How to Replace a Nose Ring
Once you've had your nose pierced for awhile, the novelty of the nose ring style may start to wear off and prompt your desire to replace the ring with a new one. You should not replace your nose ring for at least six weeks because it needs time to heal properly, states the Association of Professional Piercers. The nose rings professionals use have a curved bottom and are bent to stick out slightly away from your nose to account for any swelling. The bottom curve can make removing it a bit difficult, but the correct technique will ensure you can replace the ring safely. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Wash your hands with antibacterial hand soap and warm water to prevent getting any bacteria into your piercing when you replace the ring. Dry your hands thoroughly.
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Wet a washcloth with warm water. Press the warm washcloth against your nose piercing for at least one minute or so--the heat may help loosen the area on your nose directly surrounding the ring and make it easier to maneuver.
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3
Reach into your nostril and grip the bottom of the nose ring. Twist the ring gently so the curved part is visible and sticks out of your nostril.
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4
Grab the top portion of your nose ring and gently twist it in one direction to determine if it starts to give and move. If it doesn't move at all, twist it in the opposite direction.
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Pull the nose ring gently as you slowly twist it, until it slides out of your piercing hole. Handle the nose ring as gently as possible to prevent injuring your nostril.
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Coat your replacement nose ring with a very thin layer of a water-based personal lubricant so it doesn't get caught in the hole. Insert the bottom of the nose ring into the hole and twist it gently as you push it in. Turn the ring once it's in your nostril to reposition the bottom curve so it doesn't stick out of your nostril.
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Tips & Warnings
If you're having a difficult time putting in a new nose ring, take a break and reinsert your original one--leaving your piercing without jewelry for an extended period of time could make it close up, even within minutes for some people, according to the Association of Professional Piercers.
In your spare time, practice repositioning your nose ring by touch rather than by sight to make it easier in the long run.
Never take out a nose ring on your own before your nose heals--if you must (such as for medical or professional reasons), always consult a professional piercer to safely remove it before the piercing heals.
Never use earrings or other jewelry with a removable back into your nostril. It could cause severe irritation.
