Guide To Septum Piercing Jewelry
Hey guys, let's dive deep into the awesome world of septum piercing jewelry! If you're thinking about getting your septum pierced, or just want to jazz up your current one, you've come to the right place. We're going to cover everything from the different types of jewelry you can rock to how to keep your new bling looking its best. Septum piercings are super popular right now, and for good reason! They can totally transform your look, adding a touch of edge, elegance, or even a bit of playful charm, depending on the style you choose. But with so many options out there, how do you know what's going to work for you and your new piercing? Don't sweat it, we've got your back! We'll break down the lingo, explain the materials, and give you the lowdown on how to pick the perfect piece that screams you. Whether you're a newbie looking for your first horseshoe or a seasoned piercing enthusiast wanting to explore more complex designs, this guide is packed with all the intel you need. So, grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let's get this piercing party started! Understanding your options is key to a happy and healthy piercing, and of course, a super stylish one!
Understanding Septum Jewelry Materials: What's Best for Your Bling?
Alright, let's talk about what your shiny new septum piercing jewelry is actually made of, because this is super important, guys. When you're choosing jewelry, especially for a fresh piercing, the material is key to healing and preventing any nasty reactions. The golden standard, the absolute best bet for initial piercings, is usually implant-grade titanium. Why titanium, you ask? Well, it's incredibly lightweight, which means less stress on your piercing. It's also hypoallergenic, meaning it's super unlikely to cause any allergic reactions, which is a big win for sensitive skin. Plus, it's super durable and doesn't tarnish, so your jewelry will stay looking its best for ages. Next up, we have 14k or 18k solid gold. Now, this is a premium choice, and for good reason. Solid gold, especially in these karats, is also hypoallergenic and biocompatible. It's gorgeous, it's luxurious, and it feels amazing. Just make sure it's solid gold and not gold-plated, as the plating can wear off and cause irritation. Sometimes, you might see niobium recommended. It's similar to titanium in that it's hypoallergenic and a great option for sensitive folks. It's also a bit more flexible than titanium, which can be nice. Now, what about materials you should avoid, especially for a new piercing? Surgical stainless steel is a common choice, and for healed piercings, it can be totally fine. However, it often contains nickel, which is a common allergen. So, for that initial healing period, it's best to steer clear. Also, sterling silver is a definite no-go for new piercings. It tarnishes easily and can react with bodily fluids, leading to irritation and discoloration. And definitely, definitely avoid any cheap, mystery metals or costume jewelry for your initial piercing. Stick to the high-quality stuff β your nose will thank you! Remember, investing in good quality jewelry from the get-go can save you a lot of pain and potential problems down the line. So, when in doubt, always ask your piercer what materials they recommend for your specific needs and for the initial healing phase of your septum piercing jewelry.
Exploring Different Styles of Septum Jewelry: From Hoops to Pins!
Now for the fun part, guys β checking out all the fabulous styles of septum piercing jewelry you can get your hands on! Your septum piercing is a prime spot for some serious style expression, and the variety out there is mind-blowing. Let's start with the classic: the hoop. Hoops come in all sorts of diameters, from snug little huggies that hug your septum closely to larger, statement pieces that really draw attention. Within the hoop category, you've got a few sub-styles. The captive bead ring (CBR) is super popular. It's a ring where a ball or a gem is held in place by the tension of the ring itself. You usually need a tool to get the bead in and out, but once it's in, it looks super sleek. Then there are seamless rings. These are smooth rings that you twist open to insert, and they have no visible seam, giving a really clean, continuous look. Many people opt for seamless rings because they're comfortable and look really polished. For something a bit more statement, you've got clickers and hinged rings. These are super convenient because they have a hinge that allows you to easily open and close the jewelry without needing tools. Clickers often have a straight bar that clicks into place, and they can be adorned with gems or intricate designs. They're a fantastic option for septum piercings because they're easy to change and look super chic. Beyond the classic hoops, there are septa spikes and tapers. These are often worn by people who want a more edgy or alternative look. They can be quite dramatic and definitely make a statement. Another super popular style, especially for those who like a bit of sparkle, is the gemmed horseshoe. This is essentially a horseshoe ring (which we'll get to!) but with dazzling gems set along the ends or the bar. It adds a touch of glamour and really catches the light. Speaking of horseshoes, these are a type of circular barbell where the bar goes through your piercing and the two ends (often with balls or gems) stick out. You can flip a horseshoe up into your nose for discreet wear or wear it with both ends showing. They offer a slightly different aesthetic than a pure hoop. Finally, for a really minimalist vibe, you can consider septa pins or L-bends. These are straight pieces that curve at the end to stay in place, offering a very subtle and understated look. They're great if you want a tiny bit of adornment without being too flashy. When choosing your septum piercing jewelry, consider the gauge (thickness) and diameter (size) to ensure a comfortable fit. Too tight, and it can irritate; too loose, and it might get caught on things. Always consult with your piercer about the best size and style for your specific anatomy and healing stage!
Caring for Your Septum Jewelry and Piercing: Tips for a Happy Healing Journey
Guys, taking care of your brand-new septum piercing jewelry and the piercing itself is absolutely crucial for a smooth and speedy healing process. It's not super complicated, but consistency is key! The most important thing you can do is clean your piercing at least twice a day. Use a sterile saline solution β you can buy this pre-made at most pharmacies or piercing studios, or make your own by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in 8 ounces of warm distilled or bottled water. Gently clean around the piercing site with a clean cotton swab or gauze soaked in the saline solution. Be gentle; don't twist, turn, or play with your jewelry! This can irritate the healing tissue and introduce bacteria. Resist the urge to touch your piercing with unwashed hands β seriously, guys, this is a major no-no. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before you touch your piercing for any reason, even just to gently adjust the jewelry. For the first few weeks, you might notice some crusties around your piercing. These are totally normal and are just dried bodily fluids. The saline solution will help to soften and remove them. Don't pick at them! Just let the saline do its work. Avoid using harsh chemicals like alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antibacterial soaps on your piercing, as these can dry out and damage the delicate healing tissue. Also, try to avoid submerging your piercing in water like baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools for the first few weeks, as these can harbor bacteria. Showers are generally fine, just try to avoid getting soap directly in the piercing. Be mindful of your clothing and bedding. Be careful not to snag your jewelry on towels, scarves, or sweaters. Opt for clean, soft pillowcases and change them regularly. If your piercing starts to get red, swollen, painful, or starts to discharge thick, colored pus, these could be signs of infection. In that case, don't hesitate to reach out to your piercer or a medical professional. They can advise you on the best course of action. Once your septum piercing is fully healed (and this can take anywhere from 6-8 weeks to a few months, depending on your body), you can start thinking about changing your septum piercing jewelry. But even then, continue to clean your new jewelry before inserting it. Remember, a clean piercing is a happy piercing! Follow these simple steps, and you'll be rocking your stylish septum jewelry pain-free and in no time. Happy healing, everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions About Septum Piercing Jewelry
Let's tackle some of the burning questions you guys might have about septum piercing jewelry! We get asked a lot of the same things, so hopefully, this section will clear things up for you. What is the best jewelry for a fresh septum piercing? As we've covered, for a fresh piercing, you absolutely want to stick with high-quality, biocompatible materials. Implant-grade titanium is almost always the top recommendation due to its hypoallergenic properties and lightweight nature. 14k or 18k solid gold is also an excellent choice if you don't have any nickel sensitivities. A captive bead ring (CBR) or a seamless ring in one of these materials is usually what piercers will use initially. They're smooth, don't have sharp edges, and allow the piercing to heal without too much irritation. How long does it take for a septum piercing to heal? Generally, septum piercings have a relatively quick healing time compared to some other facial piercings. Most people find that their septum piercing is healed enough to change jewelry after about 6 to 8 weeks. However, it can take up to 3 months or even longer for the tissue to be completely settled and for any minor irritation to subside. Always listen to your body and consult your piercer before making that first jewelry change! Can I wear a horseshoe ring in a fresh septum piercing? While many people love the look of a horseshoe, it's generally not recommended for a fresh piercing. The balls or decorative ends on a horseshoe can sometimes be a bit too large or protrude in a way that irritates the healing fistula. Also, the ease of flipping it up can sometimes lead to unnecessary manipulation of the piercing. A seamless ring or a CBR is usually a safer bet for the initial healing phase. Once healed, a horseshoe can be a great choice! What gauge and diameter should I use for my septum jewelry? Standard initial gauges for septum piercings are usually 16g (1.6mm) or 14g (1.2mm). Your piercer will choose the appropriate gauge for your anatomy. The diameter will depend on how snug or loose you want your ring to be. A common diameter for a seamless ring or CBR is around 8mm to 10mm, but this can vary. Itβs crucial to get this measured by your piercer to ensure a comfortable fit and to avoid migration or irritation. Is it normal for my septum piercing to hurt after changing the jewelry? A little discomfort is normal after changing jewelry, especially if it's your first time. However, if you experience sharp pain, significant swelling, or bleeding, something might be wrong. It could mean the new jewelry is too small, too large, or the piercing isn't fully healed. Always go back to your piercer if you're concerned. Can I put jewelry in my septum piercing before it's fully healed? It's strongly advised not to change your septum piercing jewelry until your piercer says it's okay. Changing it too early can disrupt the healing process, introduce bacteria, and potentially lead to complications. Patience is key, guys! Your piercing will thank you for it in the long run.