Nose piercings are a popular form of body modification that allow individuals to adorn their nasal septum or nostrils in a unique, eye-catching way. But having a piece of jewelry in your nose can cause some congestion concerns when you get a cold or allergies.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Use gentle pressure, blow one nostril at a time, clean the jewelry and nose afterwards, and avoid excessive rubbing and tugging on the nose ring.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore proper techniques for blowing your nose when you have a nasal piercing. We’ll also discuss aftercare, troubleshooting problems, and when it’s best to remove the jewelry temporarily.
Nose Blowing Technique with a Nose Ring
Blowing your nose can be a bit tricky if you have a nose ring, but with the right technique, it can be done without any discomfort or risk of damaging your piercing. Here are some tips to help you blow your nose effectively while keeping your nose ring intact.
Blow one nostril at a time
When you have a nose ring, it’s important to blow your nose one nostril at a time. This will help you avoid any unnecessary pressure or movement on the ring. Start by gently closing one nostril with your finger and blowing gently through the other nostril. Repeat the process for the other nostril.
By doing this, you will minimize the risk of causing any discomfort or irritation to your nose ring.
Apply light pressure on tissues
When using tissues to blow your nose, make sure to apply light pressure. Pressing too hard can cause the tissue to snag on your nose ring, potentially leading to pain or even accidentally pulling out the jewelry.
By applying gentle pressure, you can effectively clear your nostrils without risking any harm to your piercing.
Be gentle around the piercing
When wiping or cleaning your nose, be extra careful around the area where your nose ring is located. Avoid rubbing or pulling on the jewelry, as this can cause irritation or even lead to the ring getting caught on the tissue.
Instead, use a soft cloth or tissue to gently clean around the piercing without putting any strain on it.
Don’t create tension on the ring
Avoid creating tension on your nose ring while blowing your nose. This means you should refrain from tugging or pulling on the jewelry when handling tissues or wiping your nose. Excessive movement or pressure on the ring can cause discomfort, irritation, or even increase the risk of the ring getting dislodged.
It’s best to handle your nose ring delicately to ensure its longevity and your own comfort.
Remember, if you’re unsure about how to properly blow your nose with a nose ring, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional piercer or your healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide you with more specific advice based on your individual piercing and any concerns you may have.
Aftercare Tips for Nose Piercings
Getting a nose piercing can be an exciting and stylish way to express yourself. However, it’s important to properly care for your new piercing to ensure it heals properly and minimizes the risk of infection. Here are some aftercare tips to follow:
Clean jewelry and nose regularly
Keeping your nose and jewelry clean is essential for preventing infections. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap to gently clean the area around the piercing twice a day. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching your piercing.
Mayo Clinic suggests using a cotton swab or a clean, disposable tissue to clean the jewelry and the inside of your nose. Remember to pat the area dry with a clean towel or tissue after cleaning.
Use saline spray for moisture
Keeping your piercing moisturized is crucial for preventing dryness and irritation. Use a saline spray to keep the area clean and hydrated. Saline sprays can be found at most drugstores and are specifically designed to promote healing and prevent infections.
Simply spray the saline solution on the piercing and gently pat dry with a clean tissue. NCBI recommends using saline solution to cleanse and moisturize the piercing twice a day.
Rotate ring during healing
While it’s important to avoid unnecessary touching of your piercing, gently rotating the ring can help prevent it from sticking to the surrounding tissue. This can be done after cleaning the area with clean hands.
However, it’s important to note that excessive or rough rotation can cause irritation or delay the healing process. Be gentle and mindful when rotating the ring to avoid any complications.
Give new piercings extra care
New piercings require extra care and attention. Avoid touching your piercing with dirty hands and avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or bodies of water during the initial healing period. It’s also important to avoid using any harsh cleaning products or ointments on the piercing.
If you experience any unusual redness, swelling, or discharge, consult a professional piercer or healthcare provider for advice.
Remember, everyone’s healing process is different, so be patient and diligent with your aftercare routine. By following these tips, you can ensure a healthy and beautiful healing process for your nose piercing.
Avoiding Potential Issues and Irritation
Prevent excessive rubbing and tugging
One of the key things to keep in mind when blowing your nose with a nose ring is to avoid excessive rubbing and tugging. The delicate skin around the piercing can easily get irritated or even damaged if you’re too rough.
To prevent this, use soft tissues and gently dab or wipe your nose instead of rubbing vigorously. This will help minimize any potential discomfort or irritation.
Blow gently to avoid trauma
Blowing your nose with a nose ring requires a gentle approach to avoid any trauma to the piercing. When you feel the need to blow your nose, try to do so with a controlled and gentle exhale. Forceful blowing can cause the ring to move around and potentially irritate the piercing.
Remember, a little patience and a gentle touch can go a long way in keeping your nose ring intact and your nose comfortable.
Don’t blow too frequently
While blowing your nose is necessary to clear your airways, doing it too frequently can lead to additional irritation. If you’re constantly blowing your nose, the constant movement of the ring can cause discomfort and prolong the healing process.
Try to limit blowing your nose to when it’s absolutely necessary and consider using nasal sprays or saline solutions to alleviate congestion in between. This will help reduce the chances of any issues with your nose ring.
Be vigilant about cleaning after touching
After blowing your nose, it’s important to be vigilant about cleaning the area around your piercing. Use a clean cotton swab or a saline solution to gently clean the outer part of the piercing, removing any mucus or debris that may have accumulated.
This will help prevent any potential infections or irritations. Additionally, washing your hands thoroughly before touching your nose or the ring itself is crucial to maintain proper hygiene.
Removing Jewelry Temporarily for Severe Congestion
Having a nose ring can be a beautiful and stylish addition to your appearance, but what happens when you’re dealing with severe congestion? Removing your nose ring temporarily may be necessary to alleviate discomfort and allow you to blow your nose more effectively.
Here are some steps to safely remove and re-insert your nose studs.
How to safely remove and re-insert nose studs
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your nose ring. This helps prevent any dirt or bacteria from entering the piercing.
2. Gently twist the nose stud in a clockwise direction to loosen it. Avoid pulling or tugging on the jewelry, as this can cause pain or damage to the piercing.
3. Once the nose stud is loose, carefully slide it out of the piercing hole. Take your time and be gentle to avoid any unnecessary discomfort.
4. To re-insert the nose stud, clean it with a saline solution or alcohol wipe to ensure it’s free from any germs. Then, line up the stud with the piercing hole and gently push it through until it feels secure.
Storing the jewelry properly
When you have removed your nose ring, it’s important to store it properly to avoid misplacing or damaging it. Here are some tips:
- Use a small jewelry box or container to keep your nose ring safe.
- Consider using a jewelry pouch or a dedicated section in your jewelry organizer to prevent tangling with other pieces.
- Avoid placing your nose ring on bathroom countertops or other surfaces where it could easily be knocked off or lost.
Letting new piercings close temporarily
If your nose piercing is relatively new, it’s essential to consult with your piercer before removing the jewelry. In some cases, removing the nose ring too soon can cause the piercing to close up, making it difficult or painful to re-insert the jewelry.
Consulting your piercer for advice
If you’re unsure about removing your nose ring or have any concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult with your piercer. They have the expertise and knowledge to provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for guidance and support.
Remember, maintaining good hygiene practices and seeking professional advice are crucial when it comes to removing and re-inserting your nose ring. By following these steps and taking proper care, you can safely navigate through periods of severe congestion without compromising your style.
Choosing Appropriate Nose Jewelry
When it comes to blowing your nose with a nose ring, choosing the right jewelry is key. Here are some factors to consider:
Studs versus hoops for easier blowing
While both studs and hoops can be worn with a nose ring, studs are generally recommended for easier blowing. The flat surface of a stud sits flush against the nostril, allowing for a smoother flow of air when blowing your nose.
Hoops, on the other hand, may obstruct the airflow due to their circular shape. So, if you anticipate needing to blow your nose frequently, opt for a stud.
Metal type like titanium or gold
Another important consideration is the type of metal used in your nose ring. Materials like titanium and gold are often preferred due to their hypoallergenic properties. These metals are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions, which can be especially beneficial when you need to blow your nose.
Choosing high-quality metals will also ensure durability and longevity of your nose ring.
Jewelry gauge and fit
The gauge and fit of your nose jewelry also play a role in comfortable nose blowing. A smaller gauge, such as 20 or 18, is recommended for easier airflow. Additionally, ensure that your nose ring fits snugly, but not too tight, to avoid any discomfort or potential damage to your piercing.
If you’re unsure about the gauge or fit, consult with a professional piercer who can guide you in choosing the right size.
Remember, blowing your nose with a nose ring might require some adjustment and practice. It’s important to be mindful of your jewelry choice and ensure it allows for comfortable and unrestricted airflow.
By choosing appropriate nose jewelry, you can confidently tackle the task of blowing your nose without any unnecessary discomfort or complications.
Conclusion
While nose piercings can initially make blowing your nose more difficult, with proper technique you can keep your jewelry intact and your nose clear. Remember to be gentle, blow one side at a time, clean the area regularly, and remove new piercings if very congested.
With some adjustments, you can confidently combat colds while rocking your favorite nose accessory.
