What side do you put your nose ring on?

Nose Rings > Body Jewelry FAQ > What side do you put your nose ring on?
by All Piercings Staff Writer

A) Either. There is no fixed rule as such that your nose ring can be put only on the left or only on the right side of your nose. It is a matter of personal preference and you can choose either of the two sides, left or right, to put your nose ring on.

The scientific term for the side of the nose is “ALA”. It is made up of cartilage enclosed by skin. Appropriate jewelry for the ala is studs (plain, jeweled, circular, flat, spiked etc) and rings in 18 or 16 gauge.

Alternate areas to have a nose ring:

1) Septum – The septum is the bottom of the nose. It is the midline part of the nose which is mostly hidden and only showing on the underside. Piercing can also be done on this part of the nose. Appropriate jewelry for the septum includes:

· Straight barbells – size 14g
· Circular barbells – 14g, 3/8 to ½ inch internal diameter.
· Septum retainers – size 14g

2) Bridge – Bridge is the top of the nose. The topmost portion of the nose where it meets the forehead is known as the Bridge. If the bridge is pierced, the needle passes through the skin but not through cartilage. Appropriate jewelry for the bridge of the nose:

· Straight barbells – 16g or 14g thickness.

The global aspect:

In some cultures (such as Indian) a nose ring is put on a particular side. In North India it is put on the left side and in the south it is put on the right side of the nose. If you do not have any such cultural or religious restrictions, then you can put your nose ring on any side that is more comfortable for you.

Whichever area of your nose you choose to get pierced, make sure that the piercer DOES NOT USE A PIERCING GUN. Yes, you read that correct – NO PIERCING GUN. You may have heard of piercing guns being used, but under no circumstances should you allow one to be used for your nose piercing. Only a new, sharp, sterile needle made for body piercing should be used. Gun piercing is neither a secure nor a professional method for body piercing. Do not let anyone talk you into getting your nose pierced with a piercing gun. If the place you go to only does nose piercing with a gun, then do not walk but run out of that place!

A nose ring can be put on any side without much fuss and little pain. It is the healing process which is cause for concern because of all the bacteria and germs that are present in the nose. Blowing your nose during the healing period can be a challenge but not impossible. Thus it becomes necessary to be extra careful of a nose piercing to avoid infection, irrespective of the side you decide to put your nose ring on.

Disclaimer: The materials on the AllPiercings.com web site are presented for informational purposes only, and are not intended as a substitute for professional dental / medical advice, and accordingly you should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider.