Chic, timeless, and a little rebellious — but there’s more to it than just picking a cute stud.
Nose piercings have been worn for thousands of years — across cultures, continents, and aesthetics. They’ve symbolized beauty, rebellion, spirituality, and everything in between.
At Body Altar, we see them as what they truly are: a piece of fine jewelry you wear on your face.
Here’s everything you should know before you get one — from placement and pain to healing, jewelry, and aftercare.
1. The Different Types of Nose Piercings
Nostril Piercing
The classic. Usually placed along the natural curve of your nostril for balance with your facial structure. Works beautifully with small gemstones, solid gold, or minimalist studs.
High Nostril
Placed slightly higher on the bridge for a more striking, fashion-forward look. It heals slower and can limit jewelry options, but the aesthetic payoff is real.
Septum Piercing
Through the soft tissue between your nostrils — not cartilage. Heals quickly and can be flipped up for discretion. One of the most versatile and symbolic piercings, worn for centuries across Indigenous, South Asian, and African cultures.
Bridge Piercing
Technically through the skin on the bridge of the nose. Unique and bold, but anatomy-dependent and prone to migration. Always get a professional consult before considering this one.
2. Does It Hurt?
Yes — but not nearly as much as people think.
Nose piercings are quick, and most clients describe the sensation as a sharp pinch that’s over in seconds.
You might tear up (your sinuses are right there), but that’s reflex, not drama.
3. Healing Time and Aftercare
Average healing time:
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Nostril: 4–6 months
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Septum: 2–3 months
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Bridge or High Nostril: 6–9 months
Every body heals differently. What matters is consistent aftercare:
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Clean twice a day with sterile saline spray (not alcohol or hydrogen peroxide).
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Don’t twist, turn, or remove jewelry early.
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Avoid makeup, sunscreen, or skincare products near the piercing until healed.
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Change your pillowcase regularly and avoid sleeping directly on that side.
At Body Altar, we only use professional-grade sterile saline and implant-safe jewelry made from titanium or solid gold to give your skin the best chance at perfect healing.
4. What Jewelry Options Are Available?
We’re long past the days of generic studs. Your nose piercing can be as subtle or as dramatic as your personality.
Popular styles include:
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Threadless flat-back studs — sleek, modern, and comfortable.
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Hoops and seamless rings — perfect for healed piercings with an effortless vibe.
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Gemstone settings — diamond, onyx, opal, or custom-cut stones.
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Gold options — yellow, rose, or white gold for hypoallergenic elegance.
All of our jewelry is implant-grade, nickel-free, and designed for longevity — because your piercing deserves more than “starter jewelry.”
5. Common Healing Concerns
Piercing Bump or Keloid?
Most bumps are irritation, not scarring. They’re caused by friction, poor jewelry quality, or premature cleaning with harsh products. A professional piercer can help reduce it safely — don’t play Dr. TikTok.
Crusting or Dryness?
Totally normal. It’s your body healing. Gently clean with saline and leave it alone.
Redness or Tenderness After a Few Weeks?
Still normal, especially for nostril piercings that get bumped or touched often. If it’s persistently painful or swollen, come in for a checkup — we’ll take care of you.
6. When Can You Change the Jewelry?
Not until it’s fully healed.
That means smooth skin, no tenderness, and no discharge — usually around 4–6 months for nostrils and a bit longer for high placements.
At Body Altar, we offer professional jewelry changes using sterile tools and techniques so you can safely upgrade your look when the time’s right.
7. How to Choose the Right Studio
You’re trusting someone to puncture your face — this is not the time to go bargain hunting.
Look for:
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Single-use sterile needles (never piercing guns)
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Licensed piercers
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Autoclave sterilization
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Premium implant-grade jewelry
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Transparent aftercare guidance
If your piercer can’t tell you what metal they’re using — or if the jewelry comes from an unverified source — that’s your cue to walk out.
The Bottom Line
Nose piercings are one of the most universal, expressive forms of adornment — whether you’re going for timeless elegance or rebellious edge.
When done safely, with high-quality jewelry and proper aftercare, they can last a lifetime.
At Body Altar, we treat piercing as art and anatomy — not a trend.
Your face deserves nothing less than expertise, precision, and luxury.
