Are you considering getting a smiley or septum piercing but unsure about the jewelry options? One question that often arises is whether septum jewelry can be used in a smiley piercing. In this article, we will explore the compatibility of septum jewelry with smiley piercings, the differences between the two types of jewelry, suitable jewelry materials, and the best jewelry for smiley piercing.
Smiley piercing jewelry and septum piercing jewelry are not interchangeable. Although they may appear similar, they are designed for different types of piercings. The smiley piercing, also known as the frenulum piercing, is a type of lip piercing located on the inside of the upper lip, while the septum piercing is located in the center of the nose.
Choosing the Right Jewelry and Materials for Your Smiley and Septum Piercings

Compatibility of Septum Jewelry with Smiley Piercing
The answer is no; you cannot use septum jewelry in a smiley piercing. The diameter and shape of septum jewelry are not suitable for a smiley piercing. Smiley piercings are shallow and have a small gauge, usually 16 or 18, while septum piercings are deeper and require a larger gauge, usually 14 or 12. Septum jewelry is thicker and larger, making it incompatible with smiley piercings.
Best Jewelry for Smiley Piercing
The best jewelry for smiley piercings is circular barbells or horseshoe rings. These types of jewelry are curved and have a smaller diameter, making them suitable for smiley piercings. The circular shape of the jewelry also helps prevent irritation and discomfort, as it moves with the movement of the lip. Other suitable jewelry options for smiley piercings include captive bead rings and curved barbells.
Septum Rings and Smiley Piercings
Septum rings and smiley piercings may look similar, but they are not interchangeable. Septum rings are thicker and have a larger diameter than smiley-piercing jewelry. Septum rings are designed to fit the shape of the nose, while smiley piercing jewelry is designed to fit the curve of the upper lip. Attempting to use septum rings in a smiley piercing can cause discomfort, irritation, and damage to the piercing.
Differences Between Septum and Smiley Piercing Jewelry
The main difference between septum and smiley-piercing jewelry is the diameter and thickness of the jewelry. Septum jewelry is thicker and has a larger diameter than smiley-piercing jewelry. Septum jewelry is also typically made of titanium or surgical steel, while smiley piercing jewelry is often made of flexible materials like silicone or PTFE.
Jewelry Materials Suitable for Smiley and Septum Piercings
When it comes to choosing jewelry for your smiley or septum piercing, it is essential to choose materials that are safe for your skin and piercing. Some suitable materials for smiley piercing jewelry include implant-grade titanium, surgical steel, gold, and silicone. Materials such as titanium, surgical steel, and niobium are safe and recommended for septum-piercing jewelry.
Can You Put a Nose Ring in Your Smiley?
The smiley piercing is located inside the upper lip, while nose rings are designed for the nostrils. While it may be tempting to try and use a nose ring in your smiley piercing, it is not recommended. Nose rings are typically designed with a smaller diameter than smiley-piercing jewelry, which can cause discomfort and even damage to your teeth if not properly sized.

Choosing jewelry specifically designed for your smiley piercing, such as circular barbells or horseshoe rings, is important. These types of jewelry are made to fit the curvature of the lip and have a smaller diameter, which reduces the risk of damage to your teeth and gums. Additionally, it’s important to choose jewelry made of suitable materials, such as implant-grade titanium or surgical steel, to avoid irritation and promote healing.
While it may be tempting to try and use other types of jewelry in your smiley piercing, it’s always best to stick with options that are designed for this specific type of piercing. If you’re unsure about which type of jewelry is best for your smiley piercing, it’s always best to consult with a professional piercer for advice and guidance.
What Size Ring Do You Need for a Smiley Piercing?
If you’re wondering what size ring you need for your smiley piercing, the answer depends on your anatomy. While most smileys are either a 16 or 18-gauge in thickness, the diameter can vary significantly. Generally, the diameter of a smiley piercing ranges from 6mm to 10mm.
It’s important to note that you should never attempt to guess the size of your smiley-piercing jewelry. While a piece of jewelry may fit, it may not be the right size for your anatomy and could cause damage to your teeth or gums. It’s always best to consult with a professional piercer to determine the correct gauge and size for your smiley piercing jewelry.
When you visit a piercer, they will be able to assess the size of your smiley piercing and recommend jewelry that fits properly and is safe for your teeth and gums. They can also help you choose jewelry made from safe and suitable materials for your skin and piercing. Choosing the right size and type of jewelry for your smiley piercing ensures that your piercing stays healthy and comfortable.
FAQs
Q: Can you use septum jewelry in a smiley piercing?
Ans: Septum jewelry is not compatible with smiley piercings due to its diameter and thickness.
Q: What is the best jewelry for a smiley piercing?
Ans: Circular barbells and horseshoe rings are the best jewelry options for smiley piercings.
Q: What is the difference between the septum and smiley piercing jewelry?
Ans: The main difference is the diameter and thickness of the jewelry.
Q: What materials are suitable for smiley and septum piercings?
Ans: Suitable materials include implant-grade titanium, surgical steel, gold, and silicone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to understand that septum jewelry is incompatible with smiley piercings. The differences between the two types of jewelry, including their diameter and thickness, make them unsuitable for each other. When choosing jewelry for your smiley piercing, circular barbells and horseshoe rings are the best options. These types of jewelry are designed to fit the curve of the lip and have a smaller diameter, making them comfortable and safe for piercing.
Choosing jewelry made of safe and suitable materials for your skin and piercing is also important. Implant-grade titanium, surgical steel, gold, and silicone are some of the suitable materials for smiley-piercing jewelry. For septum-piercing jewelry, materials such as titanium, surgical steel, and niobium are safe and recommended.
In summary, while septum and smiley piercing jewelry may look similar, they are designed for different types of piercings and are not interchangeable. Choosing the right jewelry and materials for your piercing is essential for the health and safety of your piercing. If you have any concerns or questions about your piercing, it is always best to consult with a professional piercer for advice and guidance.