Septum piercing is a popular type of piercing that involves perforating the thin piece of skin between the nostrils. It has been around for centuries and is still gaining popularity among fashion enthusiasts. If you are considering getting a septum or just curious about it, this article will provide you with everything you need to know about it.
This article will discuss the history of septum-piercing, the process of getting one, the aftercare procedures, the healing process, and the risks associated with piercing. We will also answer some frequently asked questions.
History of Septum Piercing
Septum-piercing has been around for centuries and is not a new trend. In fact, it has been practiced by different cultures worldwide, including the Aztecs, Mayans, and Native Americans. It was often seen as a sign of courage, beauty, and strength. The Aztecs, for example, believed that the nose was a gateway to the soul and would allow the gods to see into the wearer’s soul.
|Today, septum-piercing is a popular form of body modification and self-expression. It is often seen as a symbol of individuality and is embraced by many cultures and subcultures worldwide.
Process of Getting a Septum Piercing
Getting a septum is a simple and quick process, but it requires proper preparation and care to ensure the piercing heals properly. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting a septum piercing:
Step 1: Choose a reputable piercer. Look for a piercer who is experienced, knowledgeable, and licensed. Check their portfolio and reviews to ensure that they have a good reputation.
Step 2: Prepare for the piercing. Ensure you are healthy and not under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Avoid taking blood-thinning medications before the piercing.
Step 3: Choose the jewelry. Your piercer will help you choose the right jewelry for your piercing. This can be done with different types of jewelry, including captive bead rings, horseshoe barbells, and septum clickers.
Step 4: Clean the piercing area. The piercer will clean the area around your septum with an antiseptic solution to reduce the risk of infection.
Step 5: Mark the piercing location. The piercer will mark the location of the piercing with a pen or marker to ensure that it is centered and straight.
Step 6: Pierce the septum. The piercer will use a hollow needle to pierce the thin skin between the nostrils. You may feel discomfort or pain during the piercing, but it is usually brief.
Step 7: Insert the jewelry. Once the piercing is done, the piercer will insert the jewelry through the hole and secure it.
Aftercare Procedures for Septum Piercing
Aftercare is essential to ensure that your septum-piercing heals properly and without complications. Here are some aftercare procedures that you should follow:
Clean the piercing twice a day:
Use a saline solution or mild soap and warm water to clean the piercing twice a day. Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel.
Avoid touching the piercing:
Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands or objects to prevent infection.
Avoid swimming and hot tubs:
Avoid swimming and hot tubs for at least four weeks after the piercing to prevent infection.
Avoid makeup and perfume:
Avoid applying makeup, perfume, and other cosmetics near the piercing to prevent irritation.
Healing Process for Septum Piercing
It takes about 6-8 weeks to heal fully, although it may take longer for some people. The healing process can be divided into three stages:
Stage 1: Inflammation and swelling.
The first stage starts immediately after the piercing and can last for a few days. You may experience swelling, redness, and tenderness around the piercing area. You may also experience some bleeding and discharge, which is normal. It is essential to keep the piercing clean during this stage to prevent infection.
Stage 2: Granulation tissue formation.
During this stage, the body starts to produce granulation tissue, which is a normal part of the healing process. The tissue may look like a small bump around the piercing. It is essential to avoid touching or picking at the tissue to prevent infection. The tissue will eventually disappear as the piercing heals.
Stage 3: Epithelialization.
This is the final stage of the healing process. The tissue around the piercing will start to close up, and the piercing will start to look and feel normal again. The piercing may still be sensitive during this stage, but it should no longer be painful.
Risks Associated with Septum Piercing
Septum, like any other type of piercing, carries some risks. Here are some of the risks associated with this:
Infection: This can get infected if not properly cleaned and taken care of. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, and discharge from the piercing area.
Nerve damage: It can cause nerve damage if the needle hits a nerve. This can result in pain, numbness, or a tingling sensation in the nose.
Bleeding: I can cause bleeding during and after the piercing. If the bleeding persists, it is essential to seek medical attention.
Keloid formation: Some people are prone to keloid formation, which is an overgrowth of scar tissue around the piercing. Keloids can be unsightly and may require medical treatment to remove.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does septum piercing hurt?
A: The pain level varies from person to person, but most people describe it as a sharp pinch.
Q: How long does septum piercing take to heal?
A: It takes about 6-8 weeks to heal fully, although it may take longer for some people.
Can I flip up my septum piercing for work or school?
You can flip up your septum-piercing to hide it for work or school. However, you should wait until the piercing has fully healed before flipping it up or down.
Can I change my septum jewelry during the healing process?
It is not recommended to change your septum jewelry during the healing process. You should wait until the piercing has fully healed before changing your jewelry.
Can I blow my nose with a septum piercing?
You should avoid blowing your nose too hard or too often during healing. If you need to blow your nose, do it gently and avoid putting pressure on the piercing.
Conclusion
This is a popular form of body modification and self-expression that has been around for centuries. Getting a septum-piercing requires proper preparation, aftercare, and care during the healing process to ensure that it heals correctly and without complications. While some risks are associated with this, they can be minimized with proper care and attention. If you are considering getting a piercing, choose a reputable piercer and follow the aftercare procedures to ensure a successful healing process.
