Nose Piercings: How to Choose the Right One & Care for It
Nose piercings are one of the most popular ways to express your personal style. Whether you're considering a classic nostril piercing or something more distinctive like a septum or high nostril piercing, there are several types of nose piercings to choose from, each offering its own look, jewellery options and healing journey.
Choosing the right nose piercing isn't just about style. Your anatomy, lifestyle and the time you're willing to commit to healing can all influence which placement is right for you.
In this guide, we'll explore the most popular types of nose piercings, explain what to expect during the nose piercing healing time and help you choose the right jewellery and aftercare routine for your new piercing.
Quick Answer: If you're getting your first nose piercing, a traditional nostril piercing is usually the easiest place to start. It suits most people, offers plenty of jewellery choices and typically heals in around 4 to 6 months with proper care. If you're looking for something more distinctive, a septum or high nostril piercing could be a great alternative.
Jump to a section
- Types of Nose Piercings: The Most Popular Placements
- How to Choose the Right Nose Piercing
- Choosing the Right Nose Jewellery
- Nose Piercing Aftercare
- FAQs
Types of Nose Piercings: The Most Popular Placements
There are several types of nose piercings, but the nostril, high nostril and septum are by far the most popular. Each offers a different look, jewellery style and healing experience, so understanding the differences can help you choose the piercing that's right for you.
| Piercing | Best For | Typical Healing Time | Common Jewellery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nostril | First-time piercings | 4–6 months | Studs and hoops |
| High Nostril | A unique, modern look | 6–9 months | Studs |
| Septum | Versatile styling | 2–4 months | Clickers and rings |
Nostril Piercing
A nostril piercing is the most popular choice and an excellent option if it's your first facial piercing. Positioned on either side of the nose, it can be styled with a simple stud during healing and a hoop once fully healed.
Its versatility is one of the biggest reasons people choose it. Whether your style is minimalist or more statement-led, a nostril piercing works beautifully with a wide range of jewellery designs.
High Nostril Piercing
A high nostril piercing sits above a traditional nostril piercing, creating a more distinctive and contemporary look. It's often worn as a pair or combined with a standard nostril piercing for a layered style.
Because of its higher placement, healing generally takes a little longer, and jewellery choices are usually limited to studs.
Septum Piercing
Unlike a nostril piercing, a septum piercing passes through the soft tissue beneath the nasal cartilage rather than the cartilage itself. When performed by an experienced piercer, many people find it's more comfortable than they expected.
One of the biggest advantages of a septum piercing is its versatility. From understated clickers to decorative rings, it's easy to switch up your style once your piercing has fully healed.
How to Choose the Right Nose Piercing
Choosing a nose piercing isn't just about following trends. The right placement should suit your personal style, fit comfortably into your lifestyle and complement your natural anatomy.
Your Personal Style
A nostril piercing is a timeless choice that's easy to personalise with different studs or hoops once fully healed. If you prefer something more distinctive, a septum piercing offers plenty of styling versatility, while a high nostril piercing creates a modern, eye-catching look.
Your Anatomy
While many people search for nose piercings for different nose types, there's no single placement that's right for everyone. Your nose shape, anatomy and the available space for jewellery all influence the best placement. An experienced piercer can assess your anatomy and recommend a piercing that complements your features and sits comfortably.
Your Lifestyle
Think about how your piercing will fit into your daily routine. If you regularly wear sports equipment, frequently touch your face or have workplace requirements regarding visible jewellery, these are all things worth considering before choosing a placement.
Healing Commitment
Every piercing takes time to heal, so it's worth considering how much aftercare you're prepared to commit to. A nostril piercing is often a popular first choice, while a high nostril piercing generally requires a little more patience during healing.
Choosing the Right Nose Jewellery
The right jewellery isn't just about style. The material, design and fit all play a part in how comfortable your piercing feels and how it looks.
Choose a Quality Material
For a new piercing, many professional piercers recommend implant-grade ASTM F136 titanium. Titanium is lightweight, waterproof, tarnish-resistant and hypoallergenic, making it a popular choice for sensitive skin and everyday wear.
Once your piercing has fully healed, you can explore a wider range of jewellery styles while still choosing high-quality materials such as stainless steel.
Choose a Style You Love
The jewellery you choose will depend on your piercing and the look you're trying to achieve.
- Nostril studs and labrets offer a timeless, understated look.
- Nose hoops create a classic style once a nostril piercing has fully healed.
- Septum clickers and rings are available in a wide range of simple and decorative designs.
Make Sure It Fits Correctly
Choosing the correct gauge and diameter helps your jewellery sit comfortably and look its best. If you're unsure which size is right for your piercing, speak to your piercer before changing your jewellery.
Nose Piercing Aftercare
Looking after your new nose piercing is an important part of the healing process. While your piercer will provide aftercare instructions specific to your piercing, the general principles are similar for most piercings.
For a step-by-step guide on cleaning, healing and looking after your jewellery, read our New Piercing Aftercare Guide.
FAQs
Which nose piercing is best for beginners?
A traditional nostril piercing is often recommended for beginners. It suits many face shapes, offers plenty of jewellery options and is a popular first facial piercing.
Can I get a nose piercing with a hoop instead of a stud?
This depends on the placement and your piercer's recommendation. While some piercers may fit a hoop initially, many recommend starting with a stud before switching to a hoop once the piercing has fully healed.
What is the best material for a new nose piercing?
Implant-grade ASTM F136 titanium is a popular choice for new nose piercings because it's lightweight, waterproof, tarnish-resistant and suitable for sensitive skin. Many professional piercers recommend titanium jewellery during the healing process.
Can I change my nose jewellery myself?
It's best to wait until your piercing has fully healed before changing your jewellery. If you're unsure whether your piercing is ready, your piercer can advise you on when it's safe to make the switch.
Does a nose piercing suit every nose shape?
There's no single nose piercing that's right for everyone. An experienced piercer can assess your anatomy and recommend a placement that complements your features while sitting comfortably.
Can I wear makeup after getting a nose piercing?
It's best to avoid getting makeup, skincare products or other cosmetics directly on or around your new piercing while it's healing. Follow your piercer's aftercare advice and take extra care when applying products near the area.
