Getting a nose piercing is a unique way to express yourself and enhance your personal style. However, if at some point you no longer wish to have the nose piercing, you may wonder how long it will take for the piercing hole to close up. The closure time can vary from person to person based on several factors.
What Is A Nose Piercing?
A nose piercing refers to any jewelry, such as a ring or stud, that is attached to the nose for decorative purposes. The most common parts of the nose that are pierced include:
- Nostril: A piercing through the side of the nose, in the flared part of the nostril. Nostril piercings are the most common type of nose piercing.
- Septum: A piercing through the cartilage wall (septum) separating the nostrils. Septum piercings are popular because the piercing hole is well hidden inside the nose.
- Bridge: A piercing through the tissue at the top of the nose, between the eyes. Bridge piercings are more rare but produce a dramatic look.
Why Do People Get Nose Piercings?
There are several reasons why people get nose piercings:
- For cultural or religious purposes. Nose piercings have been practiced in Indian and Nepalese culture for thousands of years.
- To express their unique style. Many people view nose piercings as a bold way to stand out from the crowd.
- Because they like the way it looks. Some people simply enjoy the aesthetic of nose rings or studs as a decorative facial accessory.
- To symbolize a rite of passage. In some cultures and social circles, a nose piercing is seen as a symbol of courage, endurance, and maturity.
- For the experience. Some people get nose piercings for the thrill of doing something daring and different. The nose piercing experience, though painful, can be exhilarating for the right individual.
How Long Does It Take for a Nose Piercing to Close?
The amount of time it takes for a nose piercing to close up depends on several factors, including:
- The age of the piercing: A new piercing will close up more quickly than an older, established piercing. A piercing that is less than 6 months old may close in just a few hours to a couple of days. An older piercing, 1-5 years or more, may take weeks or months to fully close.
- The location of the piercing: The thickness and blood flow of the tissue being pierced affects closure time. A septum piercing, through the soft cartilage, typically closes faster than a nostril piercing. A bridge piercing may take the longest to close due to the minimal tissue in that area.
- The type of jewelry used: Larger gauge jewelry and hoops or barbells tend to prevent piercings from closing for longer compared to smaller posts or studs. Non-porous materials like surgical steel or titanium also promote healing better than sterling silver or gold plated jewelry.
- How well the piercing is cared for: Proper aftercare, cleaning, and regularly rotating or moving the jewelry helps the piercing heal quickly and stay open. Neglecting aftercare or not wearing jewelry for periods of time will cause the piercing to shrink, stain, or close.
- Individual body response: Some people tend to heal piercings faster or slower due to genetics. Collagen production, circulation, and overall health can also affect an individual’s healing ability.
In general, a new nostril or septum piercing may close within 3-10 days without jewelry in place. An older piercing, 6-12 months or more, may remain somewhat open for 3-8 weeks before shrinking significantly or closing. Bridge piercings tend to close fastest, within a week or less, due to limited tissue and exposure to environmental contaminants. With patience and gentle restretching, some piercings can even remain partially open for many months without jewelry. However, there is no guarantee a piercing will remain open or be able to be re-stretched. It is best to keep piercings in whenever possible to maintain the piercing.
Tips for Preventing a Nose Piercing from Closing
•Keep the piercing clean and dry. Gently clean the piercing twice a day using saline solution or plain water. Pat the piercing dry with sterile gauze or paper towels after cleaning and bathing. Excess moisture can promote infection and slow down healing.
•Avoid touching, playing with, or picking at the piercing. Play with or manipulating the piercing can lead to swelling, bleeding, infection, scarring, and delayed healing. Wash your hands before cleaning the piercing as well.
•Do not use harsh soaps or chemicals on the piercing. Harsh chemicals can irritate the sensitive skin and damage newly forming skin cells. Use only saline solution, water, or a mild unscented soap to clean the piercing.
•Wear jewelry that is made of a hypoallergenic material, such as titanium or gold. High quality metal jewelry is less likely to cause a reaction or infection. Remove and clean the jewelry at least once a week when caring for a new piercing.
•See your piercer for regular checkups. Have your piercer examine the piercing within 3-5 days after the initial piercing and again at around 3 weeks. They can check for signs of infection or improper healing and make sure the piercing is healing on track. Be sure to report any excessive swelling, redness, or pus to your piercer right away.
Conclusion
A nose piercing can be a beautiful and stylish addition to your appearance. However, it is important to remember that nose piercings require proper care and attention in order to heal properly and prevent them from closing. By following the tips in this article, you can help ensure that your nose piercing heals smoothly and lasts for years to come. With time and patience, a well-cared for nose piercing will become as much a part of you as your smile or laugh. Enjoy your unique jewelry and wear it proudly!