Septum piercings are some of the most popular and desired facial piercings in modern times - and for good reason too! Because of their positioning, Septum Piercings do not leave visible marks and can be 'hidden' when required. This piercing is situated in the tissue between the nostrils and is unfortunately anatomy dependent, requiring the client to have a 'sweet spot' that sits between the cartilage and the lower thick skin. The sweet spot allows for optimal healing and comfort, often quite far forward sitting on clients.
These piercings are often deemed a fast healer; most clients find that the piercing is settled after the 8-12 week mark. The area is one of few piercings that should be pierced with a ring; some popular jewellery options include a horseshoe ring, ball closure ring, seam ring, adorned hinge ring, septum spikes and retainers. The piercing is commonly pierced at 1.2mm but can be stretched when fully healed to fit a desired look. Implant grade titanium and 14k (and above) gold are the most suitable jewellery types for an initial Septum Piercing.
The Septum Piercing originated within Native American tribes, who would often adorn their piercing with bone plugs made from their enemies bodies. Septum piercings have been spiritually associated with rebellion, success and good luck. They are not commonly gendered piercings.
Deviated Septums are incredibly common, with most people not being aware of their deviations! Deviations occur when one nasal passage is displaced higher than the other. Many deviations are not clear to the untrained eye, whereas more severe deviations cause trouble with breathing. A completely straight Septum Piercing is harder to achieve in these circumstances, where some anatomies are completely turned away. It's important to discuss anatomy with your piercer; if they are turning you away, it is usually because they aren’t able to see your desired look come to life.
Septum Piercings can be performed in a number of ways, most commonly with Septum forceps or freehanded with a receiver. It is critical that the preferred tools are kept incredibly secure during the procedure, this is generally the most uncomfortable part of the procedure.
Unfortunately not all Septums can be safely stretched as some anatomies do not allow enough of a sweet spot to hold this comfortably. It is not recommended and can be dangerous to stretch any earlier than 4 months after the initial piercing.
To conclude, Septum Piercings make a beautiful addition to any facial curation or Piercing set up, with a large range of jewellery choices available for the initial piercing. If you’re looking to get your Septum pierced, head down to your local Empress Piercing studio for an anatomy consultation!