Have you got a new nose piercing? It looks absolutely amazing, and you may feel like a diva. But wait! What is this additional and unwanted accessory on your nose? A little bump of skin appearing on your skin as it tries to heal – a nose piercing bump?
What’s happening, and what can you do about it? Don’t worry! We have got a complete solution for you. Let’s discuss the nose piercing bump that so uninvitingly comes. Moreover, we will walk you through some of the best home remedies to counter this problem.
Let’s get into it.
Table of Contents
Why Does a Nose Piercing Bump Form?
Even though you get a nose piercing on purpose, it’s still a cut/wound to your skin. Therefore, you may expect some initial side effects.
It’s common to feel red, swollen, and sometimes even a little uncomfortable after having your nose pierced. In a few days, these symptoms should be going away. However, a few things might happen if you discover that a bump has developed around your piercing, either within or outside your nostril.
Why does it happen? Well, there could be many reasons, such as:
Why Does a Nose Piercing Bump Form?
Here are a few common reasons why a nose piercing bump may form:
Allergic Reaction
An allergic reaction occurs when your body doesn’t agree with the material used in the jewelry.
Most nose piercings use materials like surgical steel, gold, or titanium, which are generally well-tolerated.
However, if you’re allergic to nickel, a common component in some jewelry, it can lead to irritation and a bump formation. Switching to hypoallergenic jewelry can often resolve this issue.
Infection
Infections can happen if you don’t take proper care during the healing process.
Touching your piercing with dirty hands, using harsh cleaning solutions, or exposing it to polluted water can introduce bacteria. An infected nose piercing may result in redness, swelling, and the formation of a painful bump.
Cleaning the piercing with a saline solution and avoiding touching it with dirty hands can help prevent and treat infections.
Granuloma
A granuloma is a small, reddish bump that forms due to an overgrowth of tissue around the piercing. It is often a response to irritation, trauma, or infection.
Prof. Dr. Babar Hussain Khan, a renowned ENT specialist with 30 years of experience, says granulomas can happen due to improper jewelry, excessive jewelry movement, or an allergic reaction.
You should first address the underlying cause to treat a granuloma. It may involve changing the jewelry, avoiding excessive movement, and practicing proper cleaning.
Keloid
Keloids are overgrowths of scar tissue that extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound.
While keloids are more common in individuals with a genetic predisposition, they can also form as a result of trauma to the piercing site.
Nose piercings can sometimes trigger keloid formation, especially in individuals prone to developing them.
Tips to Deal With Nose Piercing Bump
You can easily avoid a nose piercing bump if you take proper care. Here are some care tips to help you go through this bumpy phase:
Wash Your Hands
Before you touch your nose piercing, make sure your hands are clean. Use mild soap and warm water to scrub away any dirt or germs.
Clean hands reduce the risk of introducing bacteria to your piercing, keeping it germ-free and healthy.
Clean, Clean, Clean
Regular cleaning is key!
Use a saline solution – you can buy it or make your own by dissolving a pinch of sea salt in warm water. The saline solution works best at wound cleaning and debris removal from the wound site.
Soak a clean cotton ball or pad in the solution, then gently clean around the piercing. Do this 2-3 times a day to keep things fresh.
Your Jewellery Deserves a Bath!
Your jewelry needs cleaning as well!
Mix a bit of mild soap with warm water, and let your jewelry soak for a few minutes. Gently scrub with a soft brush to remove any buildup.
Clean jewelry not only looks better but also reduces the risk of irritation.
Hands Off the Piercing – Don’t Pick
Resist the urge to pick or play with your piercing. Picking can introduce more bacteria, cause irritation, and delay healing.
Let your body do its thing – healing is a superpower!
Keep the Jewellery in Place
Avoid unnecessary movement of your jewelry. Excessive wiggling or rotating can irritate the piercing. Once it’s in, let it settle. Less movement means less chance of bump trouble.
Use the Magic of Sea Salt Soak
Sea salt is your piercing’s BFF.
Mix a pinch of sea salt in warm water – not too hot! Soak your nose in this solution for a few minutes. It helps soothe irritation and promotes healing. It’s like a mini beach vacation for your nose!
Try a Tea Tree Oil Solution
Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial properties. Dip a cotton swab into a tiny amount of diluted tea tree oil and apply it to the bump.
Remember, a little goes a long way. Use a little tea tree oil to clean your nose skin.
Suggested Read: Tea Tree Oil Benefits
Use a Chamomile Compress for Chill Time
Brew a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool. Soak a clean cloth or cotton pad in the cooled tea, then apply it to the bump as a compress. Chamomile has calming properties, offering a soothing solution to your irritated piercing.
When to See an ENT Specialist for Nose Piercing Bump?
Seeing a doctor for a nose-piercing bump is advisable when you experience complications. Here are some situations in which it’s a good idea to consult with an ENT specialist:
- Persistent or Worsening Bump: If the bump gets worse despite care and home remedies.
- Signs of Infection: Redness, swelling, increased pain, warmth, and discharge (especially if it’s yellow or green)
- Unusual Changes in Color or Texture: An unusual color (such as dark red or purple) or changes in its texture, like excessive hardness or softness
- Development of Additional Symptoms: Fever, chills, or a general feeling of unwellness
- Persistent Paint: Ongoing pain or discomfort around the piercing site that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Difficulty Breathing: If the bump affects your breathing through your nose or causes respiratory issues.
Remember, if you’re ever unsure or concerned about the health of your nose piercing, it’s always better to take precautionary measures and consult with a healthcare professional or an ENT specialist.
You can consult the best ENT specialists in Pakistan via Healthwire’s platform.
