch or Play with Your Piercing

It is important to avoid touching or playing with your piercing, as this can introduce bacteria and cause infection.

4. Keep Your Bedding Clean

Change your pillowcase every night to prevent bacteria from building up on your pillow.

5. Avoid Swimming

Don’t swim in pools, lakes, or oceans while your piercing is healing. The water can contain bacteria that can cause infection.

6. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Alcohol and smoking can slow down the healing process and increase your risk of infection.

7. When to See a Doctor

See a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Symptom	Possible Cause
Redness	Infection
Swelling	Infection or allergic reaction
Pus or discharge	Infection
Pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication	Infection or other complication

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Pain or swelling

Apply ice and take over-the-counter pain medication. If the swelling or pain persists, consult a doctor.

2. Infection

Clean the piercing daily with saline solution and apply an antiseptic ointment. If the infection persists, consult a doctor.

3. Bleeding

Apply pressure to the piercing until the bleeding stops. If the bleeding is excessive, consult a doctor.

4. Odor

Clean the piercing daily with saline solution. If the odor persists, consult a doctor.

5. Discoloration

The piercing may temporarily become discolored. If the discoloration persists, consult a doctor.

6. Rejection

The piercing may be rejected by the body. If this occurs, the piercing will need to be removed.

7. Difficulty inserting jewelry

Use a taper or stretching tool to gradually increase the size of the piercing. If you are having difficulty, consult a professional piercer.

8. Jewelry falling out

Make sure the jewelry is the correct size and that the clasp is secure. If the jewelry continues to fall out, consult a professional piercer. Common causes of jewelry falling out include:

Improper jewelry size
Loose clasp
Crooked piercing
Scar tissue
Infection

Depending on the underlying cause, solutions for jewelry falling out may include:

Inserting a larger piece of jewelry
Tightening the clasp
Repiercing the nostril at a different angle
Applying scar tissue reducing ointments
Treating an infection

Variations in Nostril Piercings

Nostril piercings offer a wide range of styles and variations to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Here are some of the most common variations:

Single Nostril Piercing

The most basic variation, this involves piercing one nostril only, typically on the left or right side. It is a classic and understated option.

Double Nostril Piercing

As the name suggests, this variation involves piercing both nostrils. It creates a symmetrical and visually appealing look that is slightly more noticeable than a single piercing.

High Nostril Piercing

This variation involves piercing the nostril higher up, close to the crease of the nose. It gives the illusion of a more prominent nose bridge and can create a delicate and feminine look.

Low Nostril Piercing

Unlike the high nostril piercing, this variation is placed lower down, close to the bottom of the nostril. It is a subtle and discreet option that can be easily hidden depending on the jewelry worn.

Septum Piercing

This piercing is technically not a nostril piercing but is often grouped with them. It involves piercing the thin cartilage that separates the two nostrils, creating a unique and expressive look.

Rhino Piercing

Similar to the septum piercing, the rhino piercing is also placed on the septum but higher up, closer to the nasal bone. It creates a more prominent look and requires a larger gauge of jewelry.

Vertical Nostril Piercing

This variation involves piercing the nostril from the bottom to the top, creating a vertical line of jewelry. It is a bold and eye-catching option that is not as common as other variations.

Hidden Nostril Piercing

Also known as an invisible nostril piercing, this variation involves piercing the inside of the nostril, making the jewelry virtually invisible from the outside. It is a discreet option for those who prefer a less noticeable look.

Triad Nostril Piercing

This variation involves piercing the nostril in three locations: one high, one low, and one in the middle. It creates a unique and intricate look that is sure to turn heads.

Professional Piercing Recommendations

Seeking a professional piercing artist is crucial for a safe and desired outcome. Consider these tips when selecting a reputable piercer:

Research Piercers: Read reviews, check portfolios, and consult with friends and family for recommendations.
Visit the Studio: Prior to booking, visit the studio to assess its cleanliness and hygiene standards.
Check Credentials: Ensure the piercer has undergone proper training and certification from reputable organizations.
Consult with the Piercer: Discuss your piercing goals, concerns, and aftercare instructions with the piercer to ensure alignment.
Cleanliness and Sterilization: Verify the studio utilizes proper cleaning and sterilization techniques, including autoclaving all equipment.
High-Quality Jewelry: Implantable-grade jewelry from reputable manufacturers is essential for minimizing infection risk and promoting healing.
Proper Piercing Technique: Ensure the piercer uses appropriate needle sizes and techniques to reduce pain and maximize precision.
Aftercare Instructions: Obtain detailed aftercare instructions, including cleaning solution recommendations and healing timelines.
Follow-Up Appointments: Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
Price and Transparency: Inquire about pricing and payment options, ensuring there are no hidden costs or unexpected charges.

How To Pierce Your Nostril

Piercing your nostril is a relatively simple procedure that can be done at home with a few basic supplies. However, it is important to take precautions to avoid infection and other complications.

To pierce your nostril, you will need:

A piercing needle
A pair of sterile gloves
A sterile cotton ball
A bottle of rubbing alcohol
A pair of sterilized tweezers

Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin the piercing process.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

2. Put on the sterile gloves.

3. Clean the area around your nostril with rubbing alcohol.

4. Pinch the skin of your nostril together at the desired piercing location.

5. Insert the piercing needle through the skin, making sure to go through both sides.

6. Remove the needle and insert the jewelry into the hole.

7. Secure the jewelry in place.

8. Clean the area around the piercing with rubbing alcohol.

9. Apply a sterile cotton ball to the piercing and hold it in place for a few minutes.

Your nostril piercing will take a few weeks to heal. During this time, it is important to keep the area clean and dry. You should also avoid touching or playing with the piercing.