Nose Piercing 101: Pain, Aftercare, Jewellery Tips & Bump Care

Thinking About a Nose Piercing? Here’s What You Should Know

So, you’re ready to get your nose pierced? Whether it’s your first time or you’re adding to your collection, a nose piercing is a stylish and expressive way to switch up your look. But before you head to the studio, you might be wondering:

Does it hurt? How do I look after it? And what’s the deal with those little bumps people talk about?

Don’t worry—we’ve got all the answers! This guide covers pain levels, healing tips, aftercare, common problems, and when it’s safe to change your jewellery.

Let’s Talk Pain—Does a Nose Piercing Hurt?

Short answer: yes, but only for a second. Most people say it feels like a quick pinch—sharp but over in a flash. It’s very common for your eyes to water (totally normal!) but the pain fades quickly.

What it feels like:

• A pinch or quick sting

• Slight burning sensation afterwards

• A bit tender for a few days

On a pain scale from 1 to 10, most rate it around a 3–5. It’s completely manageable!

How to Care for Your New Nose Piercing

Taking care of your piercing properly helps it heal faster and prevents infections or irritation. Luckily, the routine is super simple.

✅ DO:

• Clean your piercing twice a day with saline solution (or a sea salt soak).

• Wash your hands before touching your piercing.

• Be gentle with makeup or skincare near your nose.

❌ DON’T:

• Don’t twist or turn your jewellery.

• Don’t use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or strong antiseptics—they’re too harsh.

• Don’t take out the jewellery until it’s fully healed.

Stick with this routine, and your piercing should heal up nicely within a few weeks to a couple of months.

The Bump Issue—And What to Do About It

Ah yes, the dreaded nose piercing bump. These little lumps can pop up due to irritation, pressure, or even just sleeping on the wrong side. The good news? They’re super common and usually go away with some care.

How to treat a bump:

• Continue with your regular saline soaks.

• Try a chamomile tea bag compress once or twice a day (steep the tea bag, let it cool slightly, and press it gently against the bump).

• Avoid touching or changing the jewellery too soon.

Bumps are usually temporary and respond well to gentle treatment and patience.

Other Things to Watch For

Some redness, swelling, and tenderness are totally normal at first. But if you notice:

• Increasing pain

• Yellow or green discharge

• A warm, throbbing sensation

...you might have a minor infection. Clean gently with saline, and if things don’t improve, check in with your piercer or a healthcare provider. Don’t remove the jewellery, as that can make things worse by trapping bacteria inside.

When Can I Change My Nose Jewellery?

We get it—you’re excited to switch it up! But it’s super important to wait until your piercing has healed properly before changing your jewellery.

For most people, that’s around 2 to 3 months. Healing times can vary depending on your body and how well you care for it, so if in doubt, ask your piercer to take a look before making the switch.

Tips for a Happy, Healthy Piercing

• Choose a reputable piercer with proper hygiene standards.

• Start with high-quality jewellery (think titanium, gold, or surgical steel).

• Sleep on the opposite side to avoid pressure.

• Keep your skincare routine gentle and avoid harsh products near the area.

• Be patient—good healing takes time!

Final Thoughts: You’re Gonna Look Amazing

Getting your nose pierced is such a fun way to show off your style. While it might sting a little and take some care, it’s totally worth it once you’ve got that sparkly new stud or hoop shining bright.

Stick to the aftercare, stay patient, and your piercing will heal beautifully. And remember—if anything feels off, your piercer is always your best resource.