Nose piercings are a popular type of body piercing, ranked with the ears and belly button as three of the most popular piercings, according to TeensHealth. Both men and women can wear nose piercings, with several choices available for placement of the piercing. It is important for nose piercings to be done professionally and cared for diligently.
History
According to Cheyenne Morrison of Painful Pleasures, nose piercings were first documented 4,000 years ago. The tradition of nose piercing originated in the Middle East and is still widely practiced in parts of Africa and India. In some locations, the size of the nose ring symbolizes wealth. Either side of the nose may be pierced, though in India the left side is preferred. It is thought that the left side of the nose correlates to a female's reproductive organs and can make the process of childbirth go more smoothly.
Types
Nostrils are the most common place for a piercing. Either side can be pierced, and most frequently the nostril is pierced in the crease. Studs and circular rings can be easily worn in a nostril piercing. According to the Piercing Mart Blog, noses can also be pierced in the septum, which is the piece of cartilage separating the nostrils. In this type of piercing, the fleshy area between the tip of the nose and the cartilage is actually pierced---not the cartilage itself. Barbells, straight and circular, as well as captive bead rings can be worn in the septum. Bridge piercings are the final type of nose piercing. The skin at the top of the nose is pierced, between the eyes. Straight and curved barbells may be worn in this piercing. Bridge piercings may have more complications due to their proximity to the surface.
Piercing Process
Nose piercings should be done by a professional piercer, in a clean and reputable studio. For the most common type of nose piercing, the nostril is first cleaned inside and out. The piercer marks the spot with a washable pen and inserts a cork into the chosen nostril. According to Rae Schwarz of BellaOnline, a sterile straight needle is quickly pushed through the nostril and the sharp end is caught by the cork. The piercer then threads in the jewelry, most often a custom bent nose screw, which is secure and allows for swelling. The process is quick, taking less than five minutes.
Aftercare
Proper care of a nose piercing is important to prevent complications. Cleanse with a mild soap such as Provon. Alcohol and peroxide should be avoided to limit irritation and damage to healing skin cells. Soaking with salt water at least once a day can speed healing and remove dried blood and drainage. One cup of hot water should be mixed with 1 tsp. of sea salt, according to the website Piercology.
Complications
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, complications include hematomas, infections, damage to the nasal wall, scarring and jewelry that becomes embedded in the flesh. Piercings done at a reputable piercer with proper sterilization, correctly sized jewelry and careful observance to aftercare instructions can help prevent these complications.
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