Nose Rings: 9 Most Common Types of Nose Rings, Studs, and Chains

The world of nose piercings is far more complex than most people realize. Different types of nose rings and studs tend to be better suited to some piercings than others.

There are many unconventional ways to express oneself: unique choices of custom clothing, eye-catching jewelry, extravagant makeup, and so on. One of the most counterculture is nose piercing. 

What Does a Nose Ring Mean Sexually?

Ancient North African tribes used golden nose rings to signify wealth.

And in India, nose rings are related to sexual health, fertility and child birth. Therefore, women often wore nose rings in the left nostril, believing that it would ease menstrual cramping and make childbirth easier.

Nowadays, however, nose piercings are often viewed as being somewhat counterculture. Therefore, it is said that a nose ring does not have any sexual context.

Now, here's a bit about some of the more common types of nose rings and studs:

1. Types of Nose Rings or Hoops

1.1 The Most Common Nose Ring

Nose ring hoop 6mm 8mm 10 mm simple and minimalist $15.9, SHOP NOW.

Pros:

• They're less likely to become crooked
• There are lots of options ranging from simple metal hoops to ornately jeweled rings
• They usually remain securely in place

Cons:

• Complex hoops can be hard to close
• Thin hoops can be bent very easily

1.2 Horseshoe Barbells (Circular Barbells)

Titanium nose ring curved barbell horseshoe $18.9, SHOP NOW.

Circular barbells are the most popular choice among all types of septum rings. They have a curve that takes the shape of an arch with two balls on either end. You can go with a traditional round bead or opt for other shapes and accents.

These barbells are sometimes called "horseshoe barbells" because they look like horseshoes.

Pros:

• Barbell jewelry can be a great statement piece and can stand out
• The curved shape can make nose piercings more comfortable
• They are available in a very wide variety of designs

Cons:

• They may not be the best option if you’re looking for something subtle
• They also may get caught easily on items like clothing.
• They heal more slowly than studs
• They tend to be prone to migration or rejection

1.3 Captive Bead Rings

16 gauge captive bead nose ring made of implant grade titanium $19.9, SHOP NOW.

Captive bead rings (CBRs) are a traditional choice for a septum piercing. CBRs are a full circle with a bead closing the loop. You can replace the bead with a pearl, birthstone, or another unique style. They are popular, coordinating easily with other pieces of jewelry.

Pros

• CBRs are bold and trendy
• They are easy to use.
• They’re also less likely to get caught on clothing because of their closed design.
• They usually remain securely in place

Cons

• Captive bead rings can be very hard to close
• You may not enjoy it if you want a subtle piercing.

1.4 Septum Clickers

Diamond nose ring 16g titanium with CZ $22.9, SHOP NOW.

Septum clickers take the shape of a loop but have a hinged design that opens and closes. You unhinge the clicker, insert it through your nose, then close the hinge. Clickers may be a simple loop, have a dangling chain, or showcase a collection of gemstones. Septum clickers are easy to put in and look amazing!

Pros

• Septum clickers are comfortable
• They are easy to put in and take out with
• There are many designs to choose from
• They’re also less likely to get caught on clothing because of their closed design.
• They usually remain securely in place

Cons

• You have to securely click the jewelry closed to ensure it doesn’t fall out
• It may feel bulkier than other options because of the hinged design

1.5 Classic Nose Rings or Seamless Hoops

14K gold nose ring hoop seamless ring $89.9, SHOP NOW.

When shopping for nose piercing jewelry, you may come across “classic” nose rings or seamless rings. When they are inserted properly, they create a complete, closed shape. They may be a complete circle, or they may take other fun shapes like a heart, moon, or oval.

There is no bead or latch visible for a seamless look. They are typically just metal hoops, which is ideal if you're looking for something simple. They are the most minimalist among all types of septum rings.

Pros

• They are classic and timeless
• They offer a clean look without the need for additional hardware.
• They’re also less likely to get caught on clothing because of their closed design.
• They usually remain securely in place

Cons

• Nose rings may be too plain for your taste.
• Thin hoops can be bent very easily
• Seamless rings can be hard to insert at first
• You may need to be careful to avoid distorting the shape as you open and close the jewelry.

1.6 Straight Barbells

Piercing barbell internally threaded 14g 16g $18.9, SHOP NOW.

Barbells aren't really seen a lot in nostril piercings, but they are often used for more complex nose piercings like the Bridge piercing. A barbell is just a long metal bar with two ball ends.

Pros:

• They heal faster than curved barbells
• The barbell ends hold them in place securely
• The piercing itself is fairly easy to clean

Cons:

• Barbell piercings tend to be more painful than other piercing types

2. Nose Piercing Stud Types

Cute piercing with natural semi-precious gemstones titanium $25.9, SHOP NOW.

These are commonly used for nose piercings. Much like stud earrings, they have a straight bar. There is usually a small gem at the top. There are also curved versions that add a bit more security.

Pros:

• They heal relatively quickly
• They don't cause much discomfort when resting your head
• They aren't extremely noticeable

Cons:

• They can come out more easily than nose rings
• If not cleaned regularly, they can get infected

2.1 Nose Bone Studs

Nose bone stud with diamond titanium 18G 20G silver $18.9, SHOP NOW.

A nose bone stud looks like a straight stick with a decorative piece on one end, which stays on the outside of the nose and a small ball on the other end which has to be pushed into the piercing and stays in the nostril.

Many people like nose bone studs because they are easy to insert into your nose piercing.

2.2 L Shaped Nose Studs

20G L-shaped nose stud with a cross titanium nose piercing $18.9, SHOP NOW.

The L-shape nose stud is bent and shaped like an L, hence the name. Thanks to its shape, once inserted, it firmly sits against your nostril. 

2.3 Twist/Corkscrew Nose Rings

Corkscrew nose ring with round CZ different colors titanium 20G $19.9, SHOP NOW.

A corkscrew nose ring is made of a metal wire that is twisted into an odd shape, unlike normal nose studs or rings. The combination of straight and circular wires need specific care to be inserted without getting hurt.

3. Nose Piercing Chain

Nose piercing chain 0.5mm nose piercing chain $17.9, SHOP NOW.

Chains can be an eye-catching embellishment to nose piercings. Often, a chain will connect a nose ring to an earring. Some chains will connect each end of a Nasallang piercing across the bridge of the nose.

Pros:

• They have a distinctive look that can really make you stand out
• They're a great way to highlight piercings you already have
• You can easily alternate chains for a different look every day

Cons:

• They can easily snag on clothes, hair, etc.
• Heavier chains can pull on piercings and cause discomfort

Nose Ring Sizes

What gauge is a nose ring? The most common nose ring gauge sizes are 18G (1.0mm) and 20G (0.8mm).

However, piercers will often use a slightly larger needle (about 16G/1.2mm) to make healing easier. The larger hole allows for some swelling and prevents the healing from getting too tight as it heals.

That said, make sure to listen to your piercer! Experienced piercers will be able to recommend the right nose ring sizes to avoid rejection or unnecessary complications.

When Can I Change My Nose Piercing?

On average, you can replace your nose piercing jewelry in 4-6 months. This can vary depending on the piercing type, so be sure to check in with your piercer.

Recommended Materials for Nose Piercing Jewelry

Regardless of jewelry type, make sure to choose a high-quality material for nose piercings to avoid infections or adverse reactions. Here are some good materials to choose from:

1. Implant-Grade Titanium

Nose piercing clicker titanium septum ring 16G in gold and silver $22.9, SHOP NOW.

Titanium is an element that is completely hypoallergenic, so it's probably the best material for nose rings, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Implant-grade titanium is the purest form and will not change or corrode if it's exposed to skin or bodily fluids. Implant-grade titanium jewelry is durable, hypoallergic, and non-corrosive.

Price Range: About $10-$20.

Pros:

• Approved by the Association of Professional Piercers
• Won't cause allergic reactions
• Is scratch-resistant and won't fade

Cons:

• Not as valuable as gold, silver, or platinum
• Doesn't sparkle quite as much as other metals

2. 14K or 18K Gold

14K gold hoop with an opal pendant segment clicker nose ring $146.9, SHOP NOW.

If you're looking for a glittering, valuable metal for your nose jewelry, either 14K or 18K gold may be your answer.

It is also one of the best metals for nose rings that are highly recommended not only by piercing experts but also doctors. Its excellent inert quality makes it suitable for first piercings.

However, gold is a fairly soft metal, so it doesn't stand up to scratches and excessive wear. Compared to 14K gold, 18K gold is more prone to being affected by everyday use as it is softer and is closer to being pure 24K gold.

Both of these metals include other metal types in order to make them stronger. In order to avoid skin reactions, look for nickel-free metals.

Price Range: About $30-$200.

Pros:

• One of the most valuable materials
• Will not easily tarnish
• Offers plenty of sparkles
• Is easy to engrave or use to set stones

Cons:

• May contain non-hypoallergenic metals
• 18K gold in particular is not very scratch-resistant

3. Surgical Stainless Steel

Lots of new piercings are done in stainless steel. This material is affordable and typically doesn't cause reactions. Even surgical-grade steel contains small amounts of nickel that could cause allergic reactions in those with skin sensitivities. 

It is incredibly resistant to corrosion and will keep its shine for years.

If you're considering steel, 316L or 316 LVM steel is probably your best choice. Both names stand for the same surgical steel material, but the "VM" stands for"vacuum melt," or the way the steel is produced.

Price Range: About $10-$40.

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Common enough that you'll have plenty of jewelry choices
• Extremely durable and resistant to damage and corrosion

Cons:

• May cause reactions in those with nickel allergies
• Not considered as valuable as some other materials

4. Niobium 

Niobium is another material that could be useful to make nose jewelry as it is non-reactive, polymeric, and has a wide range of colors.

Conclusion

The world of nose piercings is far more complex than most people realize. We need to understand the most common types of nose rings, studs, and their pros and cons so that we can choose the ones that suit us the best.

Read More

Nose piercing: Everything that you need to know

Best metals for nose rings: Pros, cons, and prices

Nose ring sizes: A guide to finding the right measure

8 Types of Nose Studs: How to Choose and How to Take Them Out