Nose Piercing Chart: Types, Placement, Pain & Healing
When people get their first nose piercing, they usually start with the nostril or septum. However, once they learn more about it, they realise that there are many more types of nose piercing than they ever imagined!
As you'll know if you've read my previous blog posts, there are actually many different types of nose piercing! Deciding which one to get can be difficult, and searching for them one by one can be a hassle, so we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you choose.
This post will help you understand all the different piercing locations, their associated pain levels and healing times, and which styles suit which locations — all in one place.
Nose Piercing Chart
| Nose Piercing Types | Placement | Pain Level | Healing Time |
| Nostril Piercing |
Side of the nostril | 3–4/10 |
2–4 months |
| High Nostril Piercing | Upper nostril | 5–6/10 | 6–9 months |
| Double Nose Piercing | One or both nostrils |
4–5/10 |
2–6 months |
| Same Side Nose Piercing |
Two piercings on one nostril |
4–5/10 |
2–6 months |
| Septum Piercing |
Soft tissue between the nostrils |
4–6/10 |
2–4 months |
| Austin Bar Piercing |
Horizontal tip of the nose |
7–8/10 |
2–4 months |
| Rhino Piercing |
Vertical through the nose tip |
8–9/10 |
6–9 months |
| Bridge Piercing |
Bridge of the nose |
9–10/10 |
2–4 months |
| Nasallang Piercing |
Through both nostrils + septum |
9–10/10 |
6–12 months |
| Septril Piercing |
Underside of the nose tip |
7–8/10 |
4–8 months |
| Third Eye Piercing |
Between eyebrows |
6–7/10 |
3–6 months |
Types of Nose Piercing
Is the chart of nose piercing types not detailed enough? Don't worry — we'll be posting more specific information soon!
Nostril Piercing
When people think about nose piercings, they usually think of nostril piercings. I thought the same thing – a classic style is always going to be popular!
It is located on the side of the nostril and is the most classic and foolproof type of nose piercing. Whether you prefer a small stud or a nose ring with a gothic style, it goes with just about anything.
If you've never had a nostril piercing before, it's usually the best option for you because it doesn't hurt as much and it's easy to heal.
Pain Level: 3–4/10
Healing Time: 2–4 months
Jewelry: Nose studs, nose rings, L-shaped nose studs
people trying their first nose piercing, or for those who like to change their look regularly.
Double Nose Piercing
As the name suggests, double nose piercings involve piercing both sides of the nose.
You can get piercings on both sides of the nose or just on one side if you like. The latter is often called "same-side nose piercings" and has become really popular recently because it makes the overall look more layered.
If you think a single-sided nose piercing is a bit ordinary, but you don't want something too extreme, this combination is actually just right.
Pain level: 4–5/10
Healing time: 2–6 months
Jewelry: Matching studs, stacked hoops
Septum Piercing
A lot of people think septum piercings hurt a lot, but that's not always true.
When it's done right, septum piercings are usually placed in the softer area below the nasal septum, rather than the hard bone. So, when people get it done, they often say, "Huh, it doesn't hurt as much as I thought it would."
One of the best things about it is that you can hide it, but still choose jewellery that stands out.
For instance, you can often find a horseshoe ring tucked inside your nose, which is pretty handy for people who work or go to school.
Pain level: 4–6/10
Healing time: 2–4 months
High Nostril Piercing
High nostril piercing is basically just an improved version of the nostril piercing. As the name suggests, this piercing is positioned higher than a standard nostril piercing – usually closer to the bridge of the nose – giving it a more "refined" look.
You know how some people like to mix and match different types of nostril piercings? Well, it's really popular to combine high nostril piercings with standard nostril piercings to create a "stacked look". This adds a gorgeous visual depth to the piece and really makes it stand out.
But, my dear, it's a bit more complicated than that. Because of its unique location, the piercing can be a little trickier to perform and might take a little longer to heal. Initially, you might only be able to wear studs, and it might not be ideal to start with a nose ring. If you're worried about pain, it's totally understandable.
Pain level: 5–6/10
Healing time: 6–9 months
Jewelry: Flat-back studs, threadless jewelry
Austin Bar Piercing
If you're into unique, off-the-beaten-path nose piercings, the Austin bar piercing is definitely worth checking out.
It goes across the tip of the nose without going through the septum, so it makes a statement and is best for people who already have piercing experience.
Pain level: 7–8/10
Healing time: 2–4 months
Jewelry: Straight barbells
Rhino Piercing
If an Austin bar is already bold enough, then a rhino piercing is basically the next level up (as you can see, each one is more niche than the last!).
It goes straight through the bottom of the nose and comes out just above it, making it look pretty futuristic and giving it a strong presence. You might find it a bit uncomfortable if you get a bit of swelling or discomfort now and then.
Pain level: 8–9/10
Healing time: 6–9 months
Jewelry: Curved barbells
Bridge Piercing
To be exact, a bridge piercing isn't really a nose piercing because it's actually located on the bridge of the nose.
But because it's so close to the nose, lots of nose piercing charts still include it.
Its most distinctive feature is how easy it is to spot, and its alternative style.
Just to let you know, it's a surface piercing, which carries a slightly higher risk of rejection. So, it's really important to find a reputable and professional piercer.
Pain level: 5–6/10
Healing time: 6–9 months
Jewelry: Curved barbells
Nasallang Piercing
If you're wondering what the most extreme type of nose piercing is, it's most likely the nasallang piercing. It goes into the left nostril, the nasal septum, and the right nostril all at the same time.
Are there three different spots on the nose? That's right – it's like getting three piercings done at the same time.
This is why it is often considered one of the most painful nose piercings. It takes a long time to heal, so it's not a good idea for beginners to try this right away.
Pain level: 9–6/10
Healing time: 2–4 months
Jewelry: Straight barbells
Septril Piercing
Septril piercing is less well-known than Rhino or Nasallang, but it's a hidden gem (like a blind box). It will come out from the bottom of your nose, and you will probably need to stretch your septum (the cartilage in your nose) first, so it may be a bit more expensive.
Pain level: 7–8/10
Healing time: 4–8 months
Jewelry: Small curved jewelry or plugs
Third Eye Piercing
A third eye piercing is a type of facial piercing, not a nose piercing.
It is located between the eyebrows and looks great. It is perfect for people who like futuristic, gothic, or cyber styles.
But with a surface piercing, the area may take longer to heal, and there is a higher chance of it being rejected. Don't try this unless you're fully prepared!
Pain level: 6–7/10
Healing time: 3–6 months
Jewelry: Curved barbells
We might not have all the nose piercing styles out there, so if you have any suggestions, feel free to let us know in the comments!