An image of my septum piercing with a captive bead septum ring in it.

Septum Piercing: The Experience

I’ve always been a bit of a body piercing enthusiast. From ear piercings to eyebrow piercings, and even nipple piercings, I’ve done it all. But there was one piercing that always intrigued me: the septum piercing. I'd heard horror stories about the pain, but the allure of septum jewelry was too strong to resist.

Summer Septum Piercing

In the summer of 2022, I decided to bite the bullet and go for it. It was a spontaneous decision, one I wasn’t entirely sure about. I arrived at my local piercing studio, a quirky little place with odd hours, before they opened at 2 pm.


The studio was packed with a whole three people when they opened, all eager to get their first or next piercing. I joined the queue, feeling a mix of excitement and dread. I remembered the excruciating pain of my nostril piercing (the most painful piercing ever) and wondered if this would be even worse.

A person getting their septum piercing at a piercing studio.

The Septum Piercing Procedure

After what felt like an eternity of paying for the septum piercing, signing my life away, and sitting in an uncomfortable chair for 15 minutes, it was my turn. I sat in the piercer's chair, heart pounding. The piercer, a seasoned pro, explained the process, but I was too nervous to really listen that closely.

The actual piercing was surprisingly quick and painless. Of course, always before they actually stick the needle through your flesh, no matter what type of piercing, they tell you to inhale and slowly exhale. On the exhale they of course surprise you with the jolt.

I was amazed at how easy it was compared to my nostril piercing. The piercer inserted a horseshoe septum ring and gave me some aftercare instructions, including the bizarre advice to flip the jewelry up into my nose while sleeping. It seems this would extend the healing time. Especially if you start doing it too soon!

Please, Please Heal...

The healing process was a bit of a rollercoaster. There were the usual crusties and discomfort, but nothing too unbearable. However, I did struggle with the flipping-the-jewelry-up technique. It was painful and awkward, so I eventually gave up. But remember this always, saltwater is your friend when healing!

Saline solution for proper aftercare.

Now, years later, I’m still rocking my septum piercing. I’ve made it a part of me, a symbol of my individuality. While it can be a bit of a hassle, especially when blowing my nose, the overall experience has been positive.

One of the most unexpected challenges I faced was finding the right jewelry. It seems every piece I get, unless it is a plain hoop, I always have to adjust it so I don't feel like it looks out of place with being crooked at times.

Another challenge was dealing with people's reactions. Some people were curious and asked questions, while others were judgmental with their bottom lip on the ground in shock. I learned to ignore the negative comments and embrace the positive attention.

Over time, I've grown accustomed to my septum piercing. It's no longer a novelty; it's just a part of who I am.

One thing I've learned is that a septum piercing can be a great conversation starter. The people who are intrigued by it want to know more about my experience. It's a great way to connect with others and share your story.

So Do You Want A Your Septum Pierced Now?

So, if you're considering a septum piercing, I say go for it. Just be prepared for a bit of pain, a lot of discomfort, a new found patience, and some truly bizarre aftercare advice. And remember, the most important thing is to find a decent piercer that has experience and will guide you through the process.


Author: Scott S.
Rock Septum Rings

Need to find a piercer? Check out the Association of Professional Piercers.


Septum Nose Piercing Pictures

Woman with a nose piercing smiling.
Close up of a woman's nose.
Close up of a man's nose.
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