Yes, but only after fully healed. During healing, leave it down.

Septum Piercing Guide: Pain, Cost, Healing, and Aftercare

By the team at Multnomah Body Piercing · Updated March 2026 · 1861 NE Division St, Gresham, OR 97030

The septum piercing is one of the most popular facial piercings — versatile, can be hidden for work, and looks fantastic with a variety of jewelry styles. At Multnomah Body Piercing in Gresham, Oregon, septum piercings are one of our most requested services.

What Is a Septum Piercing?

A septum piercing passes through the thin membrane of tissue (the "sweet spot") between the bottom of the nasal cartilage and the tip of the nose. A properly placed septum piercing does not go through cartilage. Finding this sweet spot is critical, which is why you want an experienced piercer.

Pain Level

Pain rating: 4-5 out of 10
Duration: About 1 second for the actual piercing
Sensation: Quick sharp pinch, followed by watery eyes (a reflex, not from pain)
After: Mild tenderness for 15-30 minutes, then subsides quickly

$80

Includes implant-grade jewelry · 3-month guarantee · Downsizing included

Jewelry Options

Circular barbell (horseshoe) — most popular initial jewelry; can be flipped up to hide once healed
Captive bead ring — classic seamless look
Clicker rings — hinged decorative rings (once healed)
Retainer — clear or flesh-toned piece for hiding the piercing (once healed)

Healing and Aftercare

Septum piercings have one of the fastest healing times: 2-3 months initial, 4-6 months full maturation.

Clean twice daily with sterile saline wound wash
Do not touch, rotate, or flip the jewelry during healing
Be gentle when blowing your nose
Avoid swimming until healed
Do not remove jewelry until your piercer confirms healing

Can I Hide My Septum Piercing?

During healing (first 2-3 months): Do NOT flip the jewelry. Leave it in the down position.

After fully healed: You can flip a horseshoe-style ring up inside your nostrils as often as you like. This makes septum piercings ideal for work or school.

Common Myths

Myth: Goes through cartilage. Reality: Goes through the thin sweet spot membrane.
Myth: Extremely painful. Reality: Most rate it 4-5/10.
Myth: Affects your sense of smell. Reality: Zero effect on smell.

Get Your Septum Pierced

1861 NE Division St, Gresham, OR 97030

(503) 669-4191 · Walk-ins welcome Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat 12-6 PM

Septum Piercing FAQ

How much does a septum piercing cost?

$80 at Multnomah Body Piercing including implant-grade jewelry and a 3-month guarantee.

How painful is a septum piercing?

Typically rated 4-5 out of 10. Most describe it as a quick pinch lasting about one second.

How long does it take to heal?

2-3 months initial healing, 4-6 months full maturation. One of the fastest-healing piercings.

Can I flip it up to hide it?

Yes, but only after fully healed (2-3 months minimum). During healing, leave it in the down position.