Nose Bridge Piercing: The Only Guide You’ll Need

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A nose bridge piercing sits in an unusual spot, making it an excellent choice for people who want a distinctive style. If you’re considering getting one, we’re excited for you.

However, before getting this peculiar nose piercing, you need lots of information on it so you can make the right decision. In this guide, we’ll share all you need to know about a nose bridge piercing. 


What is a nose bridge piercing?

Nose ridge piercing - Nose Bridge Piercings: The Only Guide You’ll Need

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A nose bridge (or Erl) piercing sits horizontally on your nose bridge, the thinnest part of your upper nose between your eyes. It appears to go through the bone between the eyes, but it doesn’t. A bridge piercing is a surface piercing that passes through the thin layer of flesh found on your nose bridge. 


Getting a nose bridge piercing

Young lady with a nose bridge piercing

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Before getting a nose bridge piercing, here’s what you should know.  

Are nose bridge piercings safe?

Nose bridge piercings are safer than most nose piercings. They go through the flesh, so they tend to be less painful. However, there are risks associated with bridge piercings, like the chances of your skin rejecting the piercing or getting infected. 

Do nose bridge piercings hurt?

Like every other piercing, nose bridge piercings come with a measure of pain. But they hurt less than other piercings like the septum and nasallang (which are cartilage piercings). 

💡 Fun Fact: Although they may look very painful because of their unusual location, nose bridge piercings hurt less than other common piercings. 

How much is a nose bridge piercing?

A nose bridge piercing will cost between $30 to $90. The exact price may differ depending on your piercing studio and jewelry choice.

What does nose bridge piercing symbolize?

In ancient Mesoamerica, the Mayans and Aztec cultures viewed a nose bridge piercing as a sign of beauty. This piercing isn’t so common today, but it signifies that you’re eccentric and willing to stand out. 

Is it normal for a bridge piercing to bleed?

Yes, bleeding is normal for a fresh bridge piercing, so don’t worry. Simply clean up the piercing site regularly and follow proper aftercare as your piercer advises.

However, if a bridge piercing not only bleeds but also produces pus, reddens, and feels hot, it could be a sign of infection. 


Caring for nose bridge piercings

Woman wearing nose bridge piercing jewelry

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Because they exist in such a delicate spot, nose bridge piercings require extra care. Keep these tips in mind. 

How long does a nose bridge piercing take to heal?

A nose bridge piercing takes about two to three months to heal, especially if you practice diligent aftercare and proper hygiene. 

Does a nose bridge piercing always reject?

Because it’s a surface piercing, a nose bridge piercing is likely to reject. Piercing rejection happens when your skin marks your jewelry as a foreign object and gradually pushes it out. However, not all bridge piercings experience rejection. 

How long do nose bridge piercings last?

Nose bridge piercings have a high rejection rate, so yours may not last forever. Your skin could reject it anytime, during the healing or years after it has healed. 

What does a rejecting bridge piercing look like?

When a piercing rejects, the site becomes sore and red. The hole also gets more prominent, and you’ll notice that the jewelry has moved from its exact piercing spot. You may also start to see the jewelry under the skin. 

How do you clean a bridge piercing?

Cleaning is vital to protect your bridge piercing from infection. Follow these steps to clean your bridge piercing:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water.
  2. Dip a cotton swab in saline solution and let it soak.
  3. Use the cotton swab to clean each end of the piercing. 
  4. Alternatively, use a saline solution spray.
  5. Let the piercing dry naturally.

Clean your bridge piercing with saline solution twice a day. If your piercer consents, you can use mild soap and water to clean the piercing site daily. Ensure to rinse it thoroughly after each wash. 

💡 Take Note: Apart from the cleaning, you should also practice other aftercare measures. Always keep hair and skin products away from your bridge piercing while healing. Avoid touching the piercing unnecessarily, and keep the initial piercing jewelry in until it heals. 

Do bridge piercing scars go away?

If you develop a scar from your bridge piercing, you can expect it to fade gradually. Thick, raised scars (hypertrophic scars) on the piercing site are common, but they become less obvious with time. 

Would a nose bridge piercing suit me?

A nose bridge piercing will suit you if you have a narrow nose with enough flesh at the bridge or a long nose that’s fleshy at the bridge. 

A bridge piercing may not be comfortable if you have a bony nose. If you use eyeglasses, you can still get a bridge piercing, but you’ll have to choose the positioning and jewelry type carefully (get help from your piercer too).

What jewelry is best for bridge piercing?

Among all nose rings, barbells are best for bridge piercings. You can go for a straight barbell or a curved barbell.

  • Straight barbell: A straight barbell is a straight, narrow piece with a bead at each end. It’s the most common jewelry choice for bridge piercings. 

3PCS Stainless Steel Straight Barbell 14 Gauge 5/16 8mm 4mm Crystal Ball Helix Lobe Earrings Eyebrow Piercing Jewelry 3284

6PCS Stainless Steel Black Straight Barbell 16g 6mm 8mm 10mm 3mm Ball Cone Eyebrow Helix Earrings Rook Piercing Jewelry 0687

  • Curved barbell: This is a curved, narrow piece with a bead at each end. The shape of a curved barbell fits with the shape of the nose bridge. It sits comfortably in the piercing making rejection less likely.

BodyJewelryOnline Spike Beads Curved Barbell Eyebrow Piercing, Black Titanium Anodized Coating, 16g Thickness, [10mm] 3/8” Bar Length, Surgical Steel, Hypoallergenic, Nickel-Free


Frequently asked questions

Do you still have questions about nose bridge piercings? We’ve gathered answers to the most asked questions here.

What anatomy do you need for a bridge piercing?

Since a bridge piercing goes through the nose bridge, you’ll need enough flesh in that part of your nose. If your nose is thick at the nasal bridge, you’re good to go with a bridge piercing.

How do you hide a nose bridge piercing?

If you need to hide your nose bridge piercing, place a skin-colored bandage over it. You can change the initial piercing jewelry to a retainer if it’s a healed piercing. Also, clear retainers are less conspicuous and will hide your piercing while keeping it open. 

How do you get rid of a piercing bump on a bridge piercing?

If you’ve noticed a bump on your new bridge piercing, don’t worry. It’s part of your body’s natural response to injury. As long as you keep it from getting infected, it will gradually disappear. Keep the area clean using saline twice daily and practice other aftercare measures. 


Stand out with an eccentric piercing

Only a few people would go for a bridge piercing, and that’s what makes it unique. So if you’ve decided to get this cool piercing, rock it proudly. 

Now that you know what to expect from a nose bridge piercing, you can prepare to care for it properly. And if your piercing rejects after you’ve taken all necessary measures, you can always wait for some time and try again. 

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