If you’re considering getting a new piercing, one style you might be interested in is the bridge piercing. A bridge piercing, also known as an Erl or a third eye piercing, is a unique and bold piercing that is becoming increasingly popular. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about bridge piercings, from the procedure to aftercare and everything in between.
What is a Bridge Piercing?
A bridge piercing is a type of facial piercing that sits horizontally between the eyes, right at the bridge of the nose. The piercing typically goes through the thin piece of skin between the eyebrows, and it can be adorned with a variety of different types of jewelry, such as barbells, curved barbells, or captive bead rings.
The procedure of Getting a Bridge Piercing
If you’re interested in getting a bridge piercing, going to a reputable piercing studio is important. A professional piercer will first clean the area around your nose and then mark the spot where the piercing will go. They’ll then use a hollow needle to create a hole in the skin and insert the jewelry.
The piercing process itself typically takes only a few minutes, but it can be quite painful, especially because the piercing goes through a susceptible area of the face. Some people report that the piercing feels like a sharp pinch or sting, while others describe it as a burning sensation.
Aftercare for a Bridge Piercing
Once you’ve gotten your bridge piercing, it’s important to take good care of it to ensure it heals properly. Your piercer will likely give you specific aftercare instructions, but here are some general tips to keep in mind:
- Clean the piercing twice a day with a saline solution or a specialized piercing aftercare solution.
- Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands, and don’t twist or turn the jewelry.
- Avoid swimming or soaking the piercing in water until it’s fully healed.
- Be careful when brushing your hair or putting on clothing to avoid catching the jewelry.
It’s important to be patient during the healing process, which can take six to twelve weeks. During this time, it’s normal to experience some swelling, redness, and tenderness around the piercing site.
Bridge piercing healing process
Bridge piercings are a unique form of body modification that is becoming increasingly popular in the body jewelry community. Unlike other nose piercings, bridge piercings only pass through a small bit of skin between the eyes, making them much less invasive than other types of nose piercings. As such, they typically heal faster and with fewer complications due to the minimal amount of tissue being pierced. The healing process for bridge piercings usually takes around 3-4 months to complete; however, this can vary depending on individual aftercare practices.
The key to any successful piercing is proper aftercare and it’s no different when it comes to bridge piercings. Cleaning your piercing daily with saline solution or sea salt will help keep it free from infection and reduce swelling and discomfort associated with healing.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any piercing, there are some risks and potential complications associated with getting a bridge piercing. These can include:
Infection:
If the piercing isn’t properly cared for, it can become infected. Signs of infection can include redness, swelling, discharge, and a fever. If you suspect your piercing is infected, it’s important to see a doctor immediately.
Rejection:
Because the skin at the bridge of the nose is thin, there’s a higher risk of the body rejecting the piercing. Signs of rejection can include the jewelry migrating or the hole becoming larger over time.
Scarring:
In some cases, a bridge piercing can leave behind a scar. This is more likely if the piercing was not done properly or if it becomes infected.
If you experience any of these complications, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is important.
Choosing the Right Jewelry
Once your bridge piercing has healed, you can start having fun with different jewelry types. Many different styles of jewelry can be worn in a bridge piercing, including barbells, curved barbells, and captive bead rings. You can also choose from different materials, such as surgical steel, titanium, gold, or even glass.
It’s important to choose high-quality jewelry specifically designed for piercings to avoid any potential problems or complications. Your piercer should be able to help you choose the right jewelry for your individual needs and preferences.
Bridge piercing pain level
When it comes to bridge piercings, many people fear the pain that may come with it. But the truth is, a bridge piercing doesn’t hurt as much as you might think. In fact, most people find that the pain level is surprisingly low.
The needle used for a bridge piercing passes through a thin layer of flesh on top of your nose, and when done by an experienced professional piercer, there won’t be any major discomfort. The sensation you feel is similar to getting your ears pierced—just a pinch and then some pressure while the jewelry is being inserted into place. Plus, with proper aftercare, you can reduce any swelling or irritation that may occur right after the procedure.
Overall, a bridge piercing isn’t too painful if done correctly; many people even find it enjoyable!
Bridge piercing infection symptoms
Are you considering a bridge piercing but worried about the potential for infection? It’s understandable – any piercing can potentially cause an infection if proper care isn’t taken. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a bridge-piercing infection can help you take action quickly in order to get it treated.
If your bridge piercing is infected, one of the most common symptoms will be inflammation and redness around the pierced area. The skin may also become hot to the touch, tender and swollen. In more severe cases, the area around the wound may even become dark in color or discolored due to extra blood flow caused by inflammation. In addition, discharge from the pierced site may occur as well as pain when touching or moving near it.
Bridge piercing pros and cons
Like any other piercing, bridge piercing has its own pros and cons. Here are some of the most important ones to consider:
Pros:
- Unique and eye-catching: Bridge piercings are a unique and eye-catching piercing that can be a great way to express your individuality and stand out from the crowd.
- Easy to hide: If you need to conceal your piercing for work or other situations, a bridge piercing can be easily hidden by wearing your hair down or by covering it with a hat or headband.
- Versatile: Bridge piercings can be worn with a variety of different jewelry styles, from simple studs to more elaborate pieces, allowing you to change up your look whenever you want.
Cons:
- Painful: Bridge piercings are considered to be one of the more painful piercings due to the sensitive area of the face where they are located.
- Long healing time: Bridge piercings can take longer to heal than other piercings, often taking between six to twelve weeks, during which time you need to take extra care of the piercing to avoid complications.
- Potential for complications: Like all piercings, there is a risk of infection, rejection, or migration, and if the jewelry is placed too close to the eyes, there is a risk of vision problems.
- Limited aftercare: Due to the location of the piercing, it can be difficult to clean the area properly, which can lead to complications.
Recommended Article: The Truth About Piercing Guns: Why You Should Avoid Them
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about bridge piercings:
How long does it take for a bridge piercings to heal?
The healing time for a bridge piercing can vary, but it usually takes anywhere from six to twelve weeks for the piercing to heal fully.
Does getting a bridge piercing hurt?
Yes, getting a bridge piercing can be quite painful, especially because the piercing goes through a sensitive area of the face. However, the pain is typically only temporary.
Can I wear glasses with a bridge piercing?
Yes, you can wear glasses with a bridge piercing, but it may initially be uncomfortable. It’s important to be careful when putting on and taking off your glasses to avoid catching the jewelry.
Can I change the jewelry in my bridge piercing?
Once your piercing has fully healed, you can change the jewelry. However, it’s important to choose high-quality jewelry that is specifically designed for piercings to avoid any potential problems or complications.
Can a bridge piercing cause vision problems?
There is a very small risk that a bridge piercing could cause vision problems if the jewelry is placed too close to the eyes. It’s important to go to a professional piercer who knows how to place the jewelry properly.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a bold and unique piercing, a bridge piercing might be right for you. Just remember to go to a reputable piercing studio, take good care of your piercing during the healing process, and choose high-quality jewelry to avoid any potential problems or complications. With proper care, a bridge piercing can be a great addition to your personal style.
