Nose & Septum Piercing Aftercare
Targeted saline care for nostril and septum piercings, including tips for managing sneezing, colds, and daily irritation.
Step-by-Step Care Routine
Cleaning Routine
Spray sterile saline onto the piercing twice daily, letting it sit briefly before wiping away any crust with a clean gauze pad. For septum piercings, gently clean both the visible entry points and just underneath if jewelry allows access.
Managing Everyday Irritation
Colds and sneezing are unavoidable — blow your nose gently and avoid pressing directly on the jewelry. If wearing a septum retainer flipped up for work or events, always flip it back down as soon as possible to avoid extended irritation.
What TO Do
- Clean with saline twice daily, even once healed.
- Use fragrance-free tissues if you have a cold during healing.
- Keep makeup, skincare products, and hair products away from the piercing site.
What NOT To Do
- Do NOT remove or change jewelry before full healing is confirmed by your piercer.
- Do NOT press on or bump the piercing when washing your face.
- Do NOT flip a septum retainer up and leave it for extended periods during healing.
Recommended Care Products
Sterile saline spray, non-woven gauze pads, fragrance-free tissues.
Warning Signs & Complications
Contact your piercer if you notice persistent throbbing, thick discharge, the piercing appears to be migrating or shrinking, or if the surrounding cartilage becomes visibly swollen or hot to the touch.