Nostril
piercing
Placed with millimetre precision — suited to flat-backs and fine hoops that sit flush against the crease.
Precision, to the millimetre
A nostril piercing is one of the most visible placements on the face, so placement accuracy matters more than almost anywhere else. We mark to the crease — the natural curve where the nostril wing meets the cheek — and check alignment from every angle before committing.
We pierce with an 18g needle and a titanium flat-back labret. The flat back sits flush inside the nostril and is more comfortable and more hygienic than traditional screw-back studs.
Jewellery style at placement sets the tone for the heal. A small, close-fit flat-back reads quietly as it heals; a BVLA piece can replace it at the downsize if that was the plan from the start.
Exactly what to expect
What healing looks like
Mild swelling, sensitivity
Normal. Saline rinses morning and evening. Keep makeup and skincare away from the site.
Inflammation reduces
Continue saline rinses. Avoid face masks that press on the placement; avoid pools.
We see you back
Complimentary downsize appointment. A shorter, closer-fit post now that swelling has settled.
Remodelling complete
The channel is stable. A hoop or decorative BVLA piece can be fitted freely.
Nine rules. No exceptions
Cartilage heals slowly because it's avascular — blood doesn't reach the tissue the way it does in a lobe. Following these precisely is the difference between a clean heal and months of trouble.
- 01Saline rinse twice dailySterile saline only. No hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or tea tree oil.
- 02Do not twist or rotateThe jewellery should move only when you downsize it. Rotation tears fresh tissue.
- 03Sleep on the opposite sidePressure during sleep is the leading cause of cartilage bumps. A travel pillow helps.
- 04No pools, oceans, or saunasFor at least six weeks. Water carries bacteria; heat delays healing.
- 05Phones kept cleanA phone against the ear is one of the dirtiest objects to contact a fresh piercing.
- 06Dry with clean tissue onlyPat dry — never rub. Bath towels harbour bacteria and snag on jewellery.
- 07Return for downsize at 8 weeksIncluded free. A shorter closer-fit post once swelling has settled.
- 08Keep makeup away from siteFor at least six weeks. Product wiped over a fresh piercing is a frequent cause of bumps.
Nostril work
Questions we're asked, often
If your question isn't here, bring it to the consultation. We'd rather answer it in person.
Does it hurt?
A nostril piercing is quick and sharp — most people tear up briefly, then it's over. Soreness for the first few days; mild tenderness for two weeks.
Will it leave a permanent mark if I take it out?
Possibly. A fresh piercing will close quickly; a long-healed one may leave a small indent or scar. We discuss this at consultation.
Can I wear a hoop straight away?
We start with a flat-back post so the placement can settle straight. A hoop is fitted at or after the downsize — it fits the healed channel cleanly.
Will makeup affect healing?
Keep foundation, primer, and skincare clear of the site for the first six weeks. Wiping product over a fresh piercing is a frequent cause of bumps.
Which side is most flattering?
Whichever you prefer. We can mark both and let you see before you commit — it's part of the consultation.
Book your nostril
All placements are by appointment. Expect a 45-minute slot, start to finish — with full anatomy consult, sterile placement, and aftercare included.
Jewellery for your
nose piercing
Seam rings and delicate ends are the most common choice for healed nose piercings. Every piece is fitted to your nostril anatomy at consultation — no counter sales, ever.
Browse all 88 BVLA pieces →
