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Ask the Nose Piercing Lensmaster!

questions and answers about nose piercings

From the lens Nose Rings and Piercings.

Got a nose piercing question? If it's a brief one, you can ask it here. Questions that are addressed by something written in the lens already will get deleted to cut down on repetition.

It's also a good idea to read through past questions to see if someone has already asked what you wish to ask about, as that might get you your answer right away!

Please note, I can NOT answer the following questions:
- how much will it hurt? (no clue, that all depends on your own perceptions and physical tolerance)
- how much do piercings cost? (go ask a piercer)
- how will something heal? (your own body's healing process and how diligent you are taking care of your nose can't be predicted)
- is this infected? (go see a doctor for a medical diagnosis)

  • Meeks May 27, 2012 @ 8:34 am | delete
    Switching to a nose hoop for the first time. I want to find something that will hug my nostril and not stick out, something subtle. Any suggestions for what to look for size wise and where to buy?
  • relache May 28, 2012 @ 1:15 am | delete
    To measure, take a ruler and measure the distance from the piercing to the edge of your nostril. That will be the minimum diameter you will want to wear, although make sure there is a little space so it doesn't pull on the piercing or chafe your nostril.
  • HM May 23, 2012 @ 9:13 pm | delete
    I've had my piercing since yesterday. I'm really worried about infections because i got my tragus done and it had to be removed even tho i kept it clean. My nose is sore even while sitting down. How long does it take for it to stop hurt for people normally. and how do i prevent infections from happening
  • relache May 24, 2012 @ 2:12 pm | delete
    Infections tend to come from two things: improper piercing situations (the piercing isn't pierced under sterile conditions) or from poor aftercare. Talking with your piercer, getting clear instructions on how to care for it and then being responsible about really caring for the new piercing most often results in no problems.

    As for pain, each person is different, and brand new piercings tend to be sore (even if you are just sitting there) especially if you have swelling. How long it takes to stop hurting varies from person to person.
  • gonzalezdenise May 15, 2012 @ 1:27 pm | delete
    Thanks a very interesting lens.
  • Hannah May 5, 2012 @ 2:40 pm | delete
    My piercing is about 3 1/2 months old and for 2 months, I have been hating this pesty kelloid. I have tried everything people have told me and nothing has worked. I have decided to take it out. Is it okay to take it out with having a kelliod. And also, if i try to get it re -pierced the same place, do you think i will have a higher chance for problems with a kelloid again(since i already had one there).
  • relache May 12, 2012 @ 4:00 pm | delete
    Having a keloid is a sign that you are prone to them, and repiercing in the same place is even more likely to do it again.
  • Silvia Gilbert Apr 26, 2012 @ 12:20 am | delete
    i got a stud nose straight size of gauge 15g, what sizes can i use and what other kinds?
  • relache May 12, 2012 @ 3:59 pm | delete
    Since cartilage does not stretch, you will want to stick with the gauge you got pierced.
  • naidene Apr 3, 2012 @ 4:56 am | delete
    So If I get it pierced with the gun can they put a ring in it or does it have to be a stud
  • relache May 12, 2012 @ 3:57 pm | delete
    You should never use piercing guns no matter what you are getting pierced. And they only use studs, so the answer to your question is no.
  • Melissa Mar 21, 2012 @ 6:01 am | delete
    hey i have my nose pierced with three years now and I have outside nose scarring but my nose has turned black no body explained that tis would happen...how do i remove the black? its ugly and I love my piercing ....removing it isnt an option. and i agree nose bones are the worst invention ever!!!
    PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!
  • relache May 12, 2012 @ 3:56 pm | delete
    Unfortunately the black mark is a permanent skin stain and comes from wearing sterling silver in a healing piercing. You might want to see if a dermatologist has a surgical way of helping you.
  • joy Mar 13, 2012 @ 1:50 am | delete
    I had my nose pierced 3 times & it would always come out while I was sleeping, usually within days of having it done & I couldn't figure out how to put the damn thing back in so I had to wait for it to "heal" before I did it again. I want to know if I can get pierced with an endless hoop kind of thing cuz it's way easier to put back in. Thanks!
  • relache Mar 14, 2012 @ 2:35 pm | delete
    If you go back and read the lens, you'll see a I recommend that people get their noses pierced with hoops, not studs.
  • Victoria Mar 6, 2012 @ 12:45 am | delete
    I've had my nose done for almost a year now. It was originally pierced with a 18g but I went lower. To a 18g. Well the 18g hoop broke so I bought another one. I put it in my nose and it is very tight. I can't move the hoop, its sore, and its tight. So I must of accidentally stretched it. Is this tightness normal? Will the piercing eventually get used to the size in a few days?
  • relache Mar 8, 2012 @ 2:28 pm | delete
    From what you've said, you went from an 18g to an 18g, which is the same size. The tightness could be from a size change or from injuring the inside of the piercing, which would cause swelling.
  • CraftaholicVeteran1 Mar 5, 2012 @ 4:55 am | delete
    I like my piercing but I found that my pups, or dogs tend to reach out to the ring, but I somehow need to have to back on my mine because I move so much when I sleep and plus, I'll admit it when I was married to my 1st husband, every time I kissed him it came out. I wish I could find one that wasn't too small or too big but that didn't need a back to stay in. I've had mine in since '98 and am glad I did it. I have had many compliments on it. LOL and I'm in my 40's.
  • relache Mar 14, 2012 @ 2:36 pm | delete
    You want what's called a nostril screw. It's a stud with a curled wire back that holds it in place.
  • Tiffany Feb 28, 2012 @ 7:47 pm | delete
    Hi, I've had my nose piercing for a few weeks not but lately I've noticed I can't breathe of the side of my nose that has it done? Is this normal for newish piercings?
  • relache Mar 8, 2012 @ 2:27 pm | delete
    No, that's NOT normal at all. You need to go back and see your piercer or see a doctor.
  • Kate Feb 15, 2012 @ 8:33 pm | delete
    i got my nose pierced 5 days ago with a straight post but its sticking out of my nose for some reason. Basically its not resting on my nose. Is that normal?
  • relache Mar 8, 2012 @ 2:26 pm | delete
    New piercings tend to swell up a bit and the jewelry moves around as the skin inside heals. It should settle down with time.
  • Mills Feb 12, 2012 @ 3:20 pm | delete
    I've just got my nose pierced and i think the piercer put a straight nose pin in, is this okay?
  • relache Mar 8, 2012 @ 2:25 pm | delete
    As long as it's not a nose bone (where both ends are balls) you should be fine.
  • missroxa Mar 21, 2012 @ 12:58 pm | delete
    I have a nose bone and I can say that I have been wearing it for the past few years every day, without taking it out, because when I first put it, I wore it until the piercing was healed, and then I just couldn't take it out anymore, only if I broke it.
  • Nic Jan 27, 2012 @ 7:52 pm | delete
    I've had my nose pierced for over 4 years now, but i notice it has this odor sometimes even though i clean it everyday with soap, water and alcohol. Is there any way to get rid of this gross smell? and, what type of material of a nose ring you recommend? gold, steel, sterling silver? thanks..any suggestions is much appreciated.
  • relache Jan 30, 2012 @ 10:59 am | delete
    The smell is from the skin reacting to the jewelry, and not quite being able to breathe. It's quite common for a lot of piercings. Cleaning simply every day is the best you can do, but not overstripping the skin with alcohol might actually help lessen the problem. Try wearing non-reactive metals: surgical stainless steel, titanium or gold.
  • Miranda Jan 27, 2012 @ 7:44 pm | delete
    Hi, I was planning on getting a nose piercing but after reading this page I am worried about getting a Keloid. The cartilage in my ear was peirced a few years back and I ended up getting a keloid that was then surgically removed. I've also had a belly button peircing that healed too well, and once the jewlery came out, it was out for good. My question to you is whether it is worth me getting this peircing? I do really want it, but at the same time am I at higher risk of another keloid? Thanks
  • relache Jan 30, 2012 @ 10:57 am | delete
    You might want to see a dermatologist and find out if you have a genetic/biological predisposition to keloids. That's the only way to know for sure.
  • unique Jan 22, 2012 @ 3:28 pm | delete
    i found a gold nose ring can i wear it if i clean it
  • relache Jan 30, 2012 @ 10:57 am | delete
    How do you really know the ring is true gold? It could be a poor quality mix of materials. However, in the end, the choice is yours.
  • Jack Jan 13, 2012 @ 1:29 am | delete
    Wont getting a hoop in the beginning cause the hole to shape roundish like so in the end a stud wouldn't be possible to put it?
  • relache Jan 30, 2012 @ 10:56 am | delete
    It can. However, once fully healed, I've never had a piercing where you couldn't swap between the two shapes.
  • Sarah Jan 13, 2012 @ 1:17 am | delete
    I currently got my nose pierced 2 weeks ago. I had the stud and the lady said I could change it a week later so i did. Now i wanted to put the stud back on and its not going through. But it goes through perfectly with the hoop but not the stud. DId the hoop make the inside shape differently or something? HELP! HOW CAN I GET THE STUD BACK IN?
  • relache Jan 30, 2012 @ 10:55 am | delete
    Noses take several months to heal and taking the jewelry out too soon often results in the fresh piercing collapsing shut, sometimes as soon as nothing is inside it. So part of of your problem is probably coming from the piecing closing down. The other thing is that fresh piercings take on the shape of the jewelry in them, being slightly curved for hoops and being straight for studs. It's not until they are healed that it's easier to swap between the two shapes. Put your hoop back in until it heals (about 3 months) and then try a stud then.
  • Sam Jan 7, 2012 @ 12:35 am | delete
    After the peircing has healed, if you don't wear anything n the hole how long will it take to close up, and will it leave a mark?
  • relache Jan 10, 2012 @ 12:59 pm | delete
    No one can predict just how you are going to heal, Sam. How quickly a piercing might close after being healed actually varies from person to person based on how long they had the piercing and how their body heals. Same goes for if you see a dimple where the piercing used to be or not.
  • Sade Jan 3, 2012 @ 10:49 pm | delete
    Hi, I got my nose pierced 3 months ago, finally changed from the hook into a gold nose bone...realized something felt wierd...i could move the shaft up and down, but found that I couldn't get the nose bone completely out, and a bump formed in my nose (hadn't completely engulfed the ball of the nose bone). I finally got it out, the top bled a little, and the bump popped. I cleaned everything again, and put it back in, and everything felt okay. I also noticed the hole seemed to conformed to the smaller gauge (smh wasnt my intention at all). I went back to my piercer, he didn't even look at it once he heard I had a nose bone in. He asked if I could get the original 16 gauge hooked ring he placed initially back in my nose, but I told him no. (I could never get that thing back in, hence why I bought the nose bone because it was easier to get in and out. Also, the reason I left the nosebone in for 5 days because I tried to get that hook back in literally 2 mins after I put the nose bone in, but I couldn't get the hang of it). Anyway, he wants me to take the nose bone out for about a month, and get the piercing re-done. Is this really necessary or can I just try a different ring and call it a day?
  • relache Jan 10, 2012 @ 12:58 pm | delete
    The problem with nose bones is that the post is smaller than the balled ends, and the piercings do tend to shrink down to the size of the post and then you wind up ripping the jewelry out as the only way to remove it. Choice of what to do is yours.
  • Emily Dec 18, 2011 @ 12:37 am | delete
    I've had a nose stud in for almost two years now, I wanted to switch to a fitted nose ring but I was told that I couldn't because noses that were pierced for studs can't be switched for a fitted nose ring. Is that true?
  • relache Dec 26, 2011 @ 2:00 pm | delete
    Emily, that is so totally NOT true. Once your piercing is well-healed, you can wear hoops/rings or post-style jewelry.
  • jimmyworldstar Dec 12, 2011 @ 9:09 am | delete
    I don't think nose piercings look too bad, but they take longer to heal and get infected easier. I imagine it'd be an issue too if you get into a fight and it gets pulled off.
  • Sofie Oct 24, 2011 @ 6:57 pm | delete
    can you get your nose pierced with a nose ring instead of a nose stud?
  • relache Oct 27, 2011 @ 10:59 pm | delete
    If you go back and re-read this lens, you'll find that I recommend getting pierced with a ring instead of a stud for several reasons.
  • Shivani09 Oct 13, 2011 @ 9:44 pm | delete
    Great information! Thanks for sharing
  • emily Oct 11, 2011 @ 9:19 pm | delete
    i have had my nose pierced about 2 months. I now have the hard ball inside that everyone talks about. My stud fell out while sleeping and it now seems as if the very inside of the piercing is closed....is it okay to push it through??? It hurts like Hell when i try....advice?
  • relache Oct 13, 2011 @ 11:59 am | delete
    emily, you'll have an easier time of it if you go see a professional piercer about getting that jewelry back in place. They'll be able to tell you if the piercing has closed up or not.
  • Jenny Oct 11, 2011 @ 12:38 am | delete
    I just got my nose done 2 days ago and had some questions. In the information sheet I got, it said not to rotate the piercing for 2 weeks. (this time period having nothing to do with the total time they told me it would take to heal) Why would twisting or rotating the piercing harm it? I would think that it would stop your tissue from forming onto the nose ring. Also, the ring they put in was a cork screw, it appears silver but I am not sure if it's sterling silver or not. Do I just have to wait and see if it starts to stain my skin? They told me not to clean the inside of my nose because my body's natural mucous will keep infection away. I looked inside today and there is dried crusted blood on the inside. I cleaned this out with boiled water and salt on a Q-Tip, it kind of twisted my ring a bit and I put it back (the bottom was sort of showing through my nose) Should I keep cleaning the inside? And is there a wrong way for my cork screw ring to be "set or positioned" in my nose while healing? It now feels different inside my nose then when I first got it. Thank you!
  • relache Oct 13, 2011 @ 11:58 am | delete
    Actually, giving the new jewelry a gentle turn once per day while cleaning is not only a great way to make sure you washed and rinsed out all the soap, but it makes sure the jewelry isn't sticking to the healing skin. I'd say go back and ask about the jewelry, it's worth knowing. Yes, clean inside your nose and a Q-tip is the best way to do that. Anyway the corkscrew curl is comfortable to you should be fine.
  • Kayla Sep 20, 2011 @ 3:15 pm | delete
    I recently just got my nose pierced with a curved ring, and I was wondering if later on after my piercing healed, if it would be okay to wear straight studs, or if that would irritate it too much?
  • relache Sep 20, 2011 @ 6:24 pm | delete
    Once healed, you should have no problem switching between a hoop and a stud. I do want to say that some people report it feels funny the first time they change styles as their nose is has become used to the first style they ever wore.
  • Hanna Sep 19, 2011 @ 8:49 am | delete
    great post avout nose piercing, very informative.thanks!
  • miaponzo Sep 16, 2011 @ 3:59 am | delete
    I actually had my nose pierced the first time with a needle.. (horrible.. difficult, painful, and it ended up infected and I had to take it out)... years later in Kuwait.. got it done again at a professional jeweler (Indian) and they used a machine.. never had any trouble.. and that was more than 20 years ago! :)
  • Sam :) Sep 13, 2011 @ 5:38 pm | delete
    Hello, basically i've got my nose peirced, but i've never actually seen a stud like it.. it's a ball, with a straight bar, with a flat circular plate on the bottom.. sort of like this ..-->(this being the circular plate) |----o <-- ( the stud ) how do i change this?! it seems too tight to twist it off ! :( but it's getting really annoying, the inside bit keeps rubbing on the inside of my nose. Any help would be MUCH appreciated!!
  • relache Sep 19, 2011 @ 9:59 pm | delete
    The jewelry you are describing sounds like the type that is used for a lip piercing. Flat circular plates are not appropriate backings for nose jewelry. You may have to go see a professional piercer for help if you can't manage to untwist it yourself.
  • Molly Aug 26, 2011 @ 3:28 am | delete
    I have had my nose pierced for well over a year now, but my new job requires ALL jewlery be removed. I work nine hour days. Any idea if it will heal up in that time? And if so, will it leave a mark where it was?
  • relache Aug 26, 2011 @ 3:52 pm | delete
    My best estimate is that your nose piercing should be established enough to be okay with you taking out the jewelry for work, but that's not a guarantee. Some people find that newer (less than a few years old) piercings have a tendency to tighten up when the jewelry is out for extended periods. There's no way to know what's going to happen until you do it and find out. I have no idea if it will heal up in that time. To the best of my knowledge, piercings leave a very small dimple behind when they heal.
  • Molly Aug 26, 2011 @ 3:53 pm | delete
    Thank you (:
  • xxlovexdiesxslowlyxx Aug 20, 2011 @ 11:38 pm | delete
    So, two weeks ago I got my nose pierced at a really reliable piercing shop, and they told me just to take a cotton swab, run it under warm water, and the clean the piercing, twice a day. I have no problem with it,but I was wondering if there is another way I should be cleaning my nose. And I know the healing time is different for every person, but I would really like to know the average healing time for a nose stud. (I got an L shaped one, if it makes a difference
  • relache Aug 22, 2011 @ 10:43 pm | delete
    The answer to your question about healing time is found in the paragraph titled "Nostril Piercing: the common nose ring." It's in bold too. As for cleaning, you're just rinsing it off and removing any surface material. If you want to clean it, use soap and water and be sure to not only work the soapy water into the piercing but to fully rinse it out afterwards or it can cause irritation.
  • Rachel Aug 18, 2011 @ 3:55 pm | delete
    What are some signs that you're nose piercing is fully healed?
  • relache Aug 22, 2011 @ 10:45 pm | delete
    A complete lack of adverse effects like being red or swollen, weeping or crusty, etc. Nose piercings can often be sensitive while healing and no longer hurt or twinge once healed.
  • Rachel Aug 17, 2011 @ 4:43 pm | delete
    I was wondering if I bought nose studs from a place like Hot Topic or Claires if they are safe and clean enough to put in my nose straight out of the packaging, or should I somehow sterilize them before I put them in. How would I go about sterilizing them at home? I might buy studs that are stainless steel from Hot Topic and I don't know if i should trust them. Thanks so much !
  • relache Aug 22, 2011 @ 10:46 pm | delete
    You aren't going to be able to sterilize them once you are home, as contact with open air renders anything sterile non-sterile. (they control the air in operating rooms) But washing any new jewelry off with an anti-bacterial liquid or rubbing alcohol before wearing is a good idea.
  • Megan Aug 16, 2011 @ 5:29 pm | delete
    About 2 weeks ago I got my nose pierced and I have a small stud that was originally silver when I first got it. I do clean my piercing about 3 times a day with H2Ocean spray which I bought from the place I got my nose pierced and I do try to soak it once a day in a solution of sea salt and warm water. Like I stated before, the color of the stud I chose was silver (a traditional diamond) but when the jewelry was in my nose it looked more of a dark blue or black color. I have done some research and I am aware that it might be the stud being oxidized, although I am not aware of what material the stud is made of. I hope you can let me know what I can do to help get the stud back to its original color, being that it doesn't look to great and I was advised not change the stud until at least 2 months have passed. Thanks so much
  • relache Aug 17, 2011 @ 2:41 pm | delete
    If your nose jewelry is oxidizing, it means it's sterling sliver and if you don't get it changed (by a professional) it can result in a permanent blue-black stain being left on the skin around the piercing. You want to make sure you change to something that is either gold or stainless steel or titanium.
  • kelly Aug 15, 2011 @ 5:56 pm | delete
    i think crust is behind my nose stud, and i can't get it off, i've tried... and it's causing my nose ring not to come out. What should i so?!
  • relache Aug 16, 2011 @ 1:16 pm | delete
    Using a moistened cotton swab is a good way to help clean around your nose stud and it can make it a lot easier to get in close to the jewelry that way.
  • love1234567 Aug 4, 2011 @ 12:24 pm | delete
    Yesterday I took my cork screw nose piercing out for the first time to try a nose ring. The nose ring was too small for me, so I tried to put my nose screw back in but it just wouldn't go though all the way. I think it's this way because it was too early in the healing process. What should I do? Would it be okay to just keep working at it until I get it in, or would that be to risky of infections? Should I switch to a straight nose piercing, or what? please help! thank you!
  • relache Aug 14, 2011 @ 7:46 pm | delete
    Either you will have to try and get the jewelry back in place, or go see a professional for help, or you will lose the still-healing piercing and have to let it heal closed and then start over.
  • sk8ter20082002 Aug 1, 2011 @ 6:46 pm | delete
    can i take my nose ring out after 6 weeks
  • relache Aug 14, 2011 @ 7:45 pm | delete
    Of course... why would you think you couldn't?
  • Cindy Jul 31, 2011 @ 4:52 pm | delete
    i got my nose pierced 4 days ago at a piercing studio, the girl did it with a gun (she never said it should have been done with a needle) and she put in a straight stud which is slightly bigger on the inside of my nose. should i get the stud changed to a hoop?
  • relache Aug 14, 2011 @ 7:44 pm | delete
    The choice of whether to have the jewelry changed or not is up to you.
  • laki2lav Jul 25, 2011 @ 12:46 pm | delete
    you certainly put out a lot of good info here. thanks a bunch.
  • Niamh Jul 24, 2011 @ 8:57 am | delete
    i got my nose done like three days ago, i went to a party last night and hit it a few times, also i had a cold... and i woke up with it burning. is this supposed to happen? does it mean it's infected? :/
  • relache Jul 25, 2011 @ 8:27 am | delete
    Just bumping your nose or having a cold could irritate a new nose piercing but having both happen is guaranteed to cause some discomfort. I can't say if it's infected now, but if you don't take care of your body and your nose, it will be soon.
  • Kris. Jul 21, 2011 @ 10:05 am | delete
    I have a captive ring nose ring, and I just got it yesterday. I put it in last night and I cannot get it out. The opening of the ring is smaller than the diameter of my nose. I cannot go to a piercer because the closest one to me is about 45 minutes away. Do you have any sugestions on removing the piercing? When I bought it the piercer told me not to take pliers to it because it would ruin the shape and I would never be able to use it again. Please and Thank you. -Kris.
  • relache Jul 22, 2011 @ 12:45 pm | delete
    Once you remove the bead, you need to open the ring so that the two ends move away from each other such that the near circle starts to form a spiral, not a big U shape. That's how captives are put in and out of piercings where the bead opening is smaller than the skin thickness.
  • MIBrwneydecutie Jul 16, 2011 @ 7:07 pm | delete
    I've had my nose pierced twice, both times by professional piercers, and both times I developed what I thought were keloids (I was recently told that they might have been something else). They went away only after I took the piercing out each time. I'd like to have the piercing, but it is worth it to try again, or am I just throwing more money away?
  • relache Jul 22, 2011 @ 12:42 pm | delete
    Albert Einstein once defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over but somehow expecting different results. Unless you are going to do something radically different with this third time piercing, you should expect that you'll most likely get the same result.
  • hhb Jul 5, 2011 @ 5:23 pm | delete
    i already got my nose peirced with a gun and after reading this i really regret doing this , i also think that the jewelry is really annoying and seems to be for ears not nose and i cant even remove it and there is a crust around the jewelry so what shall i do ? :/ thanks ..
  • relache Jul 6, 2011 @ 9:19 pm | delete
    Everything you are complaining about is a huge part of why people should never get noses pierced that way. You're just going to have to clean off your nose, and firmly get a grip on the jewelry in order to remove it (if you go ahead and decide to do so).
  • Heather Jun 15, 2011 @ 4:38 pm | delete
    Hi, I just recently got my nose pierced and I was wondering if the stud is too sit on top of my nose or inside the hole? Is because my piercing is so new its still stretched from the needle? Any answer will help, thanks a lot.
  • relache Jun 21, 2011 @ 4:34 pm | delete
    The post of a stud goes through the piercing hole, and the bead/ball end and the backing should both be outside the piercing. New piercings aren't stretched, but they do tighten up once the skin reforms to heal the pierced channel.
  • Michelle Jun 13, 2011 @ 11:32 pm | delete
    I just got my nose pierced 3 days ago. The guy pierced it and put a plastic nose bone in it. I am worried becuase I heard neither are good for a new piercing. Should I try and change it out with a screw one or just leave what i have in for the full two weeks he recommended? Also I have problems with wearing fake jewlery in my ears.. they get infected if its not gold.. Would I get this problem with the nose ring or should the titanium ones be fine? Please help. Took me 8 yrs to finally get it done and I dont want to mess it up.
  • relache Jun 21, 2011 @ 4:32 pm | delete
    You are right that neither is good for a healing nose, and I'd suggest you get that changed by a professional as soon as you can. BTW, your nose will take closer to three MONTHS to heal, not two weeks, so if you try and change it yourself, you may find it closes right up on you.
  • Tina Jun 9, 2011 @ 11:46 pm | delete
    I see that there is two type of nostril screw Left bend or right bend. Which one appropriate for the right nostril or does it even matter?
  • relache Jun 12, 2011 @ 3:51 pm | delete
    The only difference is going to be that one has a curl that goes clockwise and the other will go counter-clockwise. You'll have to determine if one or the other someone goes better with your nose or how you change the jewelry.
  • Lo K May 30, 2011 @ 11:47 am | delete
    I recently had my nose pierced and due to a series of events I had to change the stud several times (~5x in a month). Now the inner hole seems to be migrating downwards so the hole runs nearly vertical. Is my body rejecting it? Is this because of all the additional irritation? I now have a 14k bone that I hope to leave in place for a very long time.
  • relache May 31, 2011 @ 4:32 pm | delete
    If the piercing really moves so that it seems to be trying to leave the body, that's the most common sign of rejection. The extra irritation could be a factor in the migration, but there's no way to say for sure. Take extra gentle care of the piercing and see if it settles down.
  • Rachel May 29, 2011 @ 7:45 pm | delete
    I just got my nose pierced yesterday and the stud is the L-bend kind. How is the bent part supposed to be situated in my nostril? Should it be pointed up or pointed down? As it is right now, it's kind of poking into my septum, which isn't the most comfortable. Any info would be much appreciated!
  • relache May 31, 2011 @ 4:30 pm | delete
    The bent part can be pointed in any direction that keeps it hidden and is comfortable for you to wear.
  • Sarah May 20, 2011 @ 10:54 am | delete
    I just got my nose pierced about four days ago. I got it done with a ring and I'm noticing that the ball of the ring keeps falling so you can see it hanging out of my nose. Is there anyway to stop this? Or should I just move the ball around so it is out all the time?
  • relache May 31, 2011 @ 4:29 pm | delete
    If you look at the main photo at the top of this lens, you will see both piercings feature bead rings where the bead shows. That type of jewelry is most often worn with the bead showing, so don't worry and let it fall where it may.
  • Payton(: May 1, 2011 @ 3:25 pm | delete
    I have a nose piercing and I want to change it. I've had it since October and I'm tired of my stud, but I have no idea how to take it out. It's the kind that has two parts; the gem part then another part that can stay in my nose. I've tried to take it out, but it is really hard for me. Do you think you have nay idea how to take it out?
  • relache May 3, 2011 @ 10:19 pm | delete
    There are a couple of ways that your nose jewelry might go together/come apart, but what would be best for you (instead of me guessing blindly) is to go to a piercing studio and have them look at your jewelry and then show you how it's done.
  • Stacy88 Apr 26, 2011 @ 2:45 pm | delete
    I'm wondering, if I can only use gold in my ears, will my nose, or any other body piercing, be the same?
  • relache Apr 27, 2011 @ 7:27 pm | delete
    For many people, metal sensitivities are systemic, meaning it's going to happen across your entire body. The best way to find out is to go to an allergist and get tested.
  • alyxzandra_16 Apr 15, 2011 @ 7:20 pm | delete
    Im wondering im 12 turning 13 in september do you think they would have problem with peircing my nose because of my age i live in Canada and i ve researched alot on getting it done and I havent heard of anyrhing like that in Canada but just wondering you know different people different opinions
  • relache Apr 15, 2011 @ 11:41 pm | delete
    I always recommend that people check with their local shops. After all, they will know what the rules and laws are in your local area.
  • Lillian Mar 27, 2011 @ 5:40 pm | delete
    I've had my nose pierced for two weeks.. I've changed the ring once.. my nose never hurts..and it is never red or anything.. and my stud is fitted right.. but for some reason the only effect I'm having is.. the left nostril is swollen.. I use h2ocean to clean it as well. do you think the swelling will go down??
  • relache Apr 15, 2011 @ 11:41 pm | delete
    Swelling isn't uncommon with new piercings. You can try putting some ice on it if it's really bad, but otherwise just clean it gently and it will go down.
  • JB Mar 27, 2011 @ 3:00 am | delete
    Is the L shape nose ring better than the nose screw? How do I know what to get and what gauge? I just had my nose pierced 6 weeks ago and I want to change the stud.
  • relache Apr 4, 2011 @ 9:21 pm | delete
    At 6 weeks, your nose is still not healed and if you change it now, you run the risk of the piercing closing up when you take out the jewelry. It's better to wait another six weeks before trying.
  • BladeOps Mar 25, 2011 @ 2:29 pm | delete
    thanks for the great lens!
  • Lisalynn Mar 1, 2011 @ 8:08 am | delete
    I want to know why is it SOO hard to find cute 18 gauge nose rings/screw/L-pins most all places even piercing shops I have been too sell 20 gauge which looks even smaller than and earring...WHY pierce with 18G then only sell 20G?
  • Feb 26, 2011 @ 10:21 pm | delete
    great lens! love my nose piercing!
  • raosrinivas Jan 31, 2011 @ 12:35 pm | delete
    It is interesting. In many of the asian countries, people usually do. Thanks for sharing.
  • ReccoR Jan 23, 2011 @ 8:39 pm | delete
    well I am not a fan of facial piercings, and the lady in the first picture made me jump out of my seat a little. So content-wise I am biased against... but lens-wise this was well made and well laid out!
  • venitalynn Jan 15, 2011 @ 9:27 pm | delete
    I've been thinking about getting my nose pierced. I think the tiny gem ones are adorable. I'm a little concerned about the professional image thing though...
  • Allie Jan 11, 2011 @ 2:23 am | delete
    hii i got my nose pierced nearly 2 months ago and i have a keloid on the inside of my nose, i have a screw stud in it at the moment but want to change to a hoop, will it be okay to do so?
  • relache Jan 14, 2011 @ 12:49 pm | delete
    If the keloid is going to interfere with the new hoop going into the piercing, you'll want to go see a piercer to have the swap done.
  • KerriTaylor Jan 9, 2011 @ 10:20 pm | delete
    Hey. i havent had my nose peircing in long at all...i have the hoop, nd it has a little ball on it. I need to take it out ut the guy who put it on used plyers, and ive honestly tried to pop it off but its not budging.. any suggestions??
  • relache Jan 12, 2011 @ 6:01 pm | delete
    What you need is called "ring spreaders" which work like pliers, but in reverse. If you don't want to buy them, you'll need to go a piercing parlor to get the jewelry swapped.
  • Cheryl Dec 20, 2010 @ 11:28 am | delete
    I had my nose pierced and it was doing great healing properly and very little pain but it kept falling out until oneday if fell out and I could not find it and my hole close up overnight it had only been pierced for about a week. I want to get it re pierced but what would you suggest so it want fall out on a regular basis? Thank you
  • relache Jan 4, 2011 @ 8:51 pm | delete
    If you read the lens, you'll see I recommend beginning with a hoop, not a stud.
  • Cherrybomb2009 Apr 4, 2011 @ 11:45 am | delete
    Ok, that was actually something I haven't yet heard. I'd heard the opposite, but that was related to a girl who got a keloid on the outside of her nose, and for some reason the piercer suggested she just get a nose stud instead of a ring/hoop.

    I like what I'm hearing about the nose ring/hoop being better to start off with since it's easier to clean, but also because I think nose studs are way too trendy looking now. Yeah, they're less noticeable and probably better for work purposes, but I really like the way nose rings/hoops look better.

    Also going to have to remind myself to get STEEL and not sterling silver if/when I FINALLY get my nose ring/hoop. I hate gold jewelry, so it just can't be gold either, lol.

    LOVE this lens...
  • Carol Dec 8, 2010 @ 9:05 pm | delete
    is 9mm to long for the tail of a nose stud? And, if I've been wearing a 20-22g stem, is a 10g too large?
  • relache Dec 9, 2010 @ 12:07 am | delete
    How long the tail of a nose stud is depends on how thick your nostril is. And there's no way in HELL that a 10g nose stud will fit a 20g piercing. 20g is .81mm, whereas 10g is 2.5mm. The smaller the gauge number the larger the wire thickness.
  • Alyssa B Dec 8, 2010 @ 2:30 pm | delete
    I took my nose piercing out after having it for 2 years. The hole looks like it has closed but now it just looks like a big giant pore. Would you suggest putting Mederma on it to avoid scarring and potentially closing it?
  • relache Dec 9, 2010 @ 12:05 am | delete
    I have no experience with Mederma, but I do know that lots of piercings shrink down over time without having to buy pricey ointments or products. If you just took it out, naturally it's going to look larger than it will in a few years.
  • CarolZ Nov 18, 2010 @ 8:20 am | delete
    I had my nose pierced about a month and a half ago. I've been cleaning it regularly but lately not as much. When I woke up today my stud was inside of my nostril and I had to push from inside my nose to see it pop out. It's never been too tight before but now I'm afraid the hole is so big that it will just fall through all the time. it also had this pus/discharge resting on the top of it. Can the hole get smaller on its own or do I need to take it out and have it done again later?
  • relache Nov 18, 2010 @ 12:57 pm | delete
    Once the skin regrows all through the inside of the healing piercing, the hole will be a bit smaller.
  • Sky Nov 16, 2010 @ 6:41 pm | delete
    my nose was pierced with a 15 gauge needle. what size gauge can be purchase to fit?
  • relache Nov 18, 2010 @ 12:55 pm | delete
    Wire sizes get smaller the larger the number, and tend to be even numbers only, so you'd get the best fit from a 16g nose ring.
  • Senora_M Nov 15, 2010 @ 2:16 pm | delete
    Oh man... That looks painful. My best friend in college got her eyebrow pierced. I have my ears pierced multiple times, but that's as far as I think I'll be going. Nice lens though!
  • Jess Nov 13, 2010 @ 3:47 am | delete
    I at the end of July so about 4 months now.. and after it had healed i changed it to an I stud with no back on the end and it kept falling out, so i changed it to one with a ball on the end and it was fine but now because of school i've had to change it. so now i have a bended one (this is what its like http://www.bodyjewelleryshop.com/online_store/flesh_tone_bioflex_nose_stud_14077781.cfm) and it has special push fits but whenever i sleep it falls out and i have to find it and put it back in. so is there any other way to keep it on apart from plasters every night??
  • relache Nov 13, 2010 @ 11:43 am | delete
    I'd recommend just getting some style of jewelry that stays put... like a ring.
  • Marie Nov 6, 2010 @ 11:59 pm | delete
    I had my nose pierced more than three years ago. I kept the same corkscrew stud in the entire time. I recently took it out because I wanted to replace it with a different one. I'm so puzzled because the hole seemed to close up right away!?! After three years, how is this possible? That was maybe two weeks ago, and altho I try every day to find the hole, IT'S NOT THERE!!! I shuld give you some background info---off and on I've had trouble with the piercing, like redness and oozing of pus (infection?) and pain. This has happened maybe ten times in the past three years. Could all of that trouble have caused the hole to never heal? Have you ever heard of this problem? Thanks for any thoughts you can share!
  • relache Nov 8, 2010 @ 3:55 pm | delete
    It's completely possible that your nose never completely healed on the inside and that once you took the jewelry out, the unhealed tissue immediately started to heal itself shut. I often think this is a sign that the body doesn't really want the piercing.
  • MarieV Nov 9, 2010 @ 9:15 am | delete
    Thanks! Is it possible that if I try again to get my nose pierced, using a different material like gold might make it to where my body doesn't reject it?
  • relache Nov 13, 2010 @ 11:42 am | delete
    The only way to know would be to try.
  • ammy Nov 6, 2010 @ 2:45 pm | delete
    hi i got my nose pierced 14 month ago and everything was fine a couple of weeks ago i changed my screw stud with another 1 all ok,except when i tried changing it again 2 days ago the stud wont go through i cant c it from the inside but the hole is still there and a needle gose through i need help tnx
  • relache Nov 8, 2010 @ 3:53 pm | delete
    Sounds like you went from a thicker wire to a thinner one and then had problems when you tried to go back to the thicker one. Go see a piercer for help with this, as they should have a probe that can slide into and open up the piercing.
  • Paige Nov 5, 2010 @ 8:44 pm | delete
    I'm serious about getting my nose pierced once I turn 18 (end of November). However, I teach swim lessons for kids. Will the chlorinated water irritate it too much? Also, is it a bad idea to get it pierced during the winter due to colds?
  • relache Nov 8, 2010 @ 2:38 pm | delete
    Chlorinated water, and the bacterial exposure that comes with being in any public waters, is bad for all healing body piercings. I'd skip getting pierced until you have a different job.
  • IsisKat Oct 30, 2010 @ 2:56 am | delete
    my piercing has been healing rather well I think but the ring used was a stick with nothing at end and it was falling out at night so I switched to a screw tonight (5 days old) Will I be able to remove the screw to clean as I was doing with the other one?
    The other one which was suggested by the piercer was also made of that tarnishing metal and the screw was bought at Sally's and is made of much better metal. Which is another reason I took a risk and changed it.
  • relache Nov 8, 2010 @ 2:34 pm | delete
    You shouldn't have to take the jewelry out to clean it properly. That can add to irritation. But having non-tarnishing metal is super important!
  • Janea Oct 15, 2010 @ 9:50 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced about 2 weeks ago. I took out my corkscrew and wanted to replace it with a l shaped stud. I can get it in to my nose but cannot get it to come out the bottom part into my nose. The place I got it done at is two hours away and cannot make the trip to have them help me insert the l shape one in and I cannot get the corkscrew back it,. Is there a good place to watch online instructions on how to do it or do you have any suggestions. i am scared that the l shaped one is not LONG enough or I am doing it wrong. Please help!
  • relache Oct 18, 2010 @ 9:19 pm | delete
    Sadly as your piercing was only two weeks old when you took out the jewelry, most likely it closed up as soon as you removed it. If you can't get the jewelry back through, the only thing that's going to help is to go see a professional, although if it's been a few days now the hole may be healing shut.
  • Lee Oct 4, 2010 @ 10:57 pm | delete
    can you get a nose ring(not a stud) when you initally get it pierced? Or do you have to get a stud and then switch it to a ring after it has healed?
  • relache Oct 10, 2010 @ 11:05 pm | delete
    Getting a ring to start will make it easier to clean the new piercing and will prevent the jewelry from being "swallowed" up inside the piercing if it swells.
  • Gabriela Oct 3, 2010 @ 11:40 am | delete
    What is the smallest size nose hoop a person can get? I have a 18g 3/8" and it's too big.
  • relache Oct 10, 2010 @ 11:04 pm | delete
    That's going to depend on the measurement of the distance from where your nose is pierced to just past the edge of your nostril. You want a hoop that doesn't rub or snag on the rim of your nostril and can move freely but not get too bumped or snagged.
  • nina_loca13 Sep 23, 2010 @ 11:19 pm | delete
    I have had my nose pierced before and ended taking it off. I want to get it pierced again in the same spot but I have a small keloid, will this cause a problem?
  • hlkljgk Sep 23, 2010 @ 7:39 pm | delete
    ooooouch! :)
  • MB Sep 18, 2010 @ 6:51 pm | delete
    got my nose pierced yesterday and today it has been bleeding, there is dried blood that almost covers the stud, Is this normal to have bleeding after?
  • relache Sep 23, 2010 @ 11:00 am | delete
    Some people find new piercings bleed a bit, some don't. Chances are you knocked it about while sleeping.
  • Jamila Mar 11, 2010 @ 7:03 pm | delete
    Can 14 gauge shrink to 20 gauge? I'm concerned mine is too big.
  • Jamila Mar 11, 2010 @ 6:59 pm | delete
    I just got my nose pierced and I think it's too big for my nose. He said it was 14 gage and it looks really think. I want to take it out. Should I? Can the whole get smaller?
  • Kitt Killswith Mar 5, 2010 @ 4:59 pm | delete
    Lol i did my septum myself and it didnt hurt all that bad. i just slid it through. alothough it does get loose.(i have to keep it hidden) so i gauged it a bit. I'm at a 14g.
  • juliet Feb 17, 2010 @ 11:58 am | delete
    okay so i want to get my nose pierced twice on the same side (kinda like spiderbites on the nose) but my job says i can't have piercings in when i'm at work. how long would i have to wait to safely take out the studs for a few hours for work?
  • Camille Feb 12, 2010 @ 9:28 pm | delete
    Interesting point about avoiding nose bones. I started out with the L-bars, but I had such a hard time getting them out and in that I switched to the nose bones. The first time I went to take out a nose bone after leaving it in for a while was definitely rough, but no more so than it was trying to get the bend of the L-bar through. Ever since then it's been pretty easy to switch it out and put a new one in, and I'm careful when using towels and such so that I don't yank it out. Seven years and counting.

    You can still get a job with a nose piercing, but if it's a place with a dress code you may be asked to cover it up. I had to cover it at the restaurant where I worked. This boutique I worked at had a policy about always covering it up as well, but one day I forgot and it's such a small stud that no one noticed or cared so I went a whole year without covering it and I never heard a word about it. I generally cover it when I go on interviews and then show up without it covered (as long as there's no explicit policy concerning piercings) and see what they say. Currently I work as a manager for a school district in Southern California and it's not an issue at all.

    Question though - what do the different gauges mean?
  • jess Mar 4, 2010 @ 8:04 am | delete
    gauges means the thickness of the bar. the smaller the number, the thicker the the bar is. the higher the number the thinner it gets.
  • relache Sep 23, 2010 @ 10:59 am | delete
    Gauges refer to the wire thickness.
  • Lindsay Feb 9, 2010 @ 9:34 pm | delete
    I've had my ears pierced 3 times in the same hole (due to family issues and infection). When I was 17 or 18 I got my ears pierced for a second hole. The second it was done, I couldn't hear anything (it was buzzing sounding), I turned pale, and I blacked out for about 15 seconds and woke up vomiting all over the store. But I was completely fine after that. I want to get my nose pierced, but am afraid if I could have another blacking out-and-vomiting- episode.
  • Megan Jan 16, 2010 @ 9:04 pm | delete
    I've had my nose pierced for about 15 months, and just got it changed from a screw to a hoop yesterday. My question is, will the constant movement of the ring damage my nose piercing? It's the right size since my piercer fitted it to my nose, but it does get bumped more often than my screw did. Thanks :)
  • relache Sep 8, 2009 @ 11:36 am | in reply to mandy33 | delete
    What gauge people wear is purely personal preference. Neither is "better."
  • mandy33 Aug 16, 2009 @ 2:48 am | delete
    When i went to get my nose pierced they ran out of studs. so instead he had to pierce it and put in a hoop. i wasnt allowed to wear a hoop for work because i worked in a restauraunt. so right after me and my friend (who also had hers pierced) went to her house and got the stud that she got hers pierced with. we steralized it then after about an hour or so i took out the hoop and put in the stud. my nose was completely fine. no infection. but after about 2 months is when it started to get infected and wouldnt heal for a few weeks. so i changed it again to some studs i got from the mall. i didnt realize they were much smaller. 20 gauges. now i cant get that original hoop back in because my hole is too small. my nose is healed though now

    but im wondering if its normal to use 20 gauges or better off with the original (what i believe is 18 gauges)

    please reply!
  • relache Jul 20, 2009 @ 7:43 pm | in reply to Natalia | delete
    I'm not going to be able to tell anything about how your nose rings fits, as it's in your nose and not mine. I would think you could try turning the jewelry around and see for yourself what feels best.
  • Natalia Jul 3, 2009 @ 8:39 am | delete
    I got my nose pierced a few days ago with a L shaped stud. Is there a specific way that the inside part should be pointing (inside my nose)? It feels okay but there is a gap between the gem and my nose and there was no gap before today. Just wondered if the position of the tail on the inside holds it closer. Also, when I got it done the piercer mentioned "dislodging". What does that mean?
  • relache Jun 13, 2009 @ 9:20 pm | in reply to Koucna E | delete
    If you read this lens, you'd see that the #1 cause of scar tissue or bumps is friction, so the answer is "yes."
  • Koucna E Jun 13, 2009 @ 9:01 pm | delete
    I was wondering if the nose ring is not long enough can that cause a nose bump ? I have both and i dont think my nose ring is long enough for my nose ..
  • relache Jun 6, 2009 @ 4:16 pm | in reply to Samantha | delete
    With something that sounds so bad, you need to go see a doctor or go back to your body piercer for a follow-up. The non-stop bleeding sounds very abnormal.
  • relache Jun 6, 2009 @ 4:15 pm | in reply to Brittney | delete
    Things sound fine but you'll want to find a reputable piercer to take an actual look-see if anything comes up.
  • relache Jun 6, 2009 @ 4:13 pm | in reply to nesssa4711 | delete
    Since you did this to yourself and I don't want to incur any legal liability, I can't help you Nessa. If you need advice, I suggest you go see a body piercer in your area.
  • WhitneyWells Jun 3, 2009 @ 10:26 am | delete
    My wife is 40, she looks great with her nose pierced.[in reply to Kerry]
  • Samantha Jun 1, 2009 @ 5:20 pm | delete
    Hey, so I just got my nose pierced a couple of days ago and I cant even move my nose or touch the stud. Also the place where i got my nose pierced won't stop bleeding....... is it infected??
  • Brittney Jun 1, 2009 @ 7:42 am | delete
    I got my nose pierced at the beginning of April. The piercer used a regular stud earring in my nose, a tiny one. Its pretty uncomfortable, and I don't think they were supposed to use it. It was always either too tight, or too loose, or too hard to clean properly.. So I bought a l shaped nose ring, and switched it out. I know it was probably too soon to, but it was just too uncomfortable with the earring stud. I put a bit of neosporin on the nose ring after I had cleaned it, mostly to make it slide through easier, and it didn't hurt much but it did bleed a bit. After I had switched it out, one of my friends told me I shouldn't have and it was a bad idea. I know it was too soon, because switching out jewelry can irritate it or it could close up. But it did not close up obviously, and the earring stud was irritating it enough. Its been a few days and my nose seems completely fine. I just want to double check, did I do something wrong, should I be worried about something in particular now?
  • nesssa4711 May 31, 2009 @ 10:19 am | delete
    Hi, I got my nose pierced a week ago and I feel like the ring is going thru my nose. I have a nose screw with a little ball on top. This morning when I woke up I could barely see the ball. I had to use a tweezer (which I sterilized) to pull the ball back out. The piercing does not hurt and I make sure to clean it with soap and water, and to also apply the H2Ocean aftercare spray at least 3 times a day. I am really nervous that one morning I will wake up to find the ring inside my skin. Should I remove the ring? Could it be too small for the piercing?

    Thank You
  • Modest_is_the_hottest Feb 18, 2010 @ 8:53 pm | delete
    I have my nose pierced also. I would recommend going to the place of where you got your nose pierced, and telling them the situation. Until you go I would buy a nose ring and get one with a bigger ball on the end until you go get some answers and get it checked out. And don't worry about it! Just try not to get to nervous about it. :) Hope you have a great day and get some good feedback. I hope I was a help to you. God bless you! :)
  • relache May 26, 2009 @ 1:21 pm | in reply to Tracy | delete
    All my reading indicates that the black stain is there to stay forever. You might wish to consult with a dermatologist to see if there are any medical methods which might help.
  • Tracy May 25, 2009 @ 7:10 pm | delete
    I had my nostril pierced years ago. First thing I did, like and idiot, was go home and put in a pretty little silver nose stud. Low and behold it is healed but i now have the oxidised black stain inside the skin. Any way to get rid of the stain?
  • hempnecklace Apr 21, 2009 @ 5:26 pm | delete
    You are cordially invited to join my Jewelry group if you havn't done so already.

    My Squidoo Jewelry Group

    Click here To join the Jewelry group.

    thank you

    David Depape
  • relache Apr 6, 2009 @ 10:50 am | in reply to chelsea | delete
    The metal in safety pins is unregulated, which means there's probably a lot of metals that aren't suited for body piercing present, named nickel or brass. Both can tarnish (like sterling silver), leaving a permanent coloring around the piercing and tarnishing can lead to further inflammation or interaction with your nose. And that's not even going into the uncleanliness or lack of proper medical technique involved with home piercing.
  • chelsea Apr 6, 2009 @ 10:14 am | delete
    i pierced my nose myself a few weeks ago (i don't know the exact time) and i only wear a thick safty pin in it(i cut the point and the majority of the pin to leave a short bar about "--------------" that big) ha i know that sounds horrible but i have to keep it low key at school and i havent been able to make my way to a body jewlery shop. i take the bar out frequently to get the ickies off because it sticks in my nostril within an hour and the buildup can get so large that it can be quite painful to remove. i also have issues putting it back it, it seems to scab over in minutes. no infection is present and the hard tissue surrounding the hole is softening up. my question is, is it particularly harmful to be using this safty pin fragment as a retainer? so far, i dont see how it could be.
  • ottoblotto Feb 27, 2009 @ 10:06 pm | delete
    Interesting lens, well organized and presented.
  • relache Feb 24, 2009 @ 9:57 pm | in reply to Zak | delete
    Gently clean off any "gunk," "ick," "crusties" or blood. Dried body fluids can harbor bacteria and don't look pleasant.
  • relache Feb 24, 2009 @ 9:55 pm | in reply to Kerry | delete
    I'm older than you, Kerry, and I think you should be old enough to make up your own mind about something you want. The only age limits on piercing are in place to protect minors.
  • relache Feb 24, 2009 @ 9:52 pm | in reply to Ashley | delete
    I think that having an open ring in your nose is going to cause you problems eventually. Get some proper jewelry and make sure you are cleaning the piercing gently but thoroughly. Rotating the ring will help your skin learn where to grow.
  • relache Feb 24, 2009 @ 9:50 pm | in reply to Jessie | delete
    What does a pinched nerve in a shoulder have to do with your nose?
  • Zak Feb 19, 2009 @ 6:45 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced a few days ago..i've got scab/crusting on the outside of my nose around the stud and on the inside too. I am really confused as to whether to just dab it whilst cleaning it or to try and remove it as surely if it is a scab, removing it would be bad and cause it to bleed? Also don't know what to do about the dried blood on the inside? should i just leave it as it feels like it is stuck to my nose?!
  • Kerry Feb 16, 2009 @ 11:32 am | delete
    How old is too old to get a pierced nose? I would like to get one but all of my friends are telling me that at 38 I am too old. Anyone have any comments on that?
  • Ashley Feb 13, 2009 @ 10:46 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced three days ago and I feel like the skin is beginning to cover the bottom of the piercing. I have a ring and there is no ball connecting the ends and I am afraid that the bottom of my nostril will grow over the bottom of the ring. Should I try rotating it or will this just make things worse?
  • Jessie Feb 11, 2009 @ 8:32 pm | delete
    Is it safe to pierce my nose if i have a pinched nerve in my shoulder?
  • relache Feb 6, 2009 @ 10:34 am | in reply to KP | delete
    Getting a ring to start is preferable to a stud as it allows for better cleaning and care.
  • relache Feb 6, 2009 @ 10:33 am | in reply to Sienna | delete
    Noses take three months to heal, so it's not surprising that it's not after only one month. And if you read over this lens, there is info and links for how to deal with keloids.
  • KP Feb 5, 2009 @ 9:59 pm | delete
    Is it safe to get a nose piercing with a ring and not a stud?
  • Sienna Feb 5, 2009 @ 6:20 pm | delete
    I has my nose pierced about a month ago and it has not healed. I have a nostril screw and tonight have determined that I have a keloid growing on the outside and inside of my nostril. If I remove it would the keloid stop growing? Is it too late to put a ring? When I had the piercing the piercer was quite forceful when he inserted the ring and it took some time for it to go in. It was painful and since then I have had no peace with it settling.

    Pleae advise/recommend what I can do as I now feel that I have spoilt my looks and my attempt at beautifying has been in vain?

    Thanks and regards
  • relache Jan 14, 2009 @ 12:24 pm | in reply to megan | delete
    Sorry, but that's not a question I can answer for you. Whether or not you will be able to get a "professional" job or not where you can wear your piercing will really depend on what type of career you decide to pursue.
  • relache Jan 14, 2009 @ 12:21 pm | in reply to Different kind of nose stud | delete
    No traditional Indian nose jewelry has a backing. I mean, can you really stick your finger up your nose to put a backing on a stud? The style of jewelry that came out of India for pierced noses is the nostril screw, where the wire curls around so that there's a loop inside your nose.
  • megan Jan 10, 2009 @ 9:33 pm | delete
    I am 14, and I got my nose pierced 3 months ago. Will I be able to get a professional job someday without having to take it out. I think by the time I'm out of college, working and having a pierced nose shouldn't be such a big deal.
  • Different kind of nose stud Jan 7, 2009 @ 9:28 pm | delete
    Hi I have had my nose pierced for about 7 years now. I have been trying for about 2 years now to find a stud that has a removable back- like the ones worn by Indian women. However, I just want a simple silver stud and all the ones I have found online are gold and very ornate with multiple gems. Do you have any suggestions?
  • relache Jan 6, 2009 @ 9:25 am | in reply to elizabeth | delete
    The cold probably doesn't have much of an effect on your piercing, but you're right that the nose blowing might. If your sick and you have an unhealed piercing, there is a greater chance of infection. If the piercing is healed, any tugging or yanking that happens from blowing might cause some irritation. The only thing I can really suggest is that you blow and wipe your nose as gently as you can, and watch out for the piecing getting chapped.
  • elizabeth Jan 5, 2009 @ 10:43 pm | delete
    hi i was wondering if being in a cold enviornment, like an ice rink for three hours a day is not good for someone who has their nose pierced..i blow my nose alot because it gets really runny in cold conditions
  • relache Dec 30, 2008 @ 12:45 pm | in reply to Whitney | delete
    If you really don't want a nose piercing at all, I suggest you go ahead and take it out immediately.
  • Whitney Dec 25, 2008 @ 7:40 am | delete
    I got my nose pierced a week ago and I have a cold and I do not like the way that it looks on me. I want to take it out but the booklet that I got from the piercer suggested waiting until it fully heals before removing it. That could be up to six months! Will removing it sooner make a difference?
  • jennifer Dec 19, 2008 @ 6:08 pm | delete
    hi
    I had my nose pierced today for the first time
    I really like it and want it, but i have this nagging feeling it's a little too low and a little too forward
    I would not mind going through it again, but should i? Shall i take it out, let it heal and have a very close hole made or is it too much strain for the area?
    I tend to heal quickly
    since i had it done today i think maybe, if i want it to be perfect i should remove it asap. If so, when would be adviseable to get the better position holed?
    thanks
    jennifer
  • relache Dec 1, 2008 @ 11:06 am | in reply to marie | delete
    However your nose heals is how it heals. For some folks, the hole shrinks, for others not.
  • relache Dec 1, 2008 @ 11:03 am | in reply to Kristen | delete
    I've never heard of anyone having so much pain after this much time. It could just be the sensitivity of your nose, but only a doctor could tell you if it's a medical problem.
  • relache Dec 1, 2008 @ 11:01 am | in reply to Sette | delete
    I think your piercer told you it would be possible to switch the jewelry way too soon, and that the frequency of switching will most likely cause a lot of irritation.
  • relache Dec 1, 2008 @ 10:59 am | in reply to OJ | delete
    Most likely such a piercing would be impossible to pierce and/or reject/never heal.
  • relache Dec 1, 2008 @ 10:56 am | in reply to Meshelleywelley | delete
    You should go see a doctor for a reaction that is so extreme. Your face should not be burning everywhere the piercer touched it.
  • relache Dec 1, 2008 @ 10:49 am | in reply to kazza | delete
    There's no way to predict your specific healing reaction. It might, or it might not.
  • relache Dec 1, 2008 @ 10:47 am | in reply to Wendi | delete
    You can try wire cutters, or actually go to a piercing shop and see if they can help you.
  • marie Nov 30, 2008 @ 2:34 pm | delete
    i had my nose pierced about 3 years ago, and i decided its time to take it out permanently. is there any solution or.. something... that i can use to make the scar less noticeable? or to make it not scar at all? if not, will the hole always remain? wish i had thought of this before haha
  • Kristen Nov 30, 2008 @ 2:56 am | delete
    I got my nose pierced eight months ago now, and it's been so incredibly worth it, I absolutely love it. But even so, it still hurts if the ring gets moved (like when I blow my nose), and I don't dare even try to change the jewelry in it; it HURTS! Is it normal for me to still have pain with it after so long?
  • Sette Nov 28, 2008 @ 10:22 pm | delete
    hi I got my nose pierced a week ago and I play a sport. right now we're all off but we start practice back in January. I bought some retainers and our piercer said we should be fine to change it by then but, I'm going to be changing it back and forth every day and I wonder if this could potentially pose a problem. Any advice on how to minimalize irritation? Do you think all the switching back and forth could be bad?
  • OJ Nov 26, 2008 @ 2:27 pm | delete
    Is it possible to pierce the bottom rim of your nostril (the rim right above where a mustache would be a man)?
  • Meshelleywelley Nov 20, 2008 @ 2:25 pm | delete
    Hello, yesterday I went and had my nose pierced, Iv had it pierced before with no problem but I was in school at the time and ended up having to take it out. Now yesterday when I got it pierced it seemed OK for a while, but when I arrived home my face felt as though it was burning, the same sensation as having chilli seeds on your hands and accidentally touching your face. Wherever the lady had touched my face was burning, red an sore. Iv woke up this morning with a very blistered nose which feels like sunburn, the burning has stopped but its quite unsightly and tender. Any advice? I dont really want to take it out but understand that I might have to.
  • kazza Nov 18, 2008 @ 7:04 am | delete
    I have 'the bump' on my nose from my recent nose piercing. If I take it out and let my nose heal will the bump go away? I just want my nose to heal and no longer care about the piercing.
  • Wendi Nov 16, 2008 @ 12:19 am | delete
    I had my nose pierced in January 2008 - about a week after I had it done the jewel was so small it went clear thru my nose (what a b**** to get it all the way out) so I got a stud with a little bit of a larger end on it so that it wouldn't fall out while it continued to heal - now 9 months later & not a problem at all BUT I can not get it out - I tried after a hot shower like the salon suggested NOPE it wouldn't come out - I want to put a different color in I have been messing with it all night trying to get it out but still can't - should I use wire cutters & cut it??? UUGGHH this is so frustrating!! PLEASE HELP with any suggestions
  • relache Nov 14, 2008 @ 2:25 pm | in reply to Jennah | delete
    Since your nose is so freshly-healed, it could conceivably close up in a very short time. This could be hours, or even in a day or two.
  • Jennah Nov 13, 2008 @ 12:06 am | delete
    I got my nose pierced about 3 months ago. Everything is going fine but recently I have gotten sick of wearing. I took it out a few hours ago. Now I am wondering how long I can leave it out without it closing up. I know there is no exact answer but what is the typical time?
  • relache Nov 11, 2008 @ 9:51 pm | in reply to Sam | delete
    If your stuck, Sam, go see a piercer about changing the jewelry. And a "septum retainer" will flip up and be more low profile than a ring.
  • Sam Nov 10, 2008 @ 10:31 am | delete
    I got my septum piericed almost 5 months ago. I want to change the ring but it won't come out. I have an enclosed hoop held together by a single ball. I want to change it to an open ring so I can tuck it at work.
  • relache Nov 7, 2008 @ 10:41 am | in reply to SKILYN | delete
    Oh for heaven's sake, NO! Things made for ears are not appropriate for noses, and inexperienced and untrained people should not be doing any sort of piercing anyway.
  • SKILYN Nov 7, 2008 @ 12:35 am | delete
    CAN YOU USE A EARING TO PIERCE YOUR NOSE
  • relache Nov 6, 2008 @ 10:14 am | in reply to Nicole | delete
    Most people find that a tiny hole or dimple remains after they have had a nose piercing for a significant amount of time and then decide to take it out.
  • relache Nov 6, 2008 @ 10:13 am | in reply to Paige | delete
    You bumped the jewelry on a brand-new piercing, so it being sore is nothing special. It's barely started healing yet, so most likely nothing untoward has happened.
  • Nicole Nov 5, 2008 @ 8:16 pm | delete
    After keeping a nose piercing in for a year or longer, does it leave a scar? If so what does the scar look like?
  • Paige Nov 5, 2008 @ 12:33 am | delete
    I got my nose pierced a couple days ago. All is going well, except for tonight I somehow managed to knock it half out of the hole. It didn't come all the way out though, just about half the length of the screw. I pushed it back in and cleaned the piercing, but now it hurts a little bit. Is this something that happens often, or is this bad? It seems to look okay, but did I maybe mess up the healing time or tear the hole or something? Or is everything fine?
  • relache Nov 4, 2008 @ 5:53 pm | in reply to Lauran | delete
    I absolutely do not recommend stretching a nose piercing, or any cartilage piercing actually (since that type of tissues does NOT stretch), so just stick with whatever size you have now.
  • Lauran Nov 4, 2008 @ 5:31 pm | delete
    I just got my nose pierced. What size gauge should I order when I get ready in 3 months to replace it.
  • relache Nov 4, 2008 @ 10:50 am | in reply to Chan | delete
    If by "a little stud" you mean a nose bone, it's going to hurt no matter when you take it out.
  • Chan Nov 3, 2008 @ 7:28 pm | delete
    i got my nose pierced about a month ago and it doesnt hurt or anything it feels fine but when i try to take it out it hurts the bottom.. by the way i have a little stud, but i was wondering if it will stop hurting after the 3 month healing process?
  • relache Nov 3, 2008 @ 10:55 am | in reply to LINDA | delete
    The answer to all your questions is "yes." If you need help, I suggest visiting a piercing shop local to you for assistance.
  • LINDA Nov 2, 2008 @ 2:57 pm | delete
    I changed my nose screw today. It looks nice but when I tilt my head back (even just slighlty) the wire is visible. Can it be tightened or pinched so that it lays closer to the inside of the nostril? Is there a tool needed to do that, because I pinched it as tight as I could with my fingers but it still shows?
  • relache Nov 2, 2008 @ 10:49 am | in reply to Jasmina L. | delete
    Most likely your nose is swollen, but then again, if the jewelry is fitted poorly, it might always stick up. As for the nose bone, I can't do anything to help you with that. That's why I urge people to educate themselves before they get pierced, not afterwards.
  • Jasmina L. Nov 1, 2008 @ 7:37 pm | delete
    Hi, I just got my nose pierced today. And the stud doesnt sit flat on my nose...is that bad? Or is it from my nose being swollen? Also the piercer put a nose bone in and reading all this about nose bones hurting when you take it out, its starting to scare me.
  • relache Oct 29, 2008 @ 10:10 am | in reply to Lylia | delete
    Lydia, what you do is up to you. I've clearly said why I feel people shouldn't get pierced with "guns" but whether you do or not is your own choice, as is whether or not you keep such a piercing.
  • Lylia Oct 28, 2008 @ 4:55 pm | delete
    I did my nose ring today. It's the 2nd time I do it with a gun. However i've been reading all these articles about how bad it is. The first time I did it, it was good for about 2 months but I stopped cleaning it and it got infected. It's been like 1 year since the last time I did it. But I'm scared about all the things the articles said. Should I take it off? What should I do?
  • relache Oct 24, 2008 @ 3:35 pm | in reply to Nikki | delete
    I'm sorry to say but whoever pierced your nose is totally clueless. Nose piercings must stay in place for three MONTHS, not three hours in order to heal. Your nose piercing most likely closed up as soon as your took out the jewelry.
  • relache Oct 24, 2008 @ 3:33 pm | in reply to Melanie | delete
    It sounds like your piercer didn't account for the fact that new nose piercings swell up, which is why your nose ring is sinking into the piercing. If it's causing problems for you, the only solution is to go back to your piercer and get the jewelry refitted.
  • relache Oct 24, 2008 @ 3:31 pm | in reply to Sarah | delete
    I've got no idea why your nose is having such a bad time, but you might want to go back to your piercer and get their opinion.
  • relache Oct 24, 2008 @ 3:26 pm | in reply to Casey | delete
    the big issue isn't the pain, but the fact that repiercing in the exact same spot may contribute to the formation of more scar tissue which can cause visible bumps to form next to the piercing.
  • relache Oct 24, 2008 @ 3:24 pm | in reply to Lindsay | delete
    if you have a metal sensitivity in your ears, it's going to hold true for any body piercings you get. DO NOT WEAR SILVER IN A HEALING NOSE, or you may wind up with a permanent black spot in and around the piercing.
  • Nikki Oct 20, 2008 @ 8:42 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced today. The lady said minimum 3 hours it must stay inside my nose. I took it out of my nose a while ago and when i tried putting it back inside, I couldn't see the hole on the inside so i don't know where it is, so the piercing wont go back inside. I don't know how to find the hole on the inside, or if it closed ALREADY! please help!
  • Melanie Oct 19, 2008 @ 5:24 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced 3 days ago. It looks great, but I'm not too sure about the way the hole is healing. She put a nostril screw in, and it keeps twisting around and sometimes, if I'm not careful, the end sits right on the inside of my nose, on the verge of being seen. Is there anything I can do about that w/o messing it up? And, I feel like the "gem" on the end is possibly going through the hole...is this possible?? It sits flush w/ my nose right now...is that normal??
  • Sarah Oct 17, 2008 @ 6:28 am | delete
    I got my nose pierced about 4 weeks ago. the ring fell out about 2 weeks after getting it pierced. i had another nose ring and could not get it in. so i stuck an earing in there, till i could get to the studio to have them show me how to put a new one in. in this time everything was going well. but now it seems like i have a scab or even like a meaty piece of skin over the top of the piercing. it does not want to heal and my piercing keeps getting stuck to it and if i hit it, it will bleed. is there anything i can do, to get this scab to heal right? i am still cleaning my nose how they told me to.
  • Lindsay Oct 13, 2008 @ 3:06 pm | delete
    I have had my nose pierced since mid May and it still hasn't healed. I get a bump, it goes away. I get another bump. It bleeds. Sometimes there's a little pus. I wonder if I need to wear some other metal. I have always had trouble with my ears unless I wear silver or gold. What do you think?
  • Casey Oct 11, 2008 @ 3:38 pm | delete
    I had my nose pierced a while ago and it got the bump a few months after i got it probably from changing the stud so much.
    I was wondering, would it hurt really badly to get it done again in the same spot? I heard it may because of the scar tissue?
  • relache Oct 2, 2008 @ 7:14 pm | delete
    Nikki, it's best to wait at least three months before changing jewelry unless it's the jewelry itself that is causing some sort of problem.
  • Nikki Oct 2, 2008 @ 6:34 pm | delete
    How long should I wait before changing out my nose piercing? It's been about 4 weeks and I'm dying to put in something cuter. I haven't had any problems and it's healed beautifully. Any suggestions?
  • relache Oct 1, 2008 @ 10:35 am | delete
    Actually, at the 1 1/2 month point, your nose is still healing and a slightly looser fit should enable you to clean the piercing better.
  • Sofia Sep 30, 2008 @ 5:44 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced about a month and a half ago. The crystal fell off the stud I had in it, so I went and got another, I've been using the L-shaped kind. I just changed it and I think the length of the L is different from the one I had in before, so it just feels a bit looser to me. Is it bad if the one I have isn't necessarily as tight on the end as the one I had previously? I'm just nervous about it falling out...
  • relache Sep 25, 2008 @ 1:18 pm | delete
    Emily, those saline products should be fine.
  • Emily Sep 25, 2008 @ 12:16 pm | delete
    The guy who did my piercing sold me this purified sea salt stuff to clean it with. The instructions that came with it tell me not to use any other products while using it (although he didn't say anything like that. . . just not to use alcohol or peroxide), but I was wondering if it should be okay to use Saline nose spray or like AYR saline gel (used for infants), just to keep it moist, so the inside of my nose doesn't scab or crust.
  • relache Sep 24, 2008 @ 5:35 pm | delete
    Erynn, if you can gently swab on the inside, that would really help. Wear the jewelry however it's comfortable, but if you can find more than one position that is comfy, that's better.
  • Erynn Sep 24, 2008 @ 10:50 am | delete
    I got my nostril piercing 4 days ago, and really haven't had any trouble with it. I have a stainless nose screw in, and I'm wondering if I'm cleaning it correctly. I'm using saline solution on a Q-tip to clean the outside. But do I need to turn it? Is there a certain way the hook on the inside should face, or just whatever is most comfortable? Should I rotate it, or leave it in position. When I spray the saline solution on the outside, I can't tell if it's going all the way through. What is the best way to clean the inside, or should I just leave it alone rather than risk irritating it?
  • relache Sep 22, 2008 @ 9:14 pm | delete
    Ana, I've heard people report this problem with nipple piercings when they are brand new. Give it some time and I bet it settles down.
  • relache Sep 22, 2008 @ 9:13 pm | delete
    Mai, do you have a metal sensitivity? Go back and see your piercer, as clearly somethings not right for it to still not be healed.
  • Ana Sep 21, 2008 @ 10:16 pm | delete
    i just got my septum done, and the ring keeps flipping upwords and hugging the tip of my nose. No matter what i do i just cant seem to keep it down.
    Is this normal? What should I do?
  • mai. Sep 21, 2008 @ 4:23 am | delete
    i have nose pierced in feb and it is still not getting better. i dont want to close it.
  • relache Sep 16, 2008 @ 10:53 pm | delete
    CoCo, I think you need to go see your piercer and have them take a look at it. I don't think "tissue" or "membrane" sounds appropriate to anything that yo should be seeing.
  • CoCo Chanel Sep 16, 2008 @ 2:21 pm | delete
    I got my nose piercing about a month ago, there is no back on the ring and I think the inside of my nose is closing, but I have a mucousy opening that is red on top of my nose which is stil a little swollen. I keep neosporin on it, but I'm worying if I will have "the bump" because of the way it is healing. Am I suppose to see tissue or membrane from the piercing?
  • relache Sep 12, 2008 @ 12:25 am | delete
    Julie, if you wish to keep the piercing, keep the jewelry in and take care of it like you did when it was brand new.
  • Julie Noufal Sep 11, 2008 @ 11:01 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced back in June, & it some days looks good, But just this evening it looks likea blood bump is there I push it & blood came out What should I do, take the ring out, Keep cleaning w/ salt sanitizer that the piercer gave me!
  • Hannah Sep 11, 2008 @ 5:13 pm | delete
    Thanks for your help, am making a visit to my piercer to have it checked out! Salty water hot compresses are working though too! The screw is definately too loose!
  • relache Sep 9, 2008 @ 5:52 pm | delete
    Hannah, you'll want to have a piercer look at that jewelry for you and see if that's contributing to your nose woes. I can only guess.
  • Hannah Sep 7, 2008 @ 2:14 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced in May and it still does not seem to have healed properly! I have taken care cleaning it and ' the bump' comes and goes but has never stayed permanently! I am wondering whether it is because my l-shaped ring has become too loose( as the end sometimes appears out of my nostril) and is irritating the hole? Advice would be greatly appreciated!
  • relache Sep 6, 2008 @ 9:05 am | delete
    Reema, all I can say is that septum piercings take longer to heal than a conventional nostril piercing.
  • reema Sep 6, 2008 @ 1:31 am | delete
    i pierced my both nostrils & septum same day nostril piercings are healed but septum not please advice
  • relache Sep 5, 2008 @ 10:50 am | delete
    Tara, if it's something that comes and goes, that doesn't quite sound like an infection. If it's a newer piercing that's now healing closed, it may act up from time to time as the hole closes down.
  • Tara Sep 4, 2008 @ 10:24 am | delete
    I have removed my nose peircing about 4 months ago and have not put one back in. Today woke up with like a zit in that same spot, this has happened twice since I removed my nose ring. Is this an infection?
  • relache Sep 4, 2008 @ 9:58 am | delete
    Alicia, you just had our nose pierced, and unhealed holes can bleed. Take care as much as you can not to sleep on your new nose piercing or snag the jewelry in any way, and your nose will begin healing soon.
  • Alicia Sep 2, 2008 @ 2:20 pm | delete
    i got my nostril pierced on August 31, its been bleeding a little and i was wondering if there is anything i should particularly worry about when it comes to the bleeding?
  • relache Aug 30, 2008 @ 8:32 am | delete
    Sam, your nose piercing is still to new to change the jewelry, it might just close up if you take it out. And as for why you can't take it out, I don't understand why you are having a problem. Nose jewelry is taken out by doing the reverse of what wa done to put it in.
  • Sam Aug 30, 2008 @ 12:25 am | delete
    Hey i got my nose pierced one month ago and i cant take the stud out. And i want to know ho can i take it off and changed
  • relache Aug 28, 2008 @ 9:49 am | delete
    Di, for some people, the piercing does tighten down from them wearing smaller jewelry.
  • Di Aug 28, 2008 @ 9:17 am | delete
    Hey i got my nose repierced 10 months ago, and i finally took it out and changed it yesterday (i wanted it to heal properly this time). the stud i'm wearing now has a really small gauge (diameter). it's thinner than the needle of a safety pin. will this make the hole to shrink, making it harder for me to replace the stud?
  • relache Aug 16, 2008 @ 11:14 am | delete
    Stephanie, if you wind up changing your nose jewelry a lot, it could be annoying, but overall the size difference between 18g and 20g is really minimal and shouldn't bother you.
  • relache Aug 16, 2008 @ 11:12 am | delete
    Lindsey, if the stud is too tight to your nose, it won't allow room for swelling and proper cleaning. What you think looks stupid is a lot healthier at this stage than a tight stud.
  • Stephanie Aug 13, 2008 @ 1:50 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced six months ago and am going to change it for the first time. The new stud I bought is 20 gauge, but I've read that piercing studios usually use 18 gauge initially. Do I need to worry about the hole shrinking?
  • Lindsey Aug 12, 2008 @ 5:50 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced 1 day ago and the stud wont stay against my nose it pops out very far. I push it back in and when i talk or move my nose it pushes back out and it looks stupid. Is this normal???
  • relache Aug 11, 2008 @ 5:36 pm | delete
    Kim, you sound like you know the potential healing drawbacks of changing the jewelry or not. I think you should go with whatever works best overall for you.
  • kim Aug 11, 2008 @ 12:18 pm | delete
    i got my nose pierced july 4th.....well i changed it i know i shouldnt have because now i got a silver bone in and i have been reading and im scared about how silver can affect you and i was wondering if i should try to take it out or should i leave it in until it heals and what is the chances of it leaving the black mark? thanks
  • relache Aug 11, 2008 @ 11:02 am | delete
    Samantha, scroll back up and read more about nose care right on this page. You'll find links to info on healing and aftercare, and adverse effects, listed under "The Nose Knows."
  • samantha Aug 10, 2008 @ 2:14 am | delete
    umm ok i have this nose stud right and it grew a lil buble and i think its infected wut should i do i mean i dont want to take it off
  • relache Aug 6, 2008 @ 11:46 pm | delete
    Kirsten, what jewelry you want to wear is up to you. Try and find a piercer with jewelry know-how who will adjust or "fit" your jewelry, that scraping on the inside should be something that can be fixed.
  • Kirsten Aug 6, 2008 @ 10:41 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced over three months ago, and it has healed very nicely, but the hook shaped screw moves around in my nose and scrapes up the inside of my nostril, especially at night. I'm a little hesitant to get a bone; what would you recommend?
  • relache Aug 5, 2008 @ 7:04 pm | delete
    Heather, my nose piercing ebook (linked on this page) goes into detail about how to try and get rid of those bumps.
  • Heather Aug 5, 2008 @ 4:39 pm | delete
    I have a bump that has formed around my nose piercing which I know is common. I soak it twice a day for 5 minutes each with sea salt and water on a cotton ball. How can I get rid of the bump? The piercing is 1month and 1 week old and I have had the bump for over 2 weeks now.
  • relache Aug 1, 2008 @ 1:24 pm | delete
    Sam, there's no way to predict how your nose will respond. That's still a rather young piercing. It might stay open, it might close.
  • Sam Jul 31, 2008 @ 8:33 pm | delete
    Situation: performing on stage... Is it safe to take out a nose stud and leaving it out for a period of days after having it untouched for 7 months? If not, and only if not, a clear retainer shows - any suggestions to cover up?
  • relache Jul 26, 2008 @ 9:21 am | delete
    J, are you sure that the ball end unscrews? Because if it's a nose bone, they don't, and you have to just pull them out. I suggest going to a piercing shop for a second opinion and some help.
  • j Jul 25, 2008 @ 9:50 pm | delete
    so i got my nose pierced like two years ago and i havn't figured out how to take it out yet. it's a stud, and as far as i can tell, there's a ball at the other end that i'm supposed to unscrew. but i cannot for the life of me get to the ball to unscrew it! what should i do?
  • relache Jul 25, 2008 @ 9:51 am | delete
    Emily, what I have written further up on the lens is it for advice and suggestions. All I can say at this point is "Good luck!"
  • Emily Jul 24, 2008 @ 2:22 pm | delete
    i was just reading about how you dont recommend nosebones because the get stuck in..and thats exactly whats happened to me..what should i do??
  • relache Jul 23, 2008 @ 10:37 am | delete
    Renee, the longer you keep the ring in, the more likely the chance of the hole showing longer after you take it out.
  • Renee Jul 22, 2008 @ 10:10 pm | delete
    Ok so i got my nose pierced in April? maybe a bit earlier than that and ive had this little bubble beside my nose stud and it would always go away and come back and its back now, and im thinking i wanna just take my piercing for good. do i have to wait till it heals? or can i just take it out? and if i do take it out will the hole close soon?
  • relache Jul 12, 2008 @ 11:12 pm | delete
    Grace, getting an infection doesn't mean you automatically have to take the piercing out. You should wait at least three months for your nose to full heal and then talk with a reputable piercer about placement. If you have scar tissue, you WON'T want to pierce in the exact same spot.
  • Grace Jul 12, 2008 @ 9:26 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced and it got infected it has cleared up since then. How long do I have to wait to try again and can I get it in the same place?
  • relache Jul 12, 2008 @ 1:45 pm | delete
    Mandy, you'll have to ask them on a case-by-case basis as everyone's personal preference is different.
  • mandy Jul 12, 2008 @ 12:00 pm | delete
    domen find it attractive for a woman to have her nose pierced?
  • relache Jul 12, 2008 @ 11:24 am | delete
    AJ, I can't commnet on UK age rules for piercing, but in the US, a lot of places you'd be legally too young, even with your mum's permission. Piercing guns don't get properly sterilized between users, which means they can transmit HIV and hepatitis. I tell EVERYONE to avoid them totally!
  • AJ Jul 11, 2008 @ 1:12 pm | delete
    I'm booked in and going to get my nose pierced in a few days, the only thing I was wondering about was the fact that the woman pierces noses with a gun. My older brother got his pierced a few years ago and his was done at the same place but his went septic, he messed about with it mind you and pulled the stud out within a couple of weeks. the infection cleared up pretty quickly thought, also my mum had hers done with a gun on a market stall and hers was perfectly fine, so is there much chance there will be any complications for me? And does it make any difference that i'm still young (going to be 14 in about a week)
  • relache Jul 9, 2008 @ 11:43 am | delete
    Hannah, you shouldn't go swimming with a fresh nose piercing, so it would be better for you to NOT get pierced before you go on your vacation.
  • relache Jul 9, 2008 @ 11:34 am | delete
    Nicky, the piercing can dry out and actually stick to the ring. Soak the piercing and slowly wiggle it to loosen it up, then be sure to clean all the dried material off the ring.
  • Hannah Jul 8, 2008 @ 10:58 pm | delete
    I was want to get my nosed pierced, but I am going to the beach in two weeks. I was wondering if I should wait till after the beach or if it was okay to get it before hand. Thanks!
  • Nicky Jul 6, 2008 @ 8:16 pm | delete
    I am trying to clean my nose ring hoop and it won't budge! what do I do? It is seamless and I think its stuck
  • relache Jun 27, 2008 @ 10:30 am | delete
    Stacy, I'm not sure why you can't get the jewelry back into place yourself. After all, part of it's supposed to stick out the bottom... Be aware, if you take it out entirely, there's a chance the piercing canal can close down. You might want to go back and see your piercer for help.
  • Stacy Jun 27, 2008 @ 12:33 am | delete
    I just got my nose pierced almost 3 weeks and have a n L shaped(screw) in it and i went to blow my nose and the bar is sticking out of the bottom of my nose and i cant get it back inside my nose. Should i take it out and put it back in? What should I do to fix this? Its really uncomfortable and doesn't look good with the bar just hanging out of my nose. Thanks!!!
  • relache Jun 21, 2008 @ 8:51 pm | delete
    Janki, since nose piercings are through cartilage and not soft tissue, they often don't close all the way, no matter what you do.
  • relache Jun 21, 2008 @ 8:46 pm | delete
    Christina, after a year, it shouldn't be red still. You might wish to switch to a care regimen that is milder, or check to make sure your jewelry isn't too short.
  • Janki Parmar Jun 18, 2008 @ 1:47 pm | delete
    Hey,well ive had my nose pierced for about 5 years or so, and the hole it stretched and so ive been pretty much using bio-oil on the 'scar' well i wanted to know if there is any possible way if i do not wear it for about a years or something to make the hole close up or even make it smaller because the hole looks big because its been stretched...thanks alot,much appreciated
  • christina Jun 18, 2008 @ 11:01 am | delete
    I got my nose pierced over a year ago and it still looks red. I clean it 3 times a day. However I have a 14kt gold stud with a diamond. Should I switch to a silver hoop?
  • relache Jun 11, 2008 @ 12:46 pm | delete
    Lea, the module on this page "information about nose piercings" has some tips for healing keloids, as does my eBook. The trick is to take care of your nose as gently as possible.
  • Lea Jun 11, 2008 @ 10:45 am | delete
    Hi I got my nose pierced about 4 weeks ago and there is a keloid forming around it! How can I take care of this so it goes away, will it heal if I keep soaking it in sea salt and water? Or will I just have to take it out?
  • relache Jun 8, 2008 @ 10:48 pm | delete
    Melanie, if your nose was just pierced, and you take out the jewelry this soon, your nose piercing might close up. You're going to have to clean around it as best you can (L-bars aren't recommended as starter jewelry for this reason). In three months, you can change it out.
  • melinie Jun 8, 2008 @ 12:48 pm | delete
    i recently pierced my nose and cannot get the L shaped ring out to b cleaned or changed....how do i do so??
  • relache Jun 7, 2008 @ 4:37 pm | delete
    Marie, a piercer would be in a better position to help you replace the jewelry with something that fits appropriately, whereas a doctor will probably just take it out. It's your choice which option would work better for you.
  • marie Jun 7, 2008 @ 9:24 am | delete
    I have an L-shaped nose piercing in my nose and it was tightened 48hrs. ago, and I woke up this morning and found that it has now disappeared within my nose. What should I do now...go back to the piercing place or a doctor's and get it removed?
    Thank you for your help with this distressful situation. Marie
  • relache Jun 5, 2008 @ 10:57 am | delete
    Trace, your nose wasn't fully healed when the jewelry came out, and it probably closed up when that happened. If you can't get to a piercer and get the jewelry back in that first day it's come out, you'll have to let it heal up (3 months) and then get it pierced again.
  • trace Jun 5, 2008 @ 3:36 am | delete
    hi,i got my nose pierced 5 weeks ago.and was cleaning it.when it came out.but tried to put it back in.and couldnt.what do i do ?
  • relache May 29, 2008 @ 9:45 pm | delete
    If the post is too short, or if the bead end is too small, the jewelry is often pulled down into the piercing, which causes problems. As far as good quality jewelry goes, make sure you know what metal it's made of. Stainless steel or gold hold up better over time.
  • Tina May 28, 2008 @ 10:33 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced about 4 or 5 months ago and I've never had any problem with it. It healed well and the only small bump that developed went away within a week. I want to change the stud now to something smaller, but my piercer warned me against posts that are too small and can form small cuts in the peircing. What do you know about this and how can I tell if the jewelry I am buying is of god quality?
  • relache May 21, 2008 @ 11:11 am | delete
    Danni, if your piercing tightens up around the post of the nose bone, taking it in and out is going to be difficult and painful. I can't predict what your nose is going to do, in fact, no one can. This is a case of you having to find out for yourself just how your nose reacts. As I said in the jewelry module further up the lens, I don't recommend nose bones.
  • Danni May 20, 2008 @ 7:17 pm | delete
    I don't plan on leaving the Nose Bones in the hole for long periods of time, maybe a day or two at the most, and for special occasions.

    Would the hole still shrink after just a short period of time?
  • relache May 20, 2008 @ 4:54 pm | delete
    Danni, nose bones seem to make the most people the most unhappy as far as jewelry goes. They are very painful to put in and take out, due to the "backing" being a permanently-affixed bead. And yes, they often have to be cut off to be removed.
  • Danni May 20, 2008 @ 4:33 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced about a year ago, and haven't changed the nose screw at all yet, but I want to change it now.
    I bought some nose bone piercings, but when I brought them home, my friend immediately told me that they're not good, at all.
    She said that they'll make my nose ring close up, and that I'll have to have it cut out of my nose if I want to get it taken out.
    Are they really that bad?
  • relache May 16, 2008 @ 9:31 am | delete
    Kelsooo5, if you read about nose healing, it takes 3 MONTHS for a nose piercing to heal. So, no, it's not appropriate for you to change to something acrylic or nylon after only three weeks.
  • relache May 16, 2008 @ 9:29 am | delete
    Ana, antibiotic ointment will only help if you have an infection. It won't help if your piercing is forming scar tissue.
  • relache May 16, 2008 @ 9:27 am | delete
    April, you just have to spiral it back out, the reverse of putting it in.
  • Kelsooo5 May 8, 2008 @ 10:17 pm | delete
    I play soccer, and i'm planning on getting my nose pierced this weekend for my birthday. My next game is in 22 days.. Will i be able to take it out and put in a clear one or no?
  • Ana May 7, 2008 @ 9:28 pm | delete
    I JUST RECENTLY GOT A NOSE PIERCING AND I HAVE A BIG LUMP, SOMEONE TOLD ME TO APPLY TRIPLE ANTI-BIOTIC, IS THIS A GOOD IDEA AND IF NOT WHAT CAN I DO FOR THE LUMP TO GO DOWN?
  • April May 5, 2008 @ 12:40 am | delete
    What is the easiest way to remove a nose screw?
  • relache Apr 27, 2008 @ 1:03 am | delete
    Kayla, since you can't even be bothered to read piercing care tips when they are put right in front of you (this lens), I don't think you have the appropriate skills/training or intelligence to be piercing yourself. Save yourself the infection and scar tissue and just don't.
  • Kayla Apr 27, 2008 @ 12:42 am | delete
    I want to peirce my nose, but getting it done professionally seems to be kinda expensive. So, I plan on doing it myself. What kind of stud would be good for this? And any tips on peircing/taking care of it? Thanks.
  • jewelrygrandma Apr 24, 2008 @ 2:00 pm | delete
    Excellent article.
  • relache Apr 23, 2008 @ 7:34 pm | delete
    Layla, you probably are irritating it more by wearing a stud. In fact, if you are wearing one that fits somewhat snugly, that's probably what's making your nose flare up, not genuine infections. What you think is an infection might be your nose trying to form scar tissue from the repeat piercings. You should consult with a knowledgeable piercer who can see your nose in person.
  • layla Apr 23, 2008 @ 5:22 am | delete
    hi,
    i have got my nose pierces 3 times. its been almost a year since i got this done but it keeps getting infected, even though i clean it with tcp and hotwater with salt. whats teh best kind of nose stud to wear at the moment?
  • relache Apr 17, 2008 @ 8:54 am | delete
    Kathryn, I honestly suggest you don't get pierced as nose piercing involves both needles and some pain.
  • Kathryn Apr 16, 2008 @ 4:33 pm | delete
    hi, im considering getting my nose pierced this summer. only problem is, i really don't like needles. how exactly is it done? and does it hurt?
  • relache Apr 15, 2008 @ 12:46 am | delete
    Jen, there's no way of predicting if your nose will stay open or not. Everyone's piercings act differently. I say, if you're old enough to be getting married, you can decide for yourself whether to wear your piercing or not, regardless of what your parents think.
  • Jen Apr 14, 2008 @ 2:18 pm | delete
    Hello,

    I've had my nose pierced for two and a half years, it healed very well and doesn't hurt. My parents are asking me to take the stud out for my wedding. Will it be alright or do you think the piercing can close?

    Thank you
  • relache Apr 13, 2008 @ 10:39 am | delete
    Linda, allergy season is a tough one that can't really be gotten around. I'd try to reduce the swelling ahead of any attempt at removing the jewelery. A little extra cleaning and care might just solve your problem.
  • Linda Apr 12, 2008 @ 10:28 pm | delete
    Hi,
    quick question: My nose has been pierced for almost a year. pretty well healed. Allergy season is upon us, and started blowing my nose more. Noticed the stud hurt, and when I checked, it appears i've got an "ingrown" tip of the post into the inside of my nose!! It's kinda swollen in there...shall i go back and have it pulled out, (ouch) or wait for the swelling to go down? using tea tree oil for the pain. ( it helps) Thanks much!
  • relache Apr 9, 2008 @ 12:47 pm | delete
    Allison, since you are slowly working on developing some good scar tissue in your nose, I suggest you either change your line of work to something where nose piercings aren't an issue or just give up wearing that type of piercing.
  • Allison Apr 9, 2008 @ 12:29 pm | delete
    I have had my nose pierced for the third time in 10 years - I keep having to take it out for various jobs I've had who ban it.
    My current employer permits nose piercings on "cultural or religious grounds" only. I do not have any religion, and am a 27 year old white female in England. Any suggestions on how to argue to keep this in this time?!
  • relache Apr 5, 2008 @ 1:29 pm | delete
    Kim, your nose hurts because 1) it's not healed and 2) you are wearing a bad type of jewelry for healing. Noses take 3 months to heal on average, and you should not be taking the jewelry out at all right now. Also, bones have that large back end, which is essentially ripping the inside of the healing piercing each time you pull it out. And once it heals, it wil still hurt to remove it if you continue to wear that style of stud (they just hurt to remove according to everyone who wears them).
  • Kim Apr 5, 2008 @ 3:32 am | delete
    I have had my nose pierced for near 6 weeks now and have had a slight infectoin for the last 2 weeks. I was told it was from taking it out. It now hurts everytime I try to take it out. It doesnt hurt normally though. It is pierced with a nose bone with like a spear on the bottom. Is there anyway I could take it out without it hurting?
  • relache Apr 3, 2008 @ 5:14 pm | delete
    Helen, the only time I've known people to wind up with a permanent black mark on a nose piercing is when they heal the piercing while wearing sterling silver. Gold is non-reactive, so unless your jewelry was just gold-plated, the gold didn't cause that mark.
  • Helen Apr 3, 2008 @ 2:59 pm | delete
    I had a nose ring for a few years and have just recently taken it out. It was gold and now there is a black tarnish mark left in it's place. Is there andything I can do to get rid of it?
  • relache Apr 3, 2008 @ 12:07 pm | delete
    Ashley, that's not only going to vary from person to person, how long you had your nose pierced will also be a factor. It could range from one day to never.
  • Ashley Apr 2, 2008 @ 8:14 pm | delete
    How long can you leave your nose ring out before it closes up?
  • relache Mar 29, 2008 @ 9:47 am | delete
    The stud is sinking in because your nose is swollen slightly (as happens to ALL piercings) and that type of jewelry doesn't allow any extra room to let the piercing breathe. The only thing you can do is go to a professional piercing studio (not the place you got it done with the piercing gun) and get it swapped for a ring or longer stud.
  • kaimaiya Mar 28, 2008 @ 11:34 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced on tuesday it is saturday now. i got it pierced with a gun which i didn't know thats bad, but its starting to sink in is that bad what should i do?
  • relache Mar 14, 2008 @ 2:20 pm | delete
    Regalty, it sounds like your nose gets irritated by the nose blowing every time you get sick. If it's been happening for a year now, not much is going to disrupt the cycle. You can try putting tea tree oil on it or you may have to take it out.
  • REGALTY Mar 14, 2008 @ 12:37 pm | delete
    I keep getting a bump on my nose ring everytime i get sick and blow my nose a lot. i was told to put grapefruit seed oil on it and it usually heals within a week and the bump is gone. this time it is not healing that fast and the bump is big. what should i do? i dont want to take it out but whats your opinion. this has been happening for almost a year now.
  • relache Mar 3, 2008 @ 5:57 pm | delete
    Alice, if you can find a reputable body piercer, they might be able to take out the stud and replace it with better-fitting jewelry. If not, your only option would be to abandon the piercing and just take out the stud. Having constant headaches is NOt a good sign.
  • Alice Mar 3, 2008 @ 2:45 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced a week ago with a gun, i found out that you are not suppose to use gun, It is sore and causing me headaches... It is also a little red, what should I do? I do not want to take it out but I dont want it to get worst
  • Wednesday.B Feb 25, 2008 @ 2:19 pm | delete
    thanks relache for the answer, i will double check with the dr, the stud fell out anyway and the hole has almost complely closed up! i will have it reopened with needle and a ring.
  • relache Feb 24, 2008 @ 9:53 am | delete
    Wednesday, the decision to go to your doctor or not is yours to make, based on how clean or not you think your nose piercing conditions were. If you go to a reputable piercer, they should be able to switch the super-tight stud for something that fits better and you should still be able to heal the piercing just fine.
  • Wednesday.B Feb 24, 2008 @ 9:06 am | delete
    hey i got my nose piered with a gun and with a stud in it yesterday, i just read the Aftercare and Piercing FAQs and realised that this wasn't the best thing to do. Should i check with my doctor to make sure i havn't caught anything from previous customers who have used the gun, and that everything is ok?
    if i took the stud out now, would my nose heal without leaving an obvious mark/scar? i may consider going and repiercing with a needle instead, for a more accurate finish.thanks for any advice
  • relache Feb 23, 2008 @ 9:44 am | delete
    Rachel, to be honest, I have no idea what you are talking about when you say a "hook ring." I also don't understand when you ask if it's going to heal up better... better than what? If you've got questions, GO BACK TO YOUR PIERCER who can actually look at your nose. And BTW, a nose piercing is a "hole" whereas all the parts of something are a "whole."
  • rachel Feb 22, 2008 @ 4:46 pm | delete
    hi, i pierced my nose a week ago, but the piercer told me i should pierce my nose with a surgical steel "hook" ring first. The kind of ring with a hook so it doesnt fall out. anyway i did it, and im waiting for it to heal so i can put my ring of choice in. He said i would be able to, but now im beginning to think that my whole is too big and my smaller ring wont fit? is this true? or is the whole going to heal up better? also, i feel like the ball is sinking into the hole, is this normal? please get back to me soon, because if its going to give me problems i would rather take the ring out now while i still have a chance.
  • relache Feb 20, 2008 @ 2:02 pm | delete
    The swelling that comes with a new piercing can make jewelry fit too tightly. If you can't push the jewelry up enough to clean around it, it can lead to irritation and the friction can contribute to scar tissue bumps forming. You might want to have your piercer take a look at it.
  • April Feb 20, 2008 @ 12:49 pm | delete
    i have a question i got my nose pierced on 2/14/08 and the stud has sank in on the top of my nose is doesnt hurt i want to know if thats normal or should i contact my piercer?
  • Feb 18, 2008 @ 10:25 pm | delete
    Wow! Nice information on nose piercing.The culture of nose piercing is found in most parts of the world.It has got both advantages and disadvantages of nose piercing.
  • relache Feb 10, 2008 @ 9:04 am | delete
    Debbie, I don't think the question is "should" so much as "can...?" This is something you need to discuss with your doctor in regards to your personal situation regarding wound healing issues or resistance to infection.
  • Debbie Feb 10, 2008 @ 12:02 am | delete
    should a person with diabetes get a nose piercing?
  • relache Feb 8, 2008 @ 12:37 am | delete
    Pam, your fresh piercing closed down when the ring came out. There's no secret, you either have to force the jewelry back through, or go back to a piercer for help. You might even have to let it heal and get repierced if it's been out for a few days as it might be healing shut already.
  • Pam Feb 7, 2008 @ 4:25 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced a week ago, it came out while washing my face. It got caught on my wash cloth and I can't get the hook ring back in, what is the secret to getting it back in my nose.
  • relache Feb 6, 2008 @ 4:28 pm | delete
    emely, peroxide can often irritate or burn the skin, so that may have contributed to your keloid. Switch to warm salt water and see if that helps. Also, make sure your stud isn't tight to your nose, as friction also can cause keloids (scar tissue).
  • emely Feb 6, 2008 @ 10:22 am | delete
    i got a nos epiercing i love it but a realize that i have a keloid what cani do to get rid of it i think a irritated beacuse i would clean my sel with peroxide water what can i do to remove keloid i have a pretty nose and i dont want for it to look ugly and i dont want to remove my stud what can i do please helppppppppp sos
  • relache Feb 4, 2008 @ 11:50 pm | delete
    Lee, either bend will work. The only difference makes is that one will turn clockwise to go in and the other will go counter clockwise. And wait until you've had it for 3 months before you change the jewelry, that way your nose will be fully healed.
  • Lee Feb 4, 2008 @ 7:20 pm | delete
    I just had my nose pierced 4 weeks ago on my left side I'm looking to buy some nose screws and don't know if I should get the bend to the left or right.
    Thanks for your help
  • relache Jan 28, 2008 @ 9:36 am | delete
    Cassie, if you mean you're wearing a captured bead ring, you need to open/widen the ring to release the ball/bead.
  • relache Jan 28, 2008 @ 9:35 am | delete
    Jordan, you're so close to being able to legally get your nose pierced, it's not worth fighting with your dad. Just wait it out a bit longer.
  • relache Jan 28, 2008 @ 9:33 am | delete
    Sheryl, the different types of jewelry are shown on this page. You just need to be back and read more carefully.
  • Cassie Jan 27, 2008 @ 11:23 pm | delete
    I have my nose pierced, and it currently has a ring in it with a pressure ball. I need to replace it with a stud for work but the ring is so tight fit around my nose that I don't know how to remove the pressure ball. help.
  • jordan Jan 25, 2008 @ 6:59 pm | delete
    im 17 and want to get my nose peirced. my mom doesnt mind it but my dad is totally against it. i just want a small stud nothing dramatic. how do i convince him to let me get it?
  • Sheryl Jan 12, 2008 @ 8:17 pm | delete
    Nose Bones, Nose Rings - may I please ask what the difference is? Are they for different parts of your nose or can they all go in the same holes?

    I have a piercing in the left side of my nose - can I wear a Nose Bone - sorry I am just really unsure of the difference

    Thank you
    Sheryl
  • relache Jan 8, 2008 @ 7:00 pm | delete
    Christina, it's your decision as to whether you want to try and heal the piercing or abandon it. I can't make that decision for you.
  • Christina Jan 8, 2008 @ 12:47 pm | delete
    I have the same symptoms as reeno--I woke up this morning and my nostril was so swollen that it looked like the diamond would be sucked through. But I've had this piercing for a little over 2 months...
    Should I take it out?
  • relache Jan 6, 2008 @ 11:07 am | delete
    Reeno, as you yourself said, the new piercing is swollen. Studs can be problematic with piercings for just this reason, especially if the decorative ball is very small. (I recommend rings to start myself). All you can do is try not to sleep on the piercing (facedown) and wait it out.
  • reeno Jan 6, 2008 @ 3:59 am | delete
    I just got it pierced about four days ago, and it is just a little swollen. but sometimes, it lokks like the top diamond part is being sucked into the hole. especially when I wake up in the morning, you cant even see the diamond.
    why is this?
  • relache Dec 19, 2007 @ 11:29 pm | delete
    Shelly, your friends are pulling your leg with this one. There are no "meanings" to which nostril you get pierced, just personal choice.
  • shelly Dec 19, 2007 @ 11:17 pm | delete
    I was told that there are different meanings to nose piercing. I was told that if you had it pierced on the right then it ment you like other women. Can you tell me if this is true or not?
  • relache Dec 16, 2007 @ 9:38 pm | delete
    Deanna, nose rings can come in a variety of gauges (thickness). A good piercing studio will have a wide range of sizes.
  • Deanna Dec 16, 2007 @ 9:13 pm | delete
    I recently took out my nose piercing (nostril screw) for a cheerleading competition. when I tried to get it back in it wouldnt go in. i've had my nose pierced for about 4 1/2 months so i just put in a thin L bar. i want to switch to a ring, are there rings that are thin like small L bars?
  • relache Dec 14, 2007 @ 10:27 am | delete
    Christine, go back up to "how to wear a nostril screw" and follow the directions in reverse. I tell folks to clean piercings with whatever their piercer suggested, or you can use a commercial piercing cleaning solution.
  • relache Dec 14, 2007 @ 10:23 am | delete
    Meaghan, it sounds like you might have a keloid. My ebook (scroll back up the page) talks about how to deal with those.
  • relache Dec 14, 2007 @ 10:17 am | delete
    Dixie, if your worried about pain, don't do it. And individual healing time if you decide to abandon a piercing can't be predicted, as everyone's body is different.
  • Christine Dec 12, 2007 @ 5:31 pm | delete
    How do you remove a nose screw? And what are some safe cleaning substances to use daily?
  • meaghan Dec 11, 2007 @ 11:12 pm | delete
    so i got my nose pierced october 28th and its now december 11th. a month after i got it done, even sooner i was sleeping and i work up and my nose ring wasnt in . then i started changing it. after awhile; last week it started to form a big bump looking like a pimple how can i get rid of it PLEASE!!!
  • dixie Dec 11, 2007 @ 7:31 pm | delete
    well i'm thinking about getting my nose piercing but i think it will be painfull? is it very painfull? well i want to know that what if i don't like my piercing after the 3 months how long will it take the piercing to close .
  • relache Dec 8, 2007 @ 1:15 pm | delete
    Wendi, not everyone gets a bump, but some people do. Often it's due to trauma to the nasal cartilage or fluids in the area as part of the healing process.
  • wendi Dec 8, 2007 @ 12:35 pm | delete
    I am wondering when you first pierce your nose why do you get a lump in the inside
  • relache Nov 23, 2007 @ 11:46 pm | delete
    Chrys, it takes three months to heal a nose piercing before you are supposed to start changing jewelry. Too soon and the piercing can get irritated or suffer a healing setback.
  • Chrys Nov 23, 2007 @ 11:42 pm | delete
    I want to get my nose pierced but I'm in the military so it can't be visible in uniform. How long do I have to wait after getting my nose pierced to put a spacer in?
  • relache Nov 22, 2007 @ 9:00 pm | delete
    Nose studs can stay in place by either being bones (thicker end) or they have backings, or they can be a nose screw, in which case the end wire makes a curl. If you read this page, and look at the pics, you'll find all your answers.
  • Mell Nov 22, 2007 @ 8:55 pm | delete
    i want my nose pierced but i'm horrible with pain. plus i dont understand how a stud stays in your nose? does it fall out? and what are nose screws? thanks!
  • relache Nov 19, 2007 @ 7:11 pm | delete
    Ana, if you mean to say that the nose stud went up your nose and disappeared, you need to go to an emergency room for an X-ray so that they can find the jewelry and remove it from your sinus cavity.
  • Ana Nery Nov 19, 2007 @ 6:40 pm | delete
    I lost my nose ring, so I puted a stud in its place so it doesnt close, but the stud got up my nose! what the hell should I do? :|
  • relache Nov 11, 2007 @ 10:02 pm | delete
    There is no such thing as invisible jewelry. Even clear or flesh-colored nose studs are very visible.
  • shazzer Nov 11, 2007 @ 8:13 pm | delete
    Is there such a thing as a flesh-tone topped nose ring? I want to get my nose pierced, but I can't have a visible nose ring while at work.
  • relache Nov 8, 2007 @ 3:25 pm | delete
    Blair, "stainless" steel is just fine. The metal that will stain a new piercing is sterling silver, which tarnishes. If you change a nose piercing this soon, you risk the hole closing as soon as the first jewelry is removed, so if you must, see a professional to do it.
  • Blair Nov 8, 2007 @ 3:06 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced yesterday and i was wondering if i could take out the ring to put in another one? i read you can't have a stainless steel ring in your nose cause it'll stain the hole and i think that's what i have. so would it be okay to remove it?
  • relache Oct 30, 2007 @ 3:22 am | delete
    Gee, it's often recommended you wait three months before trying to change jewelry on a new nose piercing.
  • relache Oct 30, 2007 @ 3:21 am | delete
    Aimee, this page lists a variety of jewelry. Check some of it out!
  • relache Oct 30, 2007 @ 3:20 am | delete
    Jenna, nostril screws are spiraled into the nose and once you are past the curl, they just sort of pop down into place.
  • Gee Oct 27, 2007 @ 8:40 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced about a month and 1/2 ago... I do feel a lil pain here and there but....How soon can I change my nose ring?
  • Aimee Oct 26, 2007 @ 5:16 am | delete
    Hey, I've had my nose pierced for over two years now and prefer to wear a ring but i'm bored and want more exciting/different nose jewelry, do you know any good websites I could find something?
  • Jenna Oct 25, 2007 @ 11:05 pm | delete
    How do you put in a nose stud (screw). No, I DON'T want to know how to put in ANY other kind. I don't want the hole to close up. I had to take it out for a job but now I want to be sure I can put it back in on my own for when I'm on break. Please help!!

    Thanks
  • relache Oct 24, 2007 @ 4:01 pm | delete
    Lisa, in short... you can't. Anesthetics can only be administered by doctors or nurses, not body piercers. Anything you might be able to otherwise use would only be topical and would not actually stop the pain of the piercing. If you're really worried about pain, I say don't get pierced.
  • Lisa Oct 23, 2007 @ 4:16 pm | delete
    I'am really wanting to get my nose and/or tongue pierced. How can I numb my nose and/or tongue? I know some would say this defeats the purpose of the piercing, but I like the look, not the pain. Are there such places that pierce using lidocain or something? Hey, ya never know!
  • relache Oct 16, 2007 @ 10:52 am | delete
    Laana, the two types of jewelry are just different. Which is better is going to depend entirely on personal preference.
  • Laana Oct 16, 2007 @ 9:15 am | delete
    I recently switched my nose screw to a bone and I was wondering which of the two is better to use?
  • relache Oct 15, 2007 @ 11:54 am | delete
    Tiffany, nose piercings make pretty small holes, but with some people, they do stay even years after the jewelry is removed. As for employers, that's going to depend on what sort of career you wish to have. Opinions vary greatly and can't really be anticipated.
  • Tiffany Oct 15, 2007 @ 9:27 am | delete
    I am really wanting to get my nose pierced. My parents are concerned with how big the hole will be, and if I ever decided to get ride of my piercing will the hole grow up? They also are concerned about future employers, and how they may react to a nose peircing.
  • relache Oct 4, 2007 @ 4:18 pm | delete
    Jamie, you have to turn the jewelry as you remove it and spiral that curl of wire back out of your nose.
  • Jamie Oct 4, 2007 @ 12:41 pm | delete
    I had gotten my nose pierced 3 months ago, It's the kind that is twisted in the inside and I cant seem to remove it. Any suggestions?
  • relache Oct 2, 2007 @ 1:49 pm | delete
    Tonka, you seem to keep getting jewelry that is not fitted properly or made appropriately. Try and find a piercing studio with knowledge staff who can help you find something that fits.
  • relache Oct 2, 2007 @ 1:46 pm | delete
    Val, the smallest any piercings can be done is about 18g. Go talk with a piercer about it. Rings are the easiest to keep clean with new piercings, and are also the easiest to remove later.
  • relache Oct 2, 2007 @ 1:43 pm | delete
    Sheri, it sounds like you have a nose bone that is stuck. Either you have to pull it out, or go see a body piercer, who will probably just pull it out. That's really the only thing to do.
  • TONKA Oct 2, 2007 @ 12:57 pm | delete
    I GOT MY NOSE PIERCED ABOUT 3 WEEKS AGO. THE RING THE PUT IN MY NOSE (WHERE YOU BEND IT AT THE END) KEEP COMING OUT. I BOUGHT THE NOSE BONE TO MAKE IT NOT DO THAT, BUT WHEN I PUT IT IN, IT WAS EASY TO COME OUT TOO. YOU COULD BARELY SEE THE BALL AT THE END. WHAT IS THE PROBLEM WITH THIS PICTURE.
  • Val Oct 2, 2007 @ 12:56 pm | delete
    I want to get my nose pierced but I want it to be very small. What is the smallest gauge you can get pierced with? Also, I heard that you have to wear a ring until it heals before you switch to a screw. Is this true? I want to wear the screw right away.
  • sheri Oct 1, 2007 @ 6:51 pm | delete
    i cant seem to remove my nose stud i get half out and then it gets stuck. can anybody please help me?
  • relache Sep 27, 2007 @ 1:52 am | delete
    Jainie, I don't know why you let someone talk you into something you didn't want, but I'm sorry that happened. It's less stressful on your body to let the first piercing heal before getting more.
  • relache Sep 27, 2007 @ 1:50 am | delete
    Jess, my nose piercing eBook has info on shrinking keloids.
  • Jainie Sep 27, 2007 @ 1:35 am | delete
    I got my nostril pierced about a week and a half ago now. Originally, I wanted a septum piercing but the piercer talked me into a nostril instead. Even though I'm really happy with my nostril piercing, I'd still really like to get my septum piercing as well. Should I wait until my nostril heals?
  • Jess Sep 26, 2007 @ 8:01 pm | delete
    I got my nose pierced in India in August and it has been about 2 months. It was healing fine, but about two weeks ago I noticed a bump - I'm assuming it is a keloid. What is the best way to treat this ? I don't want to take the nose stud out? Is there a method that really works? Please help Thanks!
  • relache Sep 25, 2007 @ 4:56 pm | delete
    Tsuba, I've never seen that style of jewelry made thin/small enough for a septum. I have seen septum spikes but those are usually long and meant to be seen. The U-shaped retainers work best for a septum piercing.
  • Tsuba Sep 25, 2007 @ 4:47 pm | delete
    Hi,I've gotta a question for you about septum peircings;about retainers.I've seen the regular ones that a silver and you just flip em up inside of your nose,but I've heard that you could use a retainer for a labraret peircing (the clear one with the post and an o-ring) Is that possible?
  • relache Sep 24, 2007 @ 6:15 pm | delete
    Stephanie, acrylic is BAD for a brand-new, healing piercing. The plastic is too interactive with body fluids and can add irritation. Your best bets are hypo-allergenic *surgical-grade* steel, or a high-quality gold if you are tolerant of that.
  • Jenn Sep 24, 2007 @ 4:11 pm | delete
    Ok, I'll see a derm, thanks for your help! That really makes me mad that companies are allowed to sell jewelery like that! Their jewelery has ruined my face! I'd love to be able to sue....
  • Stephanie Sep 24, 2007 @ 1:48 pm | delete
    I'm prone to metal allergies. Someone said that I should tell my piercer this before getting my nostril pierced. He said I should go with acrylic instead of metal. He also said if I do decide to ask for it to be done with acrylic, I'll need to bring my own.. Does that make sense?
  • relache Sep 23, 2007 @ 7:06 pm | delete
    Jenn, sadly I've heard of bad jewelry causing permanent skin discoloration, but not heard of a way to get rid of it. Go see a dermatologist as they might know something that I don't or have a treatment for that.
  • Jenn Sep 23, 2007 @ 5:14 pm | delete
    I had my nose pierced, but I got a new job and had to take it out a month ago. I didn't know about nickel being so bad when it was pierced and now I have an ugly black mark where the piercing was that concealer can't hide! Will I have to live with that forever?!
  • relache Sep 19, 2007 @ 3:55 pm | delete
    Moon, I don't know who designed nose bones, but I tend to think it was someone who didn't have a pierced nose. None of the folks I know wear one as they are so difficult to put in and take out. To the best of my knowledge, they are just forced in (and out) and are very uncomfortable to change.
  • moon Sep 19, 2007 @ 3:50 pm | delete
    How to uou get that darn flexible nose bone in yiur pierced nostral, I cant?
    Ive been pierced many decades, use screws, studs and rings, but can not get that flxi bone in there...HELP
  • relache Sep 19, 2007 @ 11:54 am | delete
    If you can't have your nose pierced for school, don't get it done. NO NOSE JEWELRY IS REALLY INVISIBLE. You'll just wind up having to pay for the piercing, having your nose hurt, and then be made to take it out.
  • jayne Sep 19, 2007 @ 11:50 am | delete
    hi, i want my nose done but I wudnt b able to have it for school. Wud a quartz glass retainer b ok to wear wen i have it done, and do most piercists have them?
  • relache Sep 17, 2007 @ 9:06 pm | delete
    Kemi, I suggest you go to a piercer and see if they can get the jewelry into the right position, if you can't do it yourself. And then it would be best if you either added the ball to the ring, or changed to jewelry where this could not happen again.
  • Kemi Sep 17, 2007 @ 8:37 pm | delete
    I've had my nose pierced for about 3 months plus, but the hoop never had the ball on, because it couldn't fit. And now the ends slipped on the inside and I can't move it. It hurts alot when I try. What should I do?
  • NEWFIEGURL Sep 14, 2007 @ 4:03 pm | delete
    Had my nose pierced on sept 3, and it HURT like hell,was fine the first week, got up one morning and it is swollen and red............its a hard spot not to touch is your nose,mine gets really itchy,sometimes i hook it..if u got no patience then nose piercing is not for you.
  • relache Aug 8, 2007 @ 9:15 am | delete
    Cassie, your nose piercing might close. Nose piercings take about 3 months to heal. Plus, if you can't wear it for the job interview, what makes you think you can wear it for the job?
  • cassie5962 Aug 8, 2007 @ 4:02 am | delete
    I've had my nose pierced for 6 weeks now, but I have a job interview coming up next week, so I don't think I'll be able to wear it for that. If I take it out for a couple of hours will the hole close up??
  • relache Jun 22, 2007 @ 11:09 am | delete
    Elizabeth, I sure don't. You're just going to have to keep looking. Most places would rather just convince you to buy a whole new piece of jewelry.
  • Elizabeth Jun 22, 2007 @ 3:44 am | delete
    I can find plenty of bioplast nose rings online, but I can't find any of the "replaceable" gems by themselves. Do you know of a website or store that sells the gems separately?
  • relache Jun 8, 2007 @ 10:21 am | delete
    Bernadette, a bead ring is fine for septums. Many people start out with one of those.
  • Bernadette Jun 7, 2007 @ 2:22 am | delete
    I've wanted to get a septum piercing for a while but the kind I want my nose to be pierced with is a bead ring. Do you think I can get my septum pierced with one of those? Or can my septum only be pierced with a 'U' ring and after it heals I change it to a bead ring?
  • relache Jun 7, 2007 @ 12:41 am | delete
    Kellye, it sounds like you have a nostril ring style piece of jewelry in there. You have to turn the jewelry as you remove it to get the fishtail shape to curl back out of your nose.
  • Kellye Jun 6, 2007 @ 4:43 pm | delete
    I'm trying to change my nse piercing for the first time. However, I have a stud with a U-shaped tail and have no clue how to get it all the way out. I can pull it out until the end starts to curve and then it's stuck. Any tips?
  • relache May 31, 2007 @ 8:03 pm | delete
    Brittany, nose piercings are usually about 18g-20g, much like regular ear piercings.
  • brittany May 31, 2007 @ 2:40 pm | delete
    whats the most commonly used gauge for new nose piercings?
  • relache May 20, 2007 @ 4:52 pm | delete
    Jessika, given that the end of the bone is thicker than the post, there's no way to pull a nose bone out without pulling that part through your nose, so whether you do it now or wait, it's probably going to hurt. I don't care for that style of jewelry for that very reason.
  • Jessika May 20, 2007 @ 4:14 pm | delete
    Ive had my nose peirced since 10th of March and I only recently changed it for the first time ive put in a bone style and i keep trying to take it out and it really hurts so I stop. Is it normal for ti to hurt? should I leave it for awhile or just go through the pain?
  • relache May 17, 2007 @ 2:52 pm | delete
    sara, if you've got a picture, then it clearly must exist. you may need to find a place that carries non-mass-manufactured jewelry, or a place that does custom work to get the piece you want.
  • sara May 17, 2007 @ 2:26 pm | delete
    where can i find a nose ring that is thick, lies flat on the outer nose, and curves around and back inside?? do these even exist?! i have a pic.
  • Kaylie May 16, 2007 @ 8:41 am | delete
    Thank you very much for the response! I really appreciate it. I didn't see it early and I sent an e-mail to you with the same question. Sorry about that. Anyway, thanks again! :)
  • relache May 15, 2007 @ 10:56 pm | delete
    Kaylie, if your nose isn't done healing, the end where the jewelry falls short could heal over. If you nose is healed, the jewelry still might fall or get pushed out from being too short.
  • Kaylie May 15, 2007 @ 10:51 pm | delete
    I changed my nose piercing for the first time tonite. It was a nose bone which hurt like heck. Anyway, I put in a new nose bone and I noticed that it's a little too short. I can barely see the ball at the end when I look at it from the inside of my nose. How bad of a situation is this?
  • relache May 9, 2007 @ 12:05 pm | delete
    All I can suggest is to try and find something with a strong setting, which will cost more than something just glued.
  • UberGoober May 8, 2007 @ 11:35 pm | delete
    I have searched for a small diamond (looking) it doesn't have to be real but either a nose screw or bone that will lay flat yet is not glued into the setting- I have lost numbers of the glued in ones- any ideas? One that I can wear 24/7- Thanks
  • relache May 7, 2007 @ 6:43 pm | delete
    danielle, one year is usually well-healed for most people, so you can give it a try. As with ears, if it makes the piercing red, tender or irritated, take it out and don't wear that metal.
  • relache May 7, 2007 @ 6:24 pm | delete
    Sam, it is ok to change jewelry if it means getting something that stays in place. Studs are often more discreet, but rings allow better access for cleaning, and they don't come out as easily. You might also try the stud style called a nostril screw.
  • relache May 7, 2007 @ 6:18 pm | delete
    monse, I've never researched if nose piercing would be a problem with a nose job, but I think that question would be asked specifically by the person with the nose job to their own plastic surgeon.
  • danielle May 7, 2007 @ 1:13 pm | delete
    ive had my nose pierced for over a year. is it safe to use sterling silver nose screws? or should i avoid them altogether?
  • Sam May 5, 2007 @ 7:40 pm | delete
    I just got my nose pierced about a week ago.

    I want to change the ring already because the post on this one is a little bit too short..It fell out once,
  • Lovey May 2, 2007 @ 6:48 am | delete
    Hey, I have had my lip pierced 4 times and my ears done 2 times each, have my knuckles tattoo'd and all that jazz. so i am no stranger to odd pain. I know everyone is different
  • monse May 1, 2007 @ 4:05 pm | delete
    hi, i want to get my nose pierced, but i heard that if you had a nose job you cant do it... is it true? or just a myth? thanx
  • relache Apr 27, 2007 @ 4:00 pm | delete
    danielle, you need to let your nose heal for at least 3 months before you try and change the jewelry. and with metal jewelry, you get what you pay for. if it was cheap, the metal is probably a nickel-based blend, which can tarnish or cause reactions.
  • danielle Apr 27, 2007 @ 3:54 pm | delete
    i bought some studs from claire's accessories, but i'm scared to put them in because i don't know what metal it is and i only had my nose pierced a month ago
  • relache Apr 15, 2007 @ 9:46 pm | delete
    Jackie, multiple re-piercing can increase the risk of scar tissue/keloids, can't say for sure how your nose will react. If you don't let the piercing heal fully (3 months or more) sometimes the piercing will close when the jewelry is taken out.
  • Jackie Apr 15, 2007 @ 9:37 pm | delete
    I've had my nose pierced 3 times. Twice on one side and once on the other. A couple weeks ago I wanted to change my stud and was unable to get the new one in, let alone the old one. I struggled for a couple hours and couldn't get them in so I had to let it grow in. I it stupid to get it a 4th time?
  • relache Apr 11, 2007 @ 12:12 am | delete
    Michelle - if the jewelry is too large for the hole in your nose, there is no way to put the jewelry in without it hurting. If you force it, not only will it hurt, it can tear the piercing, which can put you back to square one of healing. Get smaller jewelry.
  • Michelle Apr 10, 2007 @ 10:09 pm | delete
    I bought some new nose jewelry (like an anodized purple heart) and they are too big for the hole. How can I get them in without hurting my nose?
  • relache Mar 17, 2007 @ 7:08 pm | delete
    The problem with bone-style jewelry is pulling them out over that bead end is the only way to remove them. Try putting a dab of antibiotic ointment on the bead to act as lube. Also when you pull on the nose bone, try and pull it straight back out, not at an angle. good luck!
  • Rosetta Mar 17, 2007 @ 6:27 pm | delete
    How do I remove a nose bone (the straight post type of nose ring with the small bead on end)? When I try to pull it out, the bead on the inside of the nostril really hurts. Is there a way to relatively painlessly change out nose bone studs?

    Thanks for any insight on this!
  • relache Mar 16, 2007 @ 1:16 am | delete
    maddie, any body jewelry ring that is the right diameter and thickness to fit your nose comfortably will work. if it's just a captured bead ring, those are universal for ears, noses and lips.
  • maddie Mar 15, 2007 @ 11:14 pm | delete
    can i change my nose stud to a nose ring? my nose stud is a bit high so i cant find rings that are fit (they are too small) and are thin. are they out there? can i use other jewelery for my nose? (lip rings etc.)
  • relache Mar 6, 2007 @ 10:03 pm | delete
    Heather, if your nose is fully healed, you can try one of the nylon retainers shown on this lens, but in my experience, they are not really invisible. Anything you wear in the piercing will show somehow.
  • Heather Mar 6, 2007 @ 6:02 pm | delete
    Is there any type of invisible nose studs for like when i start work in the summer?? And do they really work where it looks like you don't have one?? Just for work

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relache

Rae is a writer-artist-alchemist who delights in finding the extraordinary in the everyday and then sharing those moments with her readers.

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