Nose Piercing Guide UK

Nose Piercing: Your Complete UK Guide to Style, Healing and Aftercare

Nose piercings are one of the most enduring and versatile forms of facial jewellery, with a cultural history stretching back centuries and a modern appeal that suits all styles. Whether you’re looking for a subtle sparkle on your nostril or a bold septum ring, nose piercings offer endless opportunities for self-expression. They’re a popular first facial piercing due to their simplicity, but there’s still plenty to understand before getting one—from choosing placement and jewellery to navigating healing and aftercare.

This guide covers everything you need to know about nose piercings in the UK, whether you’re thinking of getting your first one or adding to an existing look.

What Is a Nose Piercing?

A nose piercing typically refers to a piercing through the cartilage of the nose, most commonly the nostril or the septum. Nostril piercings are the most popular, sitting on either side of the fleshy part of the nose and accommodating small studs, hoops or rings. Septum piercings pass through the thin strip of tissue between the nostrils—often called the “sweet spot”—and are ideal for circular barbells and segment rings.

There are also less common styles such as the high nostril (placed further up the bridge), the nasallang (a piercing that goes through both nostrils and the septum in one straight bar), and the bridge piercing (through the skin at the top of the nose). Each has its own charm and healing needs, but nostril and septum remain the most widely chosen.

The Piercing Process: What to Expect

Once you’ve chosen your piercing type and jewellery, your piercer will start by cleaning the area thoroughly. For a nostril piercing, the piercer will mark the entry point, and you’ll have a chance to check the placement. After that, a sterile needle is used to make a quick, clean hole through the nostril, followed by the insertion of your chosen jewellery.

A septum piercing requires a little more precision. The piercer will locate the sweet spot between the cartilage and the bottom of the nose and pass a needle through it horizontally. This process may feel more intense, but it’s relatively straightforward when done by an experienced professional.

Piercing guns should never be used on the nose, as they can shatter cartilage and cause unnecessary trauma. A professional UK studio will always use single-use, sterilised needles and provide a calm, safe environment to guide you through the experience.

How Much Does a Nose Piercing Hurt?

Pain levels depend on the placement. A nostril piercing usually feels like a sharp pinch followed by watery eyes—it’s quick and over in seconds. A septum piercing can feel more intense due to the tissue involved but is still very manageable. The moment of piercing might be uncomfortable, but the sensation fades fast, replaced by a dull ache or light pressure for the next day or two.

Because the nose is so central and expressive—think sneezing, wiping your nose, or putting on glasses—be prepared for occasional twinges during healing. But with good care, most people find nose piercings easy to live with.

Healing Time and What’s Normal

A nostril piercing typically takes around three to six months to heal fully. A septum piercing, thanks to its placement through softer tissue, may heal slightly quicker—around two to three months on average.

In the early days, it’s normal to see some redness, swelling and light crusting. Avoid changing the jewellery until a professional confirms the piercing is fully healed, as premature switching can irritate the tissue and prolong the process.

Healing can be affected by allergies, weather, stress and general health, so listen to your body and take your time. Just because a piercing looks healed doesn’t mean it’s ready for change—internal healing takes much longer.

Aftercare for Nose Piercings

The golden rule of aftercare is gentle consistency. Clean the area twice daily using a sterile saline solution or piercing aftercare spray. Simply soak a clean piece of gauze or a non-woven pad in the solution and hold it to the area for a minute or so. Gently pat dry with kitchen roll or let it air dry. Avoid using cotton wool or buds, as fibres can get caught on the jewellery.

Do not twist or rotate the jewellery. This used to be common advice but is now discouraged, as it can tear the healing tissue and introduce bacteria. Avoid harsh cleansers like alcohol or peroxide, and steer clear of makeup or skincare products near the piercing.

If you wear glasses, take care not to let them press on or irritate the area, especially with a bridge or septum piercing. And avoid swimming or soaking the piercing in bodies of water for at least the first few weeks.

Cost of Nose Piercings in the UK

Prices vary depending on the studio, jewellery and piercing type. You can expect to pay:

• £25 to £45 for a standard nostril piercing

• £35 to £60 for a septum piercing

This usually includes the piercing procedure, starter jewellery and a basic aftercare pack. Studios offering solid gold or high-end titanium jewellery may charge more. Always choose quality jewellery—especially for sensitive areas like the nose—to avoid irritation or allergic reactions.

Risks and What to Watch Out For

Most nose piercings heal smoothly, but there are some risks. Infection is the most common, often caused by poor hygiene or touching the piercing with unclean hands. Look out for excessive swelling, redness, warmth or pus-like discharge—if symptoms worsen, consult your piercer or GP.

Nostril piercings can develop bumps or raised areas if they’re knocked, over-cleaned or irritated. These are usually hypertrophic scars rather than keloids and often settle with proper care. Septum piercings can sometimes result in crooked placement if not done correctly, which is why it’s so important to choose a professional with experience.

Migration and rejection are rare with nostril piercings but can occur if the body pushes out the jewellery. If you notice a significant change in the angle or depth of the piercing, return to the studio for advice.

Is a Nose Piercing Right for You?

Nose piercings suit a wide range of face shapes, styles and personalities. They’re expressive but easy to maintain and offer endless options for customisation. If you work in a conservative environment, septum piercings offer the benefit of being easily hidden with a retainer.

You should avoid piercing the nose during times of illness or when your immune system is run down. Those with chronic sinus issues, nasal surgery history or allergies should discuss their concerns with a piercer before proceeding.

The nose can also be sensitive to certain materials. If you have known metal allergies, always request implant-grade titanium or 14K+ gold jewellery. Nickel-free options are widely available in reputable UK studios.

Studio Standards and What to Look For

A high-quality piercing studio in the UK will be council-licensed and follow strict hygiene regulations. The piercer should use sterile, single-use needles and wear gloves throughout the procedure. They should offer a consultation before the piercing and give you detailed aftercare advice afterwards.

Jewellery should always come from a sterile pack and be made from materials suitable for long-term wear. The studio should be clean, well-organised and open to questions—if you feel unsure or rushed, trust your gut and walk away.

FAQs and Misconceptions

One common misconception is that you must start with a hoop. In truth, many piercers recommend beginning with a labret-style stud, especially for nostril piercings, as it moves less and supports better healing.

Another popular question is, “Can I wear makeup around my new nose piercing?” It’s best to avoid cosmetics near the area until the piercing has healed, as makeup can introduce bacteria or clog the hole.

And no, blowing your nose doesn’t “ruin” the piercing—but it might feel uncomfortable in the early days. Be gentle and always wash your hands first.

As for the myth that septum piercings hurt “more than anything,” it’s mostly hype. While it’s a pinchier procedure than some, it’s quick and totally tolerable with an experienced hand.

Final Thoughts

Nose piercings are a timeless and expressive way to enhance your look—whether you’re going for something minimal or making a bold statement. With the right studio, high-quality jewellery and a bit of patience during the healing process, your nose piercing can become a defining part of your personal style. Always take the time to research your piercer, understand the healing journey and follow aftercare advice closely. A beautiful result starts with a safe and informed decision.