Mantis Piercing: Everything You Need To Know

It's been a while since I posted anything about nose piercings, but they've remained a hot topic, especially unique styles like the Mantis piercing. 

This is a type you might not have come across before; it isn’t mainstream, but it has quite a following among piercing fans. So what makes it special? Let's break it down.

Fast Facts:

Position: Front of the nostrils (tip of the nose)

Cost: $40-$90

Pain: Moderate to high

Healing time: 4-6 months

Risks: Infection, rejection, migration, and scarring.

Jewelry: Flat-back studs, labret studs

What Is a Mantis Piercing

Mantis piercing (sometimes called front nostril piercing or forward-facing nostril piercing) is placed at the front part of the nostrils, closer to the tip of the nose rather than the side.

When both sides are pierced, it creates two symmetrical points that face forward — which is why some people also call it a praying mantis piercing.

Does a Nose Piercing Hurt

Most people describe Mantis piercing pain as a quick, sharp pinch repeated twice. The pain was about 3 to 4 points, which isn't too exaggerated. Anyway, the nerves in front of the nostrils aren't that sensitive, and it only took two hits.

How Long Does It Take a Nose Piercing To Heal

The forward nostril piercing takes 4 to 6 months, which is slightly longer than a standard side nostril piercing. Because the front of the nostril moves a lot, for example, when you're breathing or accidentally touching something, you need to be more patient. Spraying it with saline every day will help keep it clean and make you feel better more quickly.  

Potential Risks of Nose Piercing

It's mostly an infection. For example, if you touch it with dirty hands or don't clean it properly, bacteria can get in, and it might get red, swollen, and pus-filled. Also, if the piercer's not that good, they might hit some small blood vessels, you might bleed a bit, and you might get some little flesh bumps if the healing's not good.  

Aftercare for Mantis Piercing

Looking after your Mantis piercing or forward nostril piercing is pretty straightforward, but you've got to stick to it.

Just rub it with saline twice a day, and avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as they can be too irritating. Just a heads-up: don't press it down on your stomach when you're sleeping, and avoid wearing make-up until you're feeling better. Wear the jewellery you first started wearing for at least six months, and don't rush to change it.  

Mantis Nose Piercing Jewelry

Most people start with mantis piercing jewelry such as flat-back studs or labret studs. They were light and not easy to hook onto things. Then you can replace them with small hoop or small gemstone stud earrings, but they shouldn't be too big. Well, the hole is near the tip of the nose, so it's too big, it looks bad, and it's uncomfortable.  

Mantis Piercing VS. Austin Bar Piercing

A Mantis piercing is two nostril piercings in a row, right at the front of your nose.

An Austin bar piercing, on the other hand, uses a single horizontal bar through the tip of the nose.

Austin bar piercings are usually more dramatic and take longer to heal (around 9–18 months).