The Bridge Piercing is a unique, trendy and visually striking. If you’ve been thinking about getting a bridge piercing soon, read on to understand expected pain levels, jewellery options, and compatibility with glasses.
What is a bridge piercing?
A bridge piercing is a type of body piercing that is located horizontally through the skin on the bridge of the nose. It is positioned between the eyes, in the small area of skin and tissue that connects the upper part of the nose. The piercing creates a striking and unique look, as it sits perpendicular to the natural lines of the nose and face.
Why anatomy matters in bridge piercings
Depending on your individual anatomy and the thickness of the tissue on the bridge of your nose, a bridge piercing may or may not be suitable. It is best to consult with your piercer on the day of your appointment so they can assess your anatomy and recommend appropriate jewellery.
Bridge piercings carry a higher risk of rejection and scarring, particularly if your bridge anatomy does not have sufficient tissue padding. Adequate, pliable tissue across the bridge of the nose is essential to minimise complications and support proper healing.
What Jewellery can I have for a bridge piercing?
Curved Barbell:
A popular choice due to its shape, which follows the natural contours of the nose bridge and helps prevent the jewellery from protruding outward. Curved barbells are often best suited to clients with a more curved nose profile.
Please note* the balls from the curved barbell may sit lower on the bridge of the nose.
Straight Barbell:
Straight barbells are another commonly used option for bridge piercings. They sit evenly across the bridge of the nose and are typically chosen based on anatomy, skin thickness, and piercer assessment to ensure proper placement and healing.
Both styles are available in a range of high-quality materials, including surgical steel, titanium, and other biocompatible options.
The Bridge Piercing Procedure
Here’s what to expect during your bridge piercing appointment at Essential Beauty:
- Consent & ID: You’ll complete a digital consent form and show valid ID.
- Jewellery Selection: Choose from basic jewellery included in the price, or upgrade to gorgeous designs like double gem barbells, or crystal styles.
- Marking the Placement: Your bridge is cleaned with isopropyl alcohol, then your piercer marks the entry and exit points. You’ll stand in front of a mirror to approve the placement.
- The Piercing: A sterile clamp is applied, and a single-use needle pierces the skin. A 14-gauge autoclaved barbell is inserted immediately.
- Aftercare Advice: Expect slight redness, swelling, or bleeding – this is completely normal and subsides quickly with proper care.
How Painful is a Bridge Piercing?
Pain levels are different for each individual and will depend on the person’s pain tolerance, but it’s generally agreed upon that the bridge piercing can be quite intense due to its unique location. A bridge piercing is about an 8/10, as it is placed horizontally through the skin on the bridge of the nose.
Pro tip: Stay hydrated and try to relax before your appointment. Our Beauty Therapists are always happy to answer questions or help ease nerves.
Healing Time & Aftercare
Bridge piercings can take 12–24 months (or longer) to fully heal. Healing depends on your general health, lifestyle, and how closely you follow aftercare.
Aftercare Tips: to avoid migration and infection.
- Weeks 1-2 clean twice daily with Sterilear Step-1 Piercing Spray.
- Weeks 3 and onwards Clean twice daily with Sterilear Step-2 Piercing Spray.
- Avoid sleeping on your piercing.
- Do not touch, twist, or knock your jewellery.
- Avoid tight clothing that may rub.
- Treat piercing bumps with Calm Piercing Bump Treatment Dots.
Remember, piercings heal from the outside in. Even if it looks healed on the surface, the inside may still be tender for months.
Downsizing & Jewellery Changes
Once healing progresses, you’ll need to downsize your jewellery. Long bars can catch on clothing and increase the risk of migration. A piercer can help assess when it’s safe to change – usually around the 12-20-week mark for a shorter bar, with full jewellery freedom after complete healing.
Signs you may be ready to downsize:
- No redness or discharge.
- No pain around the piercing site.
- At least 12-20 weeks (3-6 months) have passed.
We always recommend coming back to the salon for your first changeover so your piercer can check healing and insert the jewellery for you.
Migration & Rejection
Because bridge piercings are surface piercings, migration (when the jewellery moves closer to the skin’s surface) is a natural risk. Factors that may contribute include:
- Wearing long jewellery for too long.
- Sleeping on your piercing.
- Trauma from knocking, pulling, or over-cleaning.
If you notice jewellery moving, shrinking, or rejecting, visit your local Essential Beauty salon for assessment.
Bridge Piercings and Glasses
For individuals who wear glasses, you may be wondering about the compatibility of bridge piercings with eyewear. The good news is that with proper care and some minor adjustments, you can certainly wear glasses without causing harm to your freshly pierced bridge.
During the healing process, it’s important to be cautious with glasses to avoid unnecessary pressure on the piercing site. Choosing lightweight frames can help reduce discomfort and minimize the risk of irritation. If possible, consider wearing contact lenses during the initial healing period, allowing the piercing to settle without any additional pressure.
Once the piercing has healed, you can continue wearing glasses comfortably. However, it’s wise to make a few adjustments. Choose frames that sit higher on the nose, avoiding direct contact with the piercing. Additionally, cleaning your glasses regularly with an alcohol-free solution can prevent bacteria buildup and potential infections.
Ready to Get Your Bridge Pierced?
Are you ready to get your bridge pierced? Look no further than your local Essential Beauty salon! Book online or give them a call to secure your appointment. We can’t wait to see you and create the look you’ve been after.