Nostril Jewellery

A nostril piercing goes through the side of the nose, usually near the lower crease of the nostril, and nostril jewellery includes studs, flatbacks and rings to suit it.

Standard vs high nostril jewellery

Types of nostril jewellery

• L-bend studs: a right-angled post that sits against the nostril.
• Nose twists: a curved post that curls inside the nostril.
• Flatbacks: a flat disc at the back of the post, used for both standard and high nostril piercings.
• Bendable and segment rings: a loop that sits around the piercing, worn once your piercing has healed.

Nostril jewellery materials

• Titanium: lightweight, implant grade and the better choice for sensitive skin.
• Surgical Steel: durable and can be used in a new piercing, though it can contain traces of nickel.

Should I choose a nose stud or a nose ring for my nostril piercing?

Nose studs and nose rings both suit a nostril piercing, so the right choice comes down to the style you prefer. An L-bend stud has a right-angled post that sits against the nostril, while a bendable ring forms a loop around the piercing. Rings are worn once your piercing has fully healed, unless our piercing specialists advise otherwise. Browse our full nose jewellery range if you want to compare styles across placements.

What gauge is standard nostril jewellery?

Standard nostril jewellery is 18G or 20G, in styles like L-bends, nose twists, flatbacks and rings. Matching your gauge matters because a post that's too thick won't fit and one that's too thin can move around. High nostril piercings use a different gauge, so check your placement first. If you're unsure of your gauge, our piercing specialists can check it for you in studio.

What is a high nostril piercing?

A high nostril piercing sits higher up on the nostril than a standard nostril piercing, towards the upper curve of your nose. It uses 16G jewellery, usually a flatback with an 8mm post. A flatback has a flat disc at the back of the post, which sits flush inside the nose. Standard nostril piercings use 18G or 20G, so the two aren't interchangeable. Check which placement you've got before you buy.

What should I do if my nostril jewellery feels too tight?

If your nostril jewellery feels too tight, don't force or twist it, and get in touch with our piercing specialists so they can check the fit. Some tightness can come from swelling, and a slightly longer post may give your piercing more room. Do not remove your jewellery during the healing phase, even if it feels snug. If you're thinking about going up a size or moving your placement, our guide to stretching a nostril piercing or changing placement explains your options. Soreness that doesn't settle is always worth getting checked.

What size nostril ring should I choose?

Nostril rings are typically 6mm to 8mm in diameter and use an 18G or 20G gauge. Your anatomy and placement decide which diameter feels comfortable, so there's no single right answer. A ring that's too tight can irritate your piercing, while one that's too loose can catch and move around. If you're unsure, our piercing specialists can help you choose in studio.

Book a piercing at SkinKandy

Not sure which nostril placement suits you? Book in with our piercing specialists via our piercing menu and we'll help you find your fit.