Nose Piercing Men

Nose Piercing Men: A Guide to Style and Safety

Nose Piercing Men: A Guide to Style and Safety. Nose piercing is not a new trend. It has been practiced for centuries by various cultures and religions around the world. However, in recent years, it has become more popular among men of different backgrounds and preferences. Whether you want to express your individuality, experiment with your appearance, or simply add some flair to your look, nose piercing can be a great option for you. But before you head to the nearest piercing studio, there are some things you need to know about nose piercing for men, such as the types, the pros and cons, the healing process, and the aftercare.

Types of Nose Piercings Men

There are several types of nose piercings men, each with its own style and appeal. Here are some of the most common ones:

Nostril piercing: This is the most basic and classic type of nose piercing, where a stud or a ring is inserted through the outer edge of the nostril. It can be done on either side of the nose, or both. Nostril piercing is versatile and easy to style, as you can choose from a variety of jewelry designs and sizes.

Septum piercing: This is the type of nose piercing where a ring or a barbell is inserted through the thin piece of cartilage that separates the nostrils. It is also known as the bull ring piercing, as it resembles the rings worn by bulls. Septum piercing is bold and edgy, and it can be easily hidden by flipping the jewelry inside the nose when needed.

Bridge piercing: This is the type of nose piercing where a barbell or a curved bar is inserted through the skin at the top of the nose bridge, between the eyes. It is also known as the earl piercing, after Earl van Aken, who popularized it in the 1990s. Bridge piercing is unique and eye-catching, but it can also be prone to migration and rejection due to the lack of cartilage support.

Nasallang piercing: This is the type of nose piercing where a long barbell is inserted horizontally through both nostrils and the septum, creating a symmetrical look. It is also known as the three-in-one piercing, as it combines three piercings in one. Nasallang piercing is rare and extreme, and it requires a high pain tolerance and a skilled piercer.

Pros and Cons of Nose Piercings Men

Like any other form of body modification, nose piercings men have their advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of them:

Pros

Nose piercings can enhance your facial features and complement your style.
Nose piercings can show your personality and creativity.
Nose piercings can make you stand out from the crowd and attract attention.
Nose piercings can be a form of self-expression and empowerment.
Nose piercings can be easily changed or removed if you get bored or want a different look.

Cons

Nose piercings can be painful and uncomfortable during and after the procedure.
Nose piercings can take a long time to heal and require proper care and hygiene.
Nose piercings can cause infections, allergies, scarring, bleeding, swelling, or rejection if not done or maintained properly.
Nose piercings can interfere with your breathing, smelling, or sneezing functions.
Nose piercings can be frowned upon by some employers, family members, or society in general.

Healing Process and Aftercare for Nose Piercings

The healing process for nose piercings varies depending on the type of piercing, your body's response, and how well you take care of it. Generally speaking, nostril piercings take about 2 to 4 months to heal completely, while septum piercings take about 6 to 8 weeks. Bridge piercings and nasallang piercings can take longer, up to 6 months or more.

To ensure a smooth and safe healing process for your nose piercing, you need to follow some basic aftercare guidelines:

Clean your piercing twice a day with a sterile saline solution or an antibacterial soap. Avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh chemicals that can irritate or dry out your skin.

Gently rotate your jewelry when cleaning to prevent it from sticking to your skin. Do not touch your piercing with dirty hands or objects that can introduce bacteria or dirt into your

Choosing the Right Jewelry for Your Nose Piercing

Once you have decided what type of nose piercing you want, you need to choose the right jewelry for it. There are many factors to consider when picking your nose jewelry, such as the material, the size, the shape, and the style.

Material

The material of your nose jewelry is important for your health and comfort. You want to avoid any metals that can cause allergic reactions, infections, or irritation. The best materials for nose jewelry are:

Titanium: This is the most recommended material for nose jewelry, as it is hypoallergenic, lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant. It also comes in various colors and finishes.

Gold: This is another popular material for nose jewelry, as it is elegant, shiny, and resistant to tarnish. However, you need to make sure that the gold is at least 14k or higher, and that it does not contain any nickel or other alloys that can cause allergies.

Silver: This is a cheaper alternative to gold, but it can also be stylish and versatile. However, silver can oxidize and turn black over time, and it can also cause discoloration or infection if it comes into contact with body fluids.

Stainless steel: This is a common material for nose jewelry, as it is strong, affordable, and easy to clean. However, some people may be allergic to nickel or other metals that are mixed with stainless steel, so you need to check the grade and quality of the steel before buying.

Size

The size of your nose jewelry refers to the thickness (gauge) and the diameter (length) of the piece. The size of your nose jewelry should match the size of your piercing hole, as well as your anatomy and preference. The standard sizes for nose jewelry are:

Gauge: This is the thickness of the jewelry that goes through your piercing hole. The smaller the number, the thicker the jewelry. The typical gauges for nose jewelry are 20g (0.8mm), 18g (1mm), and 16g (1.2mm). You should not go below 20g or above 14g for nose piercings, as they can cause damage or rejection.

Diameter: This is the length of the jewelry that goes around your nose. The smaller the number, the tighter the fit. The typical diameters for nose jewelry are 6mm (1/4 inch), 8mm (5/16 inch), and 10mm (3/8 inch). You should choose a diameter that suits your nose shape and size, as well as your comfort level.

Shape

The shape of your nose jewelry refers to the design and style of the piece. There are many shapes to choose from, depending on your type of piercing and preference. Some of the common shapes for nose jewelry are:

Stud: This is a simple and discreet shape that consists of a straight post with a ball or a gem on one end and a flat or bent end on the other. It can be worn on nostril piercings or bridge piercings.

Ring: This is a circular shape that can be open or closed. It can be worn on nostril piercings or septum piercings. Rings can have different styles, such as seamless rings, captive bead rings, segment rings, or clicker rings.

Barbell: This is a straight shape that has a ball or a gem on both ends. It can be worn on septum piercings or bridge piercings. Barbell can have different styles, such as straight barbells, curved barbells, circular barbells, or horseshoe barbells.

Spiral: This is a twisted shape that resembles a corkscrew. It can be worn on nostril piercings or septum piercings. Spiral can have different styles, such as single spiral or double spiral.

Style

The style of your nose jewelry refers to the appearance and aesthetic of the piece. There are many styles to choose from, depending on your personality and taste. Some of the popular styles for nose jewelry are:

Classic: This is a simple and elegant style that features plain or minimalistic designs, such as solid colors, smooth finishes, or small gems.

Tribal: This is an exotic and edgy style that features intricate or geometric designs inspired by various cultures and traditions around the world.

Source:
(1) Piercings for Men Guide: 11 Tips for a Great-Looking Piercing - GQ.
(2) The Ultimate Byrdie Boy Guide To Piercings for Men.
(3) Nose Piercings For Guys – Yes or No in 2023? – OnPointFresh. https://onpointfresh.com/nose-piercings-for-men/.