Understanding the Risks of DIY Nose Piercing
Before we delve into any steps, it’s crucial to understand that piercing your nose at home with a sewing needle is not recommended. This practice comes with significant risks such as infection, improper placement, scarring, and transmission of diseases if the needle is not sterilized properly. Professional piercers have the right tools, knowledge, and sterile environment to reduce the risk of complications. If you are set on piercing your nose, it is highly advised that you visit a professional piercing studio. However, for informational purposes only, the following steps illustrate the general process one might follow to pierce a nose at home, emphasizing the importance of safety and sterility.
Preparations for a DIY Nose Piercing
If you still decide to proceed against medical advice, here are the steps you would need to take, bearing in mind the pitfalls and ensuring maximum safety.
Step 1: Do Your Research
Learn as much as you can about nose piercings, aftercare, potential risks, and signs of infection. This knowledge will be crucial for maintaining your piercing if you proceed.
Step 2: Opt for the Correct Supplies
While a sewing needle is not advisable, if you have no other option you should choose a new needle that’s large enough to create a hole for the type of jewelry you wish to wear. A piercing needle, which is hollow, is the professional choice. You’ll also need hypoallergenic jewelry made of surgical steel, titanium, or 14k gold to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
Step 3: Sanitize Everything
Sterilize the needle, jewelry, and the area of the nose you plan to pierce. You can sterilize the needle by boiling it for 5-10 minutes or by using a flame, but note that these methods do not guarantee complete sterilization. Using an autoclave, as professionals do, is the best method for sterilization. Wash your hands thoroughly and use medical gloves. Clean the area on the nose with an antiseptic solution.
Step 4: Mark the Spot
Decide where exactly on your nose you want the piercing. It’s commonly done on the nostril or the septum. Mark the spot with a body-safe marker or pen.
Step 5: Get Comfortable and Prepare for the Pain
Choose a comfortable, well-lit, and clean space. Be prepared for pain, as piercing yourself may hurt quite a bit more than having it done by a professional.
Performing the Piercing
Step 6: Position the Needle
Hold the sterilized needle with a steady hand. Place it at the marked spot on your nose.
Step 7: Pierce the Nose
Take a deep breath and in one swift, continuous motion, push the needle through your nostril. Do this confidently to minimize pain and reduce the risk of mistakes.
Step 8: Insert the Jewelry
Once the needle is through, immediately follow it with the sterilized jewelry. If delayed, the hole can begin to close up. Make sure the jewelry goes into the hole smoothly, without forcing it.
Step 9: Aftercare
Carefully clean the new piercing twice a day with a saline solution. Do not touch the piercing with dirty hands and try to minimize movement of the jewelry during the healing process, which can take several weeks.
Potential Complications and Conclusion
After piercing your nose, monitor the area for signs of infection, which include excessive redness, swelling, pus, or pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Moreover, it’s important to recognize that even with the utmost care, DIY piercings can lead to complications that may require professional medical treatment.
It bears repeating: the safest and most responsible choice for getting a nose piercing is to go to a professional piercing studio. Professionals follow strict health and safety guidelines to ensure the process is as safe and hygienic as possible. By choosing professional services, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of complications and will likely be more satisfied with the outcome.