The nose ring, recently seen as a sign of rebellion amongst youngsters holds great value and significance. While most corporate jobs, especially in the West, view nose rings as an unprofessional form of jewellery, it is quite the opposite in India. For many Hindu brides, a nose ring is an integral part of the wedding day attire. It’s called the Nath and is worn on either the left or right nostril, depending on where the bride hails from. Nose rings are a part of Indian culture and have been for a long time.
Although, today, the decision to pierce her nose is a woman’s alone. Many women and men have got nose rings for the sake of fashion. And if you are looking to get one, here are some important guidelines to go through.
Finding The Right Position For The Nose Ring
Nose rings in India can be worn on the nostril, septum (the cartilage between the nostrils) or the bridge of the nose. However, most commonly, nose rings are worn on either the left or right nostrils. Typically the left nostril is favoured because in Ayurvedic medicine, the left nostril is associated with the female reproductive organs, and a piercing in that position is thought to make childbirth easier as well as lessen the amount of menstrual pain.
What Jewellery Material Is Used For A Nose Piercing?
One must always select a metal that is less likely to trigger a reaction and is best suited for piercing. These include titanium and surgical-grade steel. Jewellery is one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis presents as a red, itchy, scaly, swollen rash.
A Few Skin-Safe Metals Include:
- Titanium is always best for first-timers as it is nickel-free and has less risk of developing an infection. This should be the first nostril piercing for everyone.
- Surgical Steel is good, affordable and looks great, but can also contain trace amounts of nickel, which may lead to an allergy or infection.
- 14-karat gold looks great and is perfect for new nose piercings. Make sure that it’s solid gold or white gold. Most gold-coloured piercings are made of surgical steel and are only gold-plated.
- Silver is a good choice once your nose piercing is fully healed. Make sure it’s real .925 Sterling Silver and that it comes with rhodium plating. Without it, it tarnishes rather quickly.
Proper Aftercare For Your Nostril Piercing
- Use antibacterial soap to thoroughly clean your nose and hands before performing aftercare
- Use one of the fun-sized Salt Spray Solutions up to twice a day for the best results
- Use a thick tissue such as a kitchen towel, or a certified swab to apply the solution
- Gently twist your piercing as it is being cleaned so the solution soaks right through
- Don’t wash more than twice a day, and avoid any thick creams or alcohol solutions in the first 2 weeks as they may cause irritation
- With nostril piercings, you should do this for as long as 6 months, even after it has healed, as you don’t want it closing over or getting infected.
Selecting A Ring For The Occasion
1. Studs
Nose studs essentially go with every shape and are the best form of nose jewellery. If you have a nose that falls on the broader side then you can go for a stud that has a stone in it. If your nose is narrow then you can go for a smaller stud. A nose stud looks good on any type of attire, Indian or Western. And they look well in a professional or intimate setting. Nose studs are a no-brainer and an effortless form of jewellery.
2. Hoops
Nose hoops look better if you have a narrow long nose. Hoop nose rings come in various sizes and designs. Any Indian attire styles well with a hoop nose ring. For a little oomph, you can select rings with diamonds and pearls. They make perfect jewellery for special occasions and marriages. Silver nose rings look good on Western as well as Indian attires. You can also purchase fake nose rings or nose pins. They work just as well as the real deal, without the pain. But since it is a press-on, they can get lost.
3. Septum Rings
A septum nose ring certainly is for women who want to make a statement when they enter a room. They are the ‘rockstar’ look. Septum rings look good on any type of face shape. All you really need is the fashion sense and confidence to carry it. They come in various designs, some very prominent and some simple and delicate. Septum rings can be matched with any Indian or Western outfit!
4. Bali
This is a heavy type of jewellery so one needs a prominent nose in order to carry it. That is the reason it is worn moreover on special occasions significantly on traditional attires. A bali or a nath is mostly worn at grand celebrations like weddings.
5 Nose Jewellery Options To Wear At Your Next Celebration
1. Classic Silver Nose Pin
This simple and dainty nose pin from Jaypore can be worn with any outfit. It is tiny and effortless, hence the perfect nose stud for a beginner.
2. Peora Stone-Studded Nose Ring
A tiny diamond hoop nose ring, from Ajio is perfect for when you want to switch it up and change your nose stud. This diamond nose ring can add shine to your entire look and make you the star of the evening.
3. Ethnic Kundan Embellished Gold Plated Nath
For the times you want to stand out during the celebration, but not look extra, this kundan nath from Voylla is perfect! The kundan and pearl embellishments add to the charm of this nose ring, with a brilliant striking yellow gold plating.
4. Oxidised Silver Septum Nose Pins
This round nose pin suits any face type and adds a bohemian vibe to your whole ensemble. This is also a press-on ring from A Local Tribe, so you don’t need to get scared and get your nose pierced!
5. Bridal Gold-Plated Stones Studded Nath With Pearl Chain
This nose ring from Ajio is the dream bridal nose ring! Its delicate look matches the pearl and gold pairing. And the intricate designs make a beautiful and precious piece to have at your wedding.
