Septum piercings have become one of the most popular facial piercings in recent years, loved for their edgy yet versatile style. Whether you prefer a subtle piece of jewellery or a bold statement design, knowing how long it takes to heal is important for both comfort and safety. Healing time affects when you can change your jewellery, how you care for your piercing, and how soon you can enjoy your new look without worrying about complications.
Understanding the Septum Piercing Process
A septum piercing is placed through the thin piece of soft tissue between the nostrils, often called the “sweet spot”. This placement avoids the harder cartilage and helps make the piercing less painful and easier to heal. A professional piercer uses a sterilised needle, followed by the insertion of your chosen starter jewellery.
Average Healing Time for a Septum Piercing
Most septum piercings take around 6 to 8 weeks for initial healing, although complete healing can take up to 6 months. During this time, it’s important to wear jewellery made from safe, high-quality materials to avoid irritation or infection. If you’re looking for a style that’s comfortable during healing, consider a well-fitted septum ring designed for fresh piercings, as these can help minimise unnecessary movement and pressure.
Factors That Affect Healing Time
Several things can influence how quickly your septum piercing heals:
- Piercing technique – Proper placement in the “sweet spot” reduces healing time.
- Jewellery material – Titanium, surgical steel, and niobium are less likely to cause irritation.
- Aftercare routine – Consistent cleaning with a saline solution keeps the area free from bacteria.
- Your health – A strong immune system and good overall health support faster recovery.
Stages of Healing for a Septum Piercing
- First 1–2 weeks – Swelling, tenderness, and possible crust build-up.
- Weeks 3–6 – Swelling reduces, and the piercing begins to feel less sensitive.
- Up to 6 months – Internal healing continues, even if it feels fully recovered on the outside.
How to Tell If Your Septum Piercing Has Healed
Signs your septum piercing is fully healed include:
- No swelling, redness, or pain.
- Smooth movement of the jewellery without discomfort.
- No discharge, crusting, or lingering tenderness.
Aftercare Tips for a Faster, Healthier Healing
- Clean the piercing twice a day with a sterile saline solution.
- Avoid twisting or flipping the jewellery unnecessarily.
- Keep makeup, skincare products, and harsh chemicals away from the area.
- Avoid swimming in public pools until the piercing has healed.
When You Can Change Your Septum Jewellery
While the initial healing might take a couple of months, it’s best to wait until the piercing is completely healed before changing jewellery. Changing too soon can cause irritation, slow the healing process, and increase the risk of infection. Once healed, you can experiment with different styles and materials, but always ensure they’re safe for long-term wear.
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Takeaways
A septum piercing can heal relatively quickly if it’s placed correctly, cared for properly, and given time to recover. Patience, good aftercare, and the right jewellery choice will make the process smooth and comfortable, letting you enjoy your piercing for years to come.
