Last Updated 21/07/2026 | Written by Maëlys Chamard, Co-Founder of MADAJ

The nostril piercing, or nasal piercing, is one of the most timeless facial piercings, worn across cultures for centuries. It combines subtlety and boldness, making it a favorite for those who want to express their personal style.

• Placement: The side of the nose, at the level of the nostril
• Piercing service fee: $30–$80, jewelry cost is separate
• Pain Level: 4–5/10
• Healing Time: 4 to 6 months
• Aftercare: Clean your piercing twice a day with a sterile saline solution. Keep the pierced area clean and dry.

The nostril piercing is typically positioned on the side of the nose, at the level of the left or right nostril. However, there are also variations such as double piercing, where two jewelry pieces are placed on the nostrils, creating a bold and asymmetrical look. The choice between the left or right nostril often depends on personal preferences and the desired aesthetic.

Some opt for the nostril that corresponds to their dominant side, while others choose based on their style or existing piercing composition.

A nostril piercing involves two separate costs:

• Piercing service fee: a piercer will typically charge $30–$80 for the procedure, depending on your studio and location. 
• Jewelry cost: varies depending on the material or metal and the design you choose. For reference, here's what's typically available on the wider market:
  - ASTM F136 titanium studs and rings generally start around $10 and go above $50 for more detailed designs
  - 14k/18k gold pieces set with precious stones typically cost $30 to $2,500+, depending on gold grade and stone quality. 
  - MADAJ nose jewelry is priced from $180 for studs and $480 for rings. Each crafted to order in nickel-free, hypoallergenic solid 18k gold and set with diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, or black diamonds; stones are G–VS grade natural diamonds and AAA grade for gems, with a Certificate of Authenticity included in every order.

Nostril Piercing Pain Level: (4-5/10)

Nostril piercing is generally associated with a moderate level of pain, rated between 4 and 5 on our pain scale. This estimation is based on several factors, including individual sensitivity, the specific location of the piercing, and the piercing process itself.

When the needle passes through the delicate skin of the nostril, it's normal to feel a temporary sensation of stinging or pressure.

How to reduce the pain during nostril piercing procedure?

Use of lidocaine-based numbing cream (EMLA or generics). This cream is available in pharmacies by prescription. It is recommended to apply it between 30 minutes to 1 hour before to pierce your nostril.

Ultimately, though nostril piercing may cause a moderate level of pain, many piercing enthusiasts consider the final result well worth it.

A little preparation goes a long way toward a smoother appointment and easier healing.

• Decide on your jewelry first. Whether you're going with a stud or a nose ring, settle on your gold color, gemstone, and sizing before your appointment rather than at the studio.
• Research your piercer. Look for a licensed, experienced piercer with visible sterilization practices and solid reviews specifically for nose piercings.
• Have a meal beforehand. Piercing on an empty stomach increases the chance of feeling lightheaded.
• Skip alcohol and blood thinners. Avoiding alcohol and medications like aspirin in the 24 hours before your appointment can reduce bleeding and swelling. Check with your doctor before pausing any prescribed medication.
• Sleep well the night before. Being well rested makes the appointment more comfortable and supports healing afterward.
• Stock up on aftercare supplies. Have sterile saline solution ready at home so you can start cleaning right away.
• Avoid heavy makeup around the nose on the day of your appointment, since your piercer will need a clean, product-free area to mark and pierce.

• Initial consultation to discuss expectations and practical details of the piercing.
• Jewelry selection; opt for 18k gold jewelry for better healing and to avoid any allergic reactions.
• Thorough cleaning of the nasal area to remove bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.
• Precise marking of the piercing location using a sterile marker.
• Selection and preparation of a sterile needle of appropriate gauge.
• Accurate insertion of the needle through the skin of the nostril.
• Secure attachment of the chosen piercing jewelry.
• Detailed instructions on post-piercing care and provision of written advice.
• Scheduling a follow-up appointment to monitor healing progress and address any additional questions.

• Gently clean the piercing area twice a day with a mild soap and warm water.
• Use a sterile saline solution to clean the area, avoiding products containing alcohol or iodine.
• Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands and excessively manipulating the jewelry.
• Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel or tissue after cleaning.
• Avoid rubbing or scratching the piercing, as this can irritate the skin and delay healing.
• Avoid swimming pools, jacuzzis, and public baths during the healing period to reduce the risk of infection.

If signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge appear, immediately consult a healthcare professional.

As with any piercing, the nose carries some risk of complications, most commonly infection, irritation bumps, or jewelry rejection.

Signs of infection include increasing redness, swelling, discharge, or pain that gets worse instead of better.

If any of these appear, consult a healthcare professional immediately rather than waiting it out.

To Reduce Risk : Keep the piercing dry and clean per your aftercare routine, avoid touching it with unwashed hands, avoid swimming pools and public baths during healing, and don't change the jewelry yourself until your piercer confirms it's ready.

The complete healing time for a nose piercing typically ranges from 4 to 6 months or longer, depending on the individual and skin healing capacity.

• First few weeks: Swelling, redness, and sensitivity around the piercing are normal. A light crust may also form, avoid removing it, since it helps protect the healing area.
• Ongoing (up to 6 months): Follow your cleaning routine consistently and avoid excessive touching or manipulation. Don't change the jewelry during healing unless absolutely necessary.

If you notice increasing pain, swelling, or discharge at any stage, consult your piercer or a doctor rather than waiting it out.

Nose

Placement: Side of the nose, at the level of the nostril
Pain Level: 4–5/10
Healing Time: 4 to 6 months
Jewelry Fit: Suits most anatomies
Common Jewelry: Studs, small rings/ hoops

Septum

Placement: Through the thin strip of cartilage between the nostrils
Pain Level: 4/10
Healing Time: 3 to 6 months
Jewelry Fit: Requires enough cartilage in the septum
Common Jewelry: Hoops/ Septum Rings, barbells

Both are common facial piercings and share similar aftercare needs, but the nostril sits to the side and suits nearly everyone, while the septum runs through the central cartilage and can be styled to flip up and hide when needed.

The MADAJ Nut Round Diamond Nose Piercing

Types

Nostril piercings are commonly worn with nose studs or small hoops or what we called nose ring. Double nostril piercing, with jewelry on both sides, is also an option for a bolder, more symmetrical look.

Sizing

The post gauge changes depending on the piece: 1.2 mm (16 gauge) for studs, 0.8 mm (20 gauge) for rings. Stud lengths run 5 mm, 6.5 mm, or 8 mm, secured with an internally threaded screw flat-back. Rings come in 6.5 mm, 8 mm, or 9.5 mm inner diameters, closed with a clicker.

Swelling is the main thing to plan around early on, so an 8 mm stud gives a new nostril piercing room to breathe for the first few weeks. From there, sizing down to 6.5 mm is common once things calm down, and an 8 mm ring becomes an option too if you'd rather switch styles at that point. Nose shape isn't one-size-fits-all, so your piercer is worth checking with before locking in a size.

MATERIALS

Thin skin, constant contact with makeup and skincare, air exposure with every breath, the nostril deals with more than most piercings do, and that's the case MADAJ makes for using nothing but solid 18k gold here. No plating to wear off, no other metals mixed in, just gold that's nickel-free and hypoallergenic in yellow, white, or rose. Set it with a diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, or black diamond, all hand-graded (G–VS for diamonds, AAA for colored stones) with a Certificate of Authenticity to back it up.