Nose Pierce Studs Vs. Rings
If you are considering a nose piercing, you will need to decide on the type of jewelry you want to wear. The two most common types of jewelry for nostril piercings are captive bead rings and nostril screws. For piercings that go through the middle of the nose, or the septum, the most common jewelry is a ring or circular barbell. Does this Spark an idea?
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Nostril Screws
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A nostril screw looks like a stud on the outside of the nose, but very different from a stud on the inside. Nostril screws arrive at your piercer's shop as straight 18-gauge wires with a blunt end, and the piercer bends the wire to fit your nose. Those who prefer a small bead or gem that sits close to the face should choose a nostril screw as their nose-piercing jewelry. The most common material for nostril screws is surgical stainless steel. While nostril screws are less likely to be bumped around than rings, they can come out inadvertenly.
Captive Bead Rings
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A captive bead ring is shaped like a C, with a bead that pops into place between its two ends. The tension of the ring and indentations in the bead hold the bead in place. Like nostril screws, the most common material for captive bead rings is surgical stainless steel, although titanium and niobium versions are also available for those who prefer black or color anodized metal. Captive bead rings are less likely to come out while you sleep, which makes them a better initial jewelry choice if you move a lot or touch your face in the night.
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Septum Piercings
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A septum piercing goes through the area just below the cartilage at the middle of your nose. Studs cannot be worn in septum piercings, but captive bead rings and circular barbells can. Another option for septum jewelry is a seamless ring, also called a segment ring. Seamless rings work the same way as captive bead rings, except instead of a bead, they have a removable segment that looks like part of the ring. The segment, unlike a bead, can move freely through the piercing.
Gun Piercing Jewelry
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Studs from an ear piercing gun are unacceptable for use on any part of the body other than the earlobes. Guns should never be used to pierce any part of the body, including the ears, since they cannot be sterilized in an autoclave. They are particularly dangerous for cartilage piercings like nostrils, as infection spreads rapidly through cartilage. Ear piercing studs are too short for nostril piercings, which can cause them to embed in the cartilage. If a piercer suggests piercing your nose with a gun, leave immediately. Find a piercer certified by the Association of Professional Piercers, who can advise you on the proper jewelry for your anatomy and pierce you with sterile tools.
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