Photo: getty
By Nicole Lane — Written on May 29, 2018
Nose — or, more accurately, nostril — piercings are nothing new. In fact, according to Painful Pleasures, "people have been piercing their noses for a variety of reasons for more than 4,000 years, giving nose piercing one of the longest and richest histories of any type of body piercing." However, nostril piercings did not gain traction in West until the 20th Century, when the piercing became synonymous with punk, artist, and bohemian cultures.
That said, today these types of nose rings and nose ring studs for nostril piercings are relatively common — i.e. they are seen on women and men of all races and all ages. But what is a nostril piercing? Well, according to Infinite Body Piercing, a nostril piercing is any piercing which passes through the high or low nostril, though the piercing "tends to heal most quickly — and look most natural — [when it is placed] in the horizontal crease."
Healing times will vary, depending on the your body, your environment, and how you care for your piercing; however, no matter who or where you are, you should expect this piercing to take at least six months — and, in some cases, a year — to fully heal.
The good news is that, while this piercing is healing, you can wear a wide range of jewelry options (from studs and screws to hoops and rings). Below you will find some of our favorite choices, including some truly unique nose rings. (Note: Not all pieces pictured are appropriate for new nostril piercings.)
Studs & Screws
1. Nostril Piercing from Haven Body Arts
This CZ end from Anatometal may be common, but it is far from boring. Cute and classy!
2. Triple Nostril Piercing from Anna Beall
What's better than one nostril piercing? Three.
3. Nostril Piercing from Primal Decor
A variation of the classic CZ stud, this floral-inspired piece is perfect for the gal (or guy) who wants to take their nostril piercing to the next level.
4. Nostril Piercing from Evan Quinno
With a low profile and clean hammered face, this gold disk from Anatometal is elegant and edgy.
5. Nostril Piercing from Misshapen Pickle
This rose gold spider from LeRoi Fine Body Jewelry may be cute, but it isn't for the faint of heart.
6. Nostril Piercing from Stay True Body Piercing
With intricate gold detailing and a large center stone, this piece from Anatometal is sure to garner some attention.
7. Nostril Piercing from Haven Body Arts
Want to add some elegance to your look? A simple CZ nostril stud is both beautiful and timeless.
8. Nostril Piercing from Identity Body Piercing
This three bead cluster proofs that sometimes less really is more.
9. Nostril Piercing from Anatomic Body Piercing
Add a pop of color to your face with this genuine turquoise end from BVLA.
10. Triple Nostril Piercing from Infinite Body Piercing
I don't know which is more impressive: the jewelry or the piercings. Seriously. This set is stunning.
11. Nostril Piercing from Aliya Schwengler
Bold and beautiful, this 6mm Hera end from Anatometal really makes a statement.
12. Nostril Piercing from Dan Chanthongthip
Want a nostril piercing but not set on a simple stud? This gold crescent moon — from Anatometal — is out of this world.
13. High Nostril Piercings from Infinite Body Piercing
What's better than one nostril piercing or two? A pair of nostril piercings and a pair of high nostril piercings.
14. Nostril Piercing from Misshapen Pickle
Adorable and fashionable, this star end from Neometal really is stellar.
15. Nostril Piercing from The End Is Near Piercing
The intricate design of the gold Shandra from BVLA makes it cultured and classy. A real statement!
Rings
16. Nostril Piercing from Amato Fine Jewelry & Body Piercing
With a CZ end and circular body, this piece from BVLA combines the look of a stud and a ring to make something truly special.
17. Nostril Piercing from Aninha Braga Piercer
There's no such thing as too much bling, and this piece proves it. Beau-ti-ful.
18. Double Nostril Piercing from The Official Bob Jones
Simple and stylish, this CZ stud/ring combo is bound to add some subtle edge to your appearance.
19. Nostril Piercing from Paige Toth
The Oaktier from BVLA isn't just bold, it is beautiful! Seriously. This piece is a real showstopper!
20. Nostril Piercing from Nicole Bealer
This gold ring from Anatometal adds a touch of class to any piercing. Pure elegance!
Nicole Lane is a wife, mother, writer, and regular contributor for YourTango. She is a staunch defender of women's rights, she believes firmly in equality and parity, and she is an advocate for women's health, mental health, and sexuality.