Tongue piercing

Tongue piercing

by Nasrina Parvin Khan

Tongue piercing is a kind of oral piercing which is getting popular among the ‘generation-y’ just after eyebrow piercing. Modern adventurous teens are trying to get this piercing for a distinct identity. It is one of the most adventurous as well as sexy body piercing.

ABOUT BODY PIERCING

Body piercing jewelries have
attained a popular place in Today’s
fashion Scenario. To worn a body
piercing jewelry a person should
have a pierced hole in the
particular part of his/her body.


tongue piercing
Body piercing is a form of body art.
Usually people get pierced and worn
body piercing jewelry to give shapes
and enhance the beauty of the parts
of their body and get an attraction.

The style of body piercing is a year
old tradition and comes from tribal
society at the beginning. There are
various kinds of body piercing in
the tribes, like-ears, nose, cheeks,
throats etc. Body piercing have a
cultural significant in many
countries and communities.

TONGUE PIERCING

Tongue
piercing is a kind of oral piercing
which is getting popular among the
‘generation-y’ just after eyebrow
piercing. Modern adventurous teens
are trying to get this piercing for
a distinct identity.

HISTORY OF TONGUE PIERCING

There is a history associate with
tongue piercing. There was a ritual
of tongue piercing in both Aztec and
Maya cultures. Priests were piercing
their tongue and then either drawing
blood from it or passing rough
cords, designed to inflict pain
through the hole. But the permanent
or long term tongue piercing was not
practiced in Aztec or Maya cultures.

Permanent or long term tongue
piercing is the part of contemporary
culture. The origin of this piercing
is associated with “Gauntlet”, the
first professional body-piercing
studio in the United States,
formerly located in Los Angles,
California. This piercing is
practicing since the 1980s.

PLACEMENT OF TONGUE PIERCING

Tongue PiercingA tongue piercing is a type of
piercing which is done through the
tongue. It leaves a hole in the
tongue in the middle of the tongue.
A single piercing in the middle of
the tongue is most common form of
this piercing, but multiple piercing
are also possible.

The placement of the tongue piercing
is more difficult than others. In
time of tongue piercing the position
of muscles, veins, nerves and the
webbing below the tongue, known as
the ‘frenulum’ should be taken into
account. To reduce the risk of
damage of teeth and gums, the
position of jewelry must also be
taken into account. Off-center
piercing can be more risky and
complicated because they pass
through more muscle tissue.

So, the best position of tongue
piercing is the middle of the
tongue, slightly towards front of
the mouth, avoiding the two veins,
which run along the lower sides of
the tongue.

RISKS AND PREVENTION

To get a safely tongue piercing; it
should be performed by a
professional from a recognized
piercing studio. It is dangerous for
health to do piercing at home. The
piercing should have done by an
approved sterile body-piercing
needle.

If the piercing has done by correct
equipment, it is not as painful as
might be expected, like most others
piercing.

There are few risks in getting
tongue piercing.

Piercing with a non-sterile needle
can cause of liver disease called
Hepatitis-B, which is spread through
person-to-person contact with
infected blood or other body fluids.
So, all piercing should be done
professional who follow health and
safely guidelines that prevent the
spread of the disease.

If the vein is hit, prolonged
bleeding can occur. But a qualified
pierce should have no problem
avoiding blood vessels. Few bleeding
is normal. A medical professional
should be contacted if the bleeding
cannot be controlled.

Tongue piercing jewelry can cause
damage of teethe and gums. But it
can be reduce by proper placement
and using proper sized jewelry.
Avoiding of playing with the
piercing will helpful.

TONGUE PIERCING
HEALING TIME

Usually tongue piercing takes 4-6
weeks to getting heal. There is a
misconception that the tongue
piercing is more infection prone and
takes longer times than others to
heal because of the dirty nature of
the mouth. But the fact is that the
highly effective antiseptic nature
of saliva helps the pierce both to
protect from the infection and
promote healing. So the tongue
piercing heals faster than other
piercing.

AFTERCARE REGIMEN

Pierced TongueEvery piercing is infection prone as
is tongue piercing. A little amount
of soreness after tongue piercing
can be expected to last up a day. A
large amount of swelling may occur
3-7 days afterwards in case of
tongue piercing. It can be extremely
uncomfortable. So, it is important
to follow some special aftercare
regimen in case of tongue piercing
to prevent infection and heal
faster. But the aftercare of tongue
piercing is more complicated than
other piercing.
* Avoid the playing with tongue
piercing and don’t touch the tongue
for several weeks.
* To keep the area clean use an
antiseptic alcohol free mouthwash
2-3 times daily, as the
alcohol will irritate piercing and
slow healing.
* Rinse the pierce area with warm
salt water.
* Rinse the tongue eating after
something.
* Avoid eating hot, spicy foods,
taking alcohol, hot drinks, smoking
during the healing
process.
* Eat small amount of soft foods.
* To prevent infection use a
sterilized jewelry.
* The swelling must be shortening by
using a longer piece of initial
jewelry. Later, this can
be replaced by a shorter piece of
jewelry to prevent the healed
piercing from damaging of
teeth and gums.
* Clod water, sucking on ice will
help to migrate the swelling and
soreness.

After the tongue is fully healed one
can goes back to his/her regular
routine.

TONGUE PIERCING JEWELRY

Girl with tongue piercedTongue rings and tongue barbells are
tongue-piercing jewelries. But the
tongue barbells are far better than
the rings because of the environment
of the mouth. The size of the
jewelry and comfort are important
due the action of tongue (like-
speech, eating, kissing etc).
Usually tongue piercing has done
with straight barbell style jewelry.
The beads at the end of the barbell
can be made of many decorative
materials.

POPULARITY

Tongue jewelry is visible only when
a person talks to other. It can make
an exotic, adorable impression with
your words. Today’s generation is
ready to accept the challenge to be
adventurous about any fashion trend.
So, tongue piercing is getting
popular among them.
Due to these reasons it is becoming
widely accepted. Singers, Films and
TV personalities are also following
this trend. Mel B of ‘Spice
Girls’ has a tongue pierce which
indicates her adventurous
personality.


Home > Jewelry &raquo

 

PIERCING INFECTIONS

by Sheweta Dhanuka

Piercing is highly susceptible to infection in case of ignorance during the healing process. Even after the healing is complete few safety measures are still must to be practiced for the entire life. This article explains about all possible facts and information about piercing.

Body piercing is very stylish and contemporary. Women as well as men are getting their ear and nose pierced since thousands of years but according to the most modern fashion almost all the organs of body are open for this trendy modus operandi. Teenagers fascinated by the hottest craze and style are seen with their eyebrows, lips, navel and tongue pierced. It could be multiple rings or studs around or inside the body part. Other than teens many adults are enthusiastic about this unique art. They associate piercing as their individual style statement that describes their respective personality as fashionable and modish.

This new style is indeed only one of its kind and coolest mania in fashion at this moment in time. However, it might be quite painful if apposite care and precautions are not taken after piercing any of the body organs. It is highly susceptible to infection in case of ignorance during the healing process. Even after the healing is complete few safety measures are still must to be practiced for the entire life. This article explains about all possible facts and information about piercing. It starts from types or piercing, symptoms of infection, reasons & solutions and precautions. It would positively accustom the reader with this inimitable art on body.

Various Body Piercing Infections

Navel Piercing Infections

It is also called as button belly piercing. This piercing is the most difficult and painful piercing. It is the most sensitive body organ and extremely prone to the piercing infection. Once it is pierced it can get infected any time. There are high probable chances that soon after the piercing there is no infection but it might happen months or years after. The wound at navel requires longest time duration to heal amongst all other body piercing. It varies from one person to another but on an average it could be between 4 months to 2 years.

Simple cotton clothes are idyllic for the healing process while fabrics that create moisture or friction should be avoided as it might cause infection. Individuals who had their navel pierced must be very cognizant while wearing waistbands or belts. If precautions are not taken while wearing these accessories then it could easily get caught in the piercing and damage it. Such incidents surely lead to terrible pain and finally the infection.

Tongue Piercing Infections

This piercing requires maximum care after the healing. Regular use of either herbal or antiseptic mouthwash twice or thrice in a day is must to stay away from infection in future. After every meal mouth should be clean thoroughly and ensure that none of the food particle gets stuck in the jewelry piece. Also ingestion of alcohol and spicy food need to be minimized. Even oral contact with any other person should be avoided. Healing time for tongue piercing is between 20-25 days.

The piercing jewelry used must be small and light weight else it might damage the teeth. In case of swelling or redness to bring down the pain ice could be used. During the healing the tongue should be gently brushed. As mouth is full of bacteria, some oral antibiotics are ideal for quick healing.

Lips Piercing infections

It is relatively least common amongst all different types of body piercing. Upper lip as well as lower lip could be pierced. It is healed faster than the tongue piercing only when precautions are taken with respect to food, liquids and smoking. Spicy food, alcohol and smoking need to be minimized as much as possible during the healing time. Regular use of homemade saline solution enables an early recovery and wards off the chances of infection. After every meal one should mouthwash with this solution. It can be prepared by mixing 1/8 tsp sea salt in one cup warm water. Appropriate jewelry should be selected else wrong jewelry selection could damage teeth as well as gums.

Ear Piercing Infections

The safest body organ with respect to piercing is ear. It requires minimum care and precautions. In country like India 98% females and 25% of males have their earlobes pierced at the gold smith shop or through gunshot. Chances for any type of infection are relatively rare. Healing is complete within the short span of 15-20days. During this period the piercing must be clean with the mild soap and antibiotic ointment should be applied after bath and before going to bed. Also the pierced jewelry either ring or stud must be rotated or moved forward & backward respectively. This would avoid the jewelry piece getting tucked in the dry pus.

The pierced jewelry should be worn for the first 30 days. Once the healing is complete, it can be changed. Initially lightweight gold earrings should be worn then after any metal earring can be selected as desired. Always ensure to wear some jewelry piece at least for the first one and half year. As in this time period piercing tends to get close. Piercing done apart from earlobes is more painful and takes longer time to heal. Some people get the ear pierced from top to bottom. They should be extra careful with these places, as it is more delicate than the earlobes.

Nose Piercing Infections

Nose piercing is gaining popularity is west at a very rapid pace. It takes longer time for healing. The first 20-25 days are very important as near the pierced hole one lump might be formed. With hot fermentation the lump reduces and is evaded. The probability of infection is less but if the gunshot piercing is done then there are more chances of infection. One more important aspect with nose piercing is lubrication of the piercing. That is, coconut oil and lavender oil should be applied at least once in a day so that it remains soft.

Eyebrow Piercing Infections

It is a simple piercing same like ear and nose piercing. However, one cannot change the jewelry frequently as in ear. It is not highly prone to infection as navel piercing but general piercing precautions and care is must be taken. This piercing is more common in west than other parts of the universe.

Symptoms of Infections

Many innocent people think infection and allergy is same. This is not true. Infection is different from allergic reactions. The symptom of allergy is burning sensation around the piercing. Some typical kind of irritation is experienced as if the jewelry is being pulled out. No matter whether it is allergy or infection the doctor must be consulted without delay. There are three main symptoms of infections viz. swelling, redness and discharge.

Swelling

The area around the piercing blows out like a balloon. It might be painful too but it looks very different than the normal. The swollen skin becomes very sensitive. Slight touch to that skin causes pain.

Redness

As the name specifies, the piercing and the area around it becomes red. Redness is clearly identified being different from the skin colour. More the red the skin worse is problem.

Discharge

It is said to be discharge when yellow colored semi-liquid comes out from the piercing wound. It is not fully liquid like water but partial. It is referred as pus. Sometimes it could also be light green colour. Pus is discharged when healing is incomplete and urgently requires some medication.

Reasons and Solutions of Infection

There are few common reasons due to which infection is caused. These are very careless acts done by a common person. It is mentioned as careless because people are not cautious of their act. These reasons that are the foremost root of infection are discussed along with the solutions to avoid the same or overcome the undesired problems.

01 : The main reason for piercing infection is the jewelry material. Skin of each individual is different so it reacts differently to the piercing material used. People who are allergic to jewelry material bear higher chances of getting the infection. The piercing material is often plated with brass that causes allergic reactions leading to infection.
01 : Merely high surgical grade 14K or 18K yellow gold should be used in order to avoid the infection caused due to jewelry material. Good quality stainless steel, niobium or titanium are other options. Silver and brass must strictly be avoided in every respect.

02 : In case partially healed piercing is damaged then it gets prone to infection. Also the healing process returns back to the stage one.
02 : The piercing should not be rubbed hard with any towel or napkin. It should always be done gently. When the jewelry is pulled out of the pierced hole, then the individual should go back to meet the person who did the piercing or meet the family doctor. Immediate action is very crucial to be taken especially with belly button, lips, nose and tongue piercing.

03 : Superfluous cleaning of the piercing might also cause infection. Excess washing destabilizes body’s ability to fend off infection. Further, complete ignorance towards cleaning undoubtedly causes infection.
03 : It must be clean only 2-3 times everyday. Hands should be washed before touching the pierce every single time. 1/2 teaspoon sea salt mixed in water must be applied with the soaked cotton ball 3-4 times at single moment. It cleans the dried bits that might result in inner dent. It could also be cleaned with soap. Only soap consisting antibacterial agents should be used. Apply it to the piercing jewelry, turn around the same through the pierce 2-3 times with the soft hand and wash it painstakingly with clean water. After cleaning wipe it fully with a clean soft towel/tissue. Finally, apply moisturizer containing negligible scents and animal fats. It should be ensured that no soap is left behind while cleaning else it would cause the irritation.

04 : Often people experience some irritation at the piercing. The irritation happens to be so uncontrollable that individual can’t resist touching it that instant without washing hands. Consequently it leads to infection. The reason for irritation could be either one of the following:1. Soap or moisturizer used contains irritating harsh substance.
2. Body organ that is pierced is unable to withstand the weight of piercing jewelry with respect to shape and size. It could be too big or fancy with unwanted beads.
3. Excessive force on the pierced area while sleeping, improper sitting or lying position and son on.
4. The residual water, soap, ointment or moisturizer while cleaning.
5. Disproportionate movement of the jewelry around piercing. On the contrary jewelry getting stuck and not moving.
04 : Irritation caused due to any of these reason could be solved by understanding the same and resolving it with the effective step. Like right kind of soap or moisturizer should be used. Small lightweight jewelry should be always selected for piercing. Simple the jewelry better it is, without any additional beads or gems. Cleaning precautions are ideal to be practiced. And last the most important; if the jewelry is stuck then antiseptic cream must be applied.

Precautions for avoiding infection

* Only the professionals who are trained to pierce step by step and follow the health & safety guidelines should do piercing. Self piercing or getting it done from a friend/relative is absolutely brutal as it may cause some sever infection or life threatening liver disease known as viral hepatitis.
* Irrespective of the any organ pierced, always sterile needle must be used else it might cause infectious atrocious disease called as contracting hepatitis. This disease spreads when infected blood or fluid in minute quantity comes in contact with the skin.
* Intake of proper balanced nutritious diet and multivitamins mainly vitamin C and zinc. Garlic in food items too is good healing component.
* Dirt free cloths must be worn. Also ensure the beading is neat and clean.
* Always have stress free mind and feel happy at heart & mind.
* When initially the jewelry at the any piercing is to be rotated, use lukewarm water and then do it.
* One should not remove the jewelry from the piercing else it would close especially button belly, tongue, lips and eyebrow. Ear and nose jewelry can be changed after a year or so.
* In case of any symptoms of infection as described above are experienced the one should immediately see the doctor, as these are the signs of infection. Sometimes, oral antibiotics are prescribed that must be strictly followed.
* Strong scents, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol and animal fats present in soaps are injurious therefore must be avoided totally. It goes with moisturizer as well.
* Lukewarm dry compresses on the piercing alleviate irritation and gives relief to the pain. Any hot liquid or hot clean towel in a Ziploc bag placed on piercing for 1-12 minutes once in two hours proffers a huge liberation from pain and irritation. The reason for relief is steam from hot water/cloth increases blood circulation, reduces the swollen lump and dilutes the pus gathered around the piercing inside the body. Small thing to take care is that, little wetness that appears due to hot padding must be wiped off instantaneously with the clean tissue.

These are few important aspects to be cautious about else the healing is long-drawn-out. The healing is faster and complete if and only if the individual takes proper care and precautions. It is always said that prevention is better than cure. Therefore, it is essential to be careful of all these defensive actions.

Body piercing is the amazing art. It could define one’s personality in an impressive manner. Every single thing in this entire universe has two faces one good and other bad. Similarly, body piercing too has a not so good face that is infection. One can deal with it positively by following all the mentioned advices and instructions. With little efforts one could enjoy fashionable art on their body for the rest of the life.

LABRET PIERCING

by Ms Nandita Ray

Labret or Mao is a form of body piercing started by the ancient tribes. Many parts of the body is pierced, nose, ears, belly button, eyebrows, breasts and lips. Piercing of the lips is called labret piercing and is usually done on the bottom lip. Some people prefer to call all body piercing as labret piercing.

Labret Piercing Introduction

Beauty has become a culture. It has been a conscious and well developed art, cultivated through history and is not ‘skin deep’, as often thought. Enhancing physical beauty is an accomplishment, which as time reflects, is ageless and imperishable. Subdued or garish, fashion is always a part of one’s personality. Apart from adorning the body with jewelry, the practice of piercing various parts of body and implanting ornaments has been widely used by ancient tribes. Piercing was once very popular with the people of yesterdays, it is slowly but steadily making progress and becoming a part of the fashion industry to day. Making resurgence in the early sixties it was the hippies and the punks, who wanted to break the boring and starchy traditions of staid life, shocked people by piercing nose, lips, and belly buttons. To day piercing has become a craft that is practiced by skilled professionals. Jim Ward, Doug Molly and Fakir Musafar are considered pioneers of Body Piercing Renaissance. Jim Ward opened the first Body piercing studio,’ Gauntlet’ in 1975, in Santa Monica. He also started the first Piercing magazine called Piercing Focus International Quarterly. This was the only source of information regarding piercing. In fact Jim also gave certificates of ‘Master Piercer’ to accomplished artists of this trade. Elayne Angel was the first recipient.

Labret Piercing Facts

labret piercingLabret or Mao is a form of body piercing started by the ancient tribes. Many parts of the body is pierced, nose, ears, belly button, eyebrows, breasts and lips. Piercing of the lips is called labret piercing and is usually done on the bottom lip. Some people prefer to call all body piercing as labret piercing. However if one goes by the meaning of the word ‘labrum’, then it is lip piercing since it is the Latin word for lips. Dictionaries clarify the meaning of Labret piercing “an ornament inserted into a perforation in the lip’ or Anthropology/Webster dictionary explains ‘A piece of wood, shell, stone or other substance worn in perforation of the lip or cheek by many savages’. Labret also called lip ring, lip plug or lip plate is inserted into the lips to alter the shape by some tribes. Dubbed an activity of the youth, traditional labrets were used to enhance beauty of the face by inserting a saucer like disc made of clay to spread the lips, after slitting it. This was practiced by many tribes like the Mayans and the Aztec, the Dogon of Mali, the Nuba of Ethiopia, the Mokololo of Malawi and the African Polcot tribal girls. Lip or labret piercing are also worn by the Nunivak tribes of North America. Some tribes in India wore labrets while upper labret piercing was unique to the tribes of Chad.

The Aztec and Mayan men wore labret made of gold to indicate their social status. The Makololo tribes of Malawi wore circular solid lip discs for beauty and wedding rites. Some African tribes wore them for religious reasons, some to ward off evil and keep harm at bay like the Nuban and Dogon tribes. Some Amazonian tribes wore them to denote their status, age and wisdom. The Nunivak tribes of N. America wore modest piercing just for decoration. Some wore it to show a new phase of their life, like puberty or adolescence or newly acquired marital status, power or virility or express a continuity of a particular way of life. The higher castes wore beautiful labrets made of gold and shaped like a serpent or embedded with stones or jade or obsidian.(Obsidian is a kind of natural glass like substance which is produced by the rapid cooling of molten lava). Some wore labrets made from walrus ivory, bone, wood, shell or colored cloth. Naturally all organic!

Simple Labrets do not change facial structure at all. But some do, like the wooden circular discs that are inserted in the lower lip or some times in both. The plug changes not only the shape of the lips but its own form too and becomes a real plaque. Lip plates are a form of body modification, practiced by some tribes. In order to protect the young girl and show her to be under a man’s protection, it is a wedding ritual and it is the husband who begins this physical change of her lips by inserting a blade of straw. The lips slowly begin protruding from the face completely altering the look. To some it would look awful. To some, like the men from the Makolo tribe encountered by Dr. Livingstone, it was ‘beautiful’.

Lip plugs or plates or pelele (in Malawi) or Tenteli (in Mayan) were worn for different reasons, religious, ceremonial, matrimonial orbeautification. To day it is worn for enhancing physical pleasure and for fashion. It is quite common to see a young person with a metal piercing. It holds no bar. Young highly qualified individuals, teenagers or young married couples have no hesitation to get piercing done. Many employers are debating on upgrading the dress code since many educated young adults are sporting this look. In a study conducted by a dermatologist Anne Laumann of Northwestern University, and published in June 2006, in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, the figure of young Americans sporting tattoos and metal piercing is growing. 27 year old Colleen Harris, a librarian holding multiple masters degrees, proudly displays her arms covered with tattoos without reservation. This primitive art of piercing, which dates back to 5,000 years ( as discovered in a mummy that old whose ears were pierced with huge plugs) has come into full bloom in the modern world. Body coloring and metal piercing is trendy and reflects a carefree attitude.

The process of inserting a labret is pretty simple. The lip is pulled or held away from the mouth with a clamp and a hollow needle is pushed in. The needle is inserted from inside the mouth and the labret which is at the end of the needle is placed in the opening and gently locked. The piercing takes hardly a few minutes. It is marking the right spot that takes up a whole lot of time. Marking and choosing the right place is crucial to the successful insertion and quick healing of the piercing.

Lip piercing can be placed anywhere around the mouth, the actual lips are usually avoided. Upper lips are pierced with a small stud. This piercing is more for style. While the lower lip piercing depends on the reasons for the piercing. There is lip ring; labret, vertical or horizontal lip piercing and these names indicate the place where the insertion is done.

Lip Ring

Lip Ring can be placed right in the center or slightly off centered. This way the jewelry has no contact with the gums as it goes through the bottom lip.

Labret

Lip pierced with a simple stud. It too can be placed centered or off center. The flat disc remains within the lips while the decoration/stone remains outside.Vertical Labret: – passes through the center of the bottom lip and shows below the bottom lip. It sticks out between the two lips and thus it is slightly curved.

Horizontal Lip piercing: – is a horizontal bar put on the lower lip through the soft red and sensitive part of the lips and is rarely done.

Low Bret: – is just the lower labret.

Vertical Low Bret: – the vertical low Bret is when the piercing is done from inside the mouth. It starts between the teeth and the lower lip and comes out from the lower edge of the jaw line and is seen outside.

Lip Plates: – large lip piercing stretched to its maximum so that it can be worn flipped out.

Madonna/Monroe: – as the name suggests it a piercing done on the exact spot where Marilyn Monroe had her famous mole. This style was started by Madonna who had a piercing placed similarly.

Medusa/Philtrum: – goes straight through the center of the upper lip and is perpendicular to the tissue.

Snake Bites: – when two lower lip piercing is carried out on the two opposite sides of the mouth. Rings or studs are worn.

Spider Bites: – this includes two piercing on the opposite ends of the lower lip along with a stud in the center.

The labrets are made from surgical steel, gold or silicone. Only the best quality materials are always used and are machine made or hand crafted. The shapes depend on their utility and ornamentation and the style one is looking for. Selection of the Labret should be done carefully and with great consideration. One has to keep in mind its long time use and the ‘pros and cons’ of the insertion. There are many designs to select from. A brief summary of the huge array of designs available: –

Studs

Can be made from gold or surgical steel or silicone. Simple barbell or a stud having a diamond or any other stones affixed at the top or just a ball, or it can have a hedgehog top which is a spiked ball with numerous spikes sticking out. This is always made from silicone. It can be simple colored silicone stud with a round top. The tops could be multi colored or have a bead on it. It can be glow in the dark type or have crystals. The Stud can have an arrow or spiked top. Butterfly, dragonfly, dolphin, skull or curved claws are also available. Cylinder, atom or rainbow colored studs is available. They are all usually push in Labrets.

Lip Ring

Also called lip plug or lip plate. There are various types of lip rings, like the slave labret ring, captive bead lip ring, acrylic captive lip ring, segment captive bead ring or the simple ring lip labret. There is the “D” shaped ring, dice captive ring, cat’s eye captive ring , UV ball captive bead ring and star, square or round gem captive rings can be got.

Spiked labret

Spiked labrets with arrow like top, made of surgical stainless steel or gold or silicone/acrylic,, tear drop spike, hexa spike, black titanium spike in various sizes, hedgehog spiked labrets with acrylic top in various colors, there is a world of such spiked labrets. One has to patiently go through a number of sites to get one of that is the most appealing.

There are Monroe studs or hard core “disturbed” lip rings available, atom labrets, horse shoe barbell labrets, flat back talon labrets, labret claws, slave flat back labrets for the enslaved look. There is also hand carved labrets made out of bone or horn available. These are organic. Labrets with logos, symbols, phrases, and flags can be ordered to specification.

Health Issues associated with Labret Piercing

The style that one chooses depends on individual taste and wants. Getting a part pierced is not all hunky dory. It needs careful research and consideration for the simple reason that a foreign body is going to be implanted in a part that might reject it or it might lead to some health problem. The most common problem is infection. Cleaning of the wound needs care and attention. Use of saline water is recommended.

Drinking fluid in the initial stage or when the wound is a day or two old is prudent. Avoiding spicy or hot food is advantageous.

Damage to the teeth and the gum is quite possible. This happens if the piercing is not properly placed or the jewelry worn is not proper. Besides due to constant friction the gum might erode.

Infection during healing and or piercing may lead to hepatitis, HIV, Tetanus, Bacteria or yeast infection.Damage to a nerve or excessive bleeding might result due to incorrect piercing.

Allergy to the material used in making the labret.

Chipped or broken teeth may result or the labret may prevent teeth from being X rayed or treated or cleaned.

Thick scars can be formed due to infection.

Therefore the need to select the right piercing studio is very important. A visit to the studio is essential and a careful examination of the following facilities should be kept in mind: –

– How good or experienced is the piercer.
– The professional piercer should be free of infectious diseases. No  wounds should be on his body.
– He should be using sterilized gloves, gauze, needle and the room should also be free of germs.
– Autoclave steam process should be used to clean the jewelry.
– Surgical mask should be worn.
– The skin should be cleaned with a surgical cleaner before piercing.
– Read their brochure and instructions thoroughly.
– Question your doubts and have them ironed out.

One can never be too careful! It is useful to keep these guidelines in mind while thinking of getting a piercing done. They will stand you in good stead. Happy piercing!

BARBELL EARRINGS

by Nasrina Parvin Khan

Barbell style jewelry has a contemporary history. This fashion was popularized by Jim Ward in the 1970s, founder of Gauntlet (The first body-piercing studio in the United States) in the contemporary society. But he was not the only claimant of all the credit for it..

BARBELL EARRINGS INTRODUCTION

Earring is one of the most traditional body-piercing jewelry. An earring is a piece of jewelry which is mostly worn through a hole pierced on earlobe and sometimes other locations on the ear such as rook, tragus or across the helix. Usually earrings are made of metal. These also can be made out of bone, plastic or similar hard materials, precious stones, glass and beads. Nowadays, this traditional jewelry is an integral part of fashion for both women and men. Though typically the women all over the World wear them. We can’t find out a single woman whose dress up can be complete without a pair of earrings. Earrings give a finishing touch to one’s look and personality. Ear piercing among males has also become popular in North America and Europe. Males of other parts of the World are also trying for earring as fashion accessories.

Various kinds of earrings are available in the fashion market. Barbell earring is a variety of earring, which is worn by both genders. But it is most popular among the male.

BARBELL EARRINGS FACTS

The idea of barbell jewelries as well as barbell earrings came from the barbell, which is used for weight lifting. Actually barbell is a bar with adjustable weight at each end. Barbell jewelry has a similarity with the weight lifting barbell.

A barbell earring is a straight piece of metal with a ball or bead on each end. One ball or bead is permanently fixed and the other screws on and off. Barbell earring is also known as stud earring. The specialty of this earring is the appearance of floating on the ear or earlobe without a visible point of connection from the front side.

HISTORY OF BARBELL JEWELRY

We can find out several designs of barbell jewelries, which have contemporary origin. But tribal people used simple, straight barbell jewelry. The Dayak of Borneo notably used these. Barbell style jewelry has a contemporary history also. This fashion was popularized by Jim Ward in the 1970s, founder of Gauntlet (The first body-piercing studio in the United States) in the contemporary society. But he was not the only claimant of all the credit for it. Actually he was introduced to barbell style jewelry by a tattooist and piercer from Frankfurt, Germany named Tatto Samy.

TYPES OF BARBELL EARRINGS

barbell jewelryThe ancient simple straight barbells modified with time and get a modern outlook in the contemporary age. We can divide barbell earrings in different types, such as: –

* Internally threaded barbells- These barbells have smooth ends with receiving threads tapped into the end of the bar. In this jewelry, the bead has a receiving tube machined into it with a threaded post extending from the center. Internally threaded barbell earrings have become the most common variety due to much less likely to cause damage and irritation at the time of piercing. It is more expensive than other because of its structure.
* Externally threaded barbells- in these barbells the post of the bar has threads at both ends to allow beads with receiving threads to be attached. When the jewelry is inserted or removed, externally threaded barbells tend to irritate the piercing. So, this barbell has become less common.
* Curved barbells- these barbells have a curvature. It is mechanically identical to the straight barbell except its curvature. The curvature of curved barbells range from slight curve to spiral to circular. As earring curved barbells are uncommon, but it is mostly used in navel piercing.
* Surface barbells- in these barbells the bar has a pair of 90-degree bends, in the same direction, to allow the jewelry to be used for surface piercing.
* Circular barbells- circular barbell is also known as horseshoe barbell for its shape. They are used for every piercing including earrings. They have resemblance with ball closure rings, except a larger gap, a permanently attached bead at one end and a threaded bead at the other like barbells. But it is much easier to use than ball closure ring.

MATERIALS & DESIGNS OF BARBELL EARRINGS

Barbell earrings can be made out of any metal, which is appropriate for making body-piercing jewelry. Silver, gold, platinum, titanium, surgical steel etc are the few example of metal, which used in barbell earrings. Teflon or tygon are used for flexible barbells.

The design of barbell earrings depends on the design of beads or balls. There are wide variety of design and appearance of the beads. Vast majority of the beads are available simply in spherical design. Though every kind of shape is used in bead, like cubes, triangles, cylinders, cones, disks and so on.

RANGE OF BARBELL EARRINGS

Wide range of barbell earrings is available in the fashion market. There are precious, semi-precious and cheap ear barbells for all class. You can choose any one, which is fit, in your budget.

Most safe and comfortable barbell earring is BioFlex (BioFlex is a transparent steam, sterilized medical grade plastic, ultra light, flexible. It is adjustable in length using a simple cutter blade) ear barbell. This is suitable for ear cartilage, tragus and ear lobes. BioFlex barbells with plain or jeweled balls and minimum 26mm lengthen bar are available. The size and shape of balls can be different with one’s choice.

Externally threaded Titanium bent barbell with 1.6mm 14G US gauge, surgical stainless steel ear barbell, surgical steel multi threaded jeweled ear barbell for multiple ear piercing with 1.6mm gauge, 9ct Gold ear barbells with 1.6mm gauge, 9ct gold circular ear barbells with 1.2mm/1.6mm gauge, plain or jeweled titanium ear barbell with 1.2mm/1.6mm/2.4mm gauges etc are the example of some popular barbell earring in the latest fashion scenario. PTFE bar with various kinds of balls is also very popular. PTFE ear bars are equally suitable for fresh or healed piercing and can be safely used for ear lobes and cartilage. PTFE bars can be set with titanium balls, plain or jeweled surgical steel balls and other kind metal balls. The length of the PTFE bars and the length, size and shape of the ball and color of the jewel can be varying.

Now it is your choice what you will pick for you. But it is sure that all these barbell earrings will give your ear piercing a stunning look.

WHOLESALE BODY JEWELRY BUYING GUIDE

by Nandita Ray

Smithsonian Craft show in Washington DC, The American Craft show in Philadelphia or the Contemporary Craft’s market in Santa Monica or San Francisco attract numerous artists and these are smart places to get new ideas and to get familiarized with the newest trends and to develop contacts.

Whole Sale Body Jewelry Buying Guide

Shakespeare wittily wrote “Tis plate of rare device and jewels, Of rich and exquisite form, their values great”. Who can dispute the wisdom in his words? Precious jewelry is worth its weight in gold. Literally. Man in love with his form has always found ways to enhance its beauty. What better way than donning beads and baubles? Jewelry which has been a part of human existence has matured along with him. Today it is not exclusively a woman’s domain. It now forms an integral part of a man’s attire too! It is a natty and a smart look one projects when a stud, earring, necklace or a lip ring sits perkily on his self. It is not considered effeminate. This has led to a spurt in jewelry business. Businesses big or small are into jewelry vending. For entrepreneurs it becomes a challenging task to find the right sources and acquire information as they venture into this segment of marketing. To make it easier for them here are a few tips. However it is always prudent to investigate further.

Wholesale Jewellery

wholesale body jewelryBuying in bulk straight from the manufacturer and selling it at wholesale prices to retailers is called wholesale buying. These retailers sell through their stores, online stores or through auction sites. Buying and selling from the comfort of home or office cubicle without stepping out, is the trend. With Information just a tap away, it has become easier for people to inspect, research and locate the exact piece of jewelry or item they want. Online stores and their like are not only bringing malls and stores within the confines of your home but making buying easier too! Whether it is a simple nose stud or an expensive canary diamond, one can buy or sell through such stores. A good example is EBay, which has been a huge success. Actually a lot of information can be garnered in this manner and the latest articles can be viewed and examined easily. Sometimes, many stores do not have all the newest creations. Buying in bulk and online is inexpensive and profitable for wholesalers and jewelry dealers.

Wholesale Body Piercing Jewelry

The newest wrinkle in town to adorn the body is the belly and lip jewelry, which is inserted through a pierced hole. There are many types of body piercing jewelry. There is jewelry for the face, belly, lip, nipple, ear, eyebrow, navel, tongue even sensitive parts of the body. They are worn for decoration or for enhancing bodily pleasures. Choice is individual. There are studs, danglers, rings, bar bells and plugs. It can be plain metal or stone studded or spiked or designed. The sizes vary. The metal used is vast too! Gold, silver, titanium, steel, acrylic, stone or horns are used. The list is endless and variety is astounding. It is fashionable to sport a dangler from the belly/navel or have a labret sitting pretty on the lip. It has become the latest fashion statement in the USA and the need to stand out is pushing people to the extreme. A craze that is difficult for some to follow or understand. However to many it makes good business sense to push this fad to its limits since it is a hot selling item. Whether it is a nose pin, a lip stud or a belly ring or an ear plug, it is a red hot item and it sells easy.

Guidelines for buying in bulk or wholesale

It becomes a difficult task to buy in bulk if one is not conversant with the dos and the don’ts. Here are some guidelines which will make buying simple and smooth. Many questions haunt the mind and few answers found in black and white. However, extensive research is always fruitful since no plan is fool proof.

Question and doubts confront a first time buyer, especially regarding how to go about setting a new business. If you are already selling from a home based business or a retail store and you want to increase your products and buy in bulk from a wholesaler, how to approach the thought and put it in action. If you are selling from an auction site or e bay and want to buy in bulk then how do you contact the right people. If you need to drop ship or blind drop what are the precautions you need to keep in mind. This article tries to addresses all these questions.

Who can order wholesale body jewelry? Most sellers can order in bulk provided you have the infrastructure and the financial power to carry it to its culmination. What are the basic requirements for being able to order in bulk? Any established seller with minimum three employees can order wholesale. How does one get information on wholesale jewelry? To gather more information on wholesale jewelry, membership to some related organization is helpful. Visiting numerous sites absolutely a must.

Some established online stores do not require such membership fees or any minimum purchase. Finding the right source for all your bulk order is a difficult job. If you are new to the scene trust no one, especially middlemen, who may promise the lowest price but it may turn out to different. Visit as many sites as possible. Monstersteel.com is a popular site while Internet mall.com provides a list of 18,000 companies which offer services and products through the internet.

One must read the testimonials posted on the sellers site by customers and this will give you a fair idea regarding the company. Some buyers recommend a trip to Canal Street and NYC. Try and locate buildings placed in narrow alleys and dark streets, where actual manufacturers operate from. In this way you eliminate the middle man and unnecessary costs. There are rooms in these buildings that are stacked with items. You have to browse through them to locate what you want. The prices are very low. What you sell for say 40$ on the internet will be about 4$ here according to a buyer. Some suggest that the best place to find a good wholesaler is on forums, Wholesale shows, auction and trade sites, fair and exhibitions.

Smithsonian Craft show in Washington DC, The American Craft show in Philadelphia or the Contemporary Craft’s market in Santa Monica or San Francisco attract numerous artists and these are smart places to get new ideas and to get familiarized with the newest trends and to develop contacts.

If one can find a dependable and capable supplier who can help you develop and build up capacity then you have made a good beginning. Remember time and steady supply is what you want. Your supplier should be dependable. Develop a friendly relationship with your supplier. PR that is Public relationship is crucial for harnessing advantages from your seller. If you cannot find the whole seller you are looking for put experts to help you find the right one. Hire a personal team of sourcing agents. Most of them find wholesalers that meet the member’s requirements.

Join the Wholesalers Catalog.com and similar sites. Buying in bulk always saves money.

Overseas wholesale suppliers

Be extremely cautious while dealing with overseas wholesale suppliers. This is because there no other way to contact them except through internet. Some overseas supplier may send items that might not be packed properly. Some items might be damaged. Incorrect items might also be sent much to your dismay. Items that are tacky and cheap looking are sent and they do not resemble the photograph posted on their site. Returning such items is a laborious process and time consuming.

Plan and strategies

Work on a well developed plan. Detailed and well defined. Read forums and blogs to help develop your strategies. Plan your sale. This must include innovative ways to sell your products. Keep reviewing your plan. Infuse, innovate and generate sharp selling ideas. Reading news and updates gives you and insider’s view of the latest selling features, promotions and information that will help you to build up your business. Follow the simple time tested strategies used by eBay’s most successful sellers.Advanced selling programs and techniques can help you grow. Tap into the e Bay’s host of resources. You can also find out what is in demand and get a preview of the latest by tapping into eBay’s merchandising calendar. The marketing ploys used in selling wholesale jewelry are the same as in retail stores.

Photographs

Photographs plays a very important role internet selling. A clear visual is far more tempting than plain words. Have your items tastefully photographed and displayed in your site. This will fetch you good bids and help you sell easily. Purchase a scanner to get detailed photographs of your items. Make the photographs speak. Each and every detail should be captured for the customer to see the item clearly. Beware some sellers use photographs from other manufacturers and sometimes they display old photographs. You end up with products that do not match the photograph. Buyers should read the complete item description. If the information is not clear cut and detailed you must contact the seller about this. Unique details of any piece will enhance the salability of that item. This is very important and you must keep this aspect in forefront if you are a beginner. Inferior photographs may save money initially but in the long run they harm the business.Do not forget to analyze the feed backs about the site.

Finance

The trickiest aspect of the business and the most important facet that keeps it moving. Do the calculations diligently and regularly. You must begin with a happy financial backing. Be prepared to spend if you are about to set up shop for the first time.
Be conversant with the difference between mass produced and individually packed products and their costs. Be prepared to pay up front when you buy. Sometimes you have to buy a fixed amount. Tribalectic Jewelry site is a good place to get some neat financial bargains.

Look for ‘discount programs’ that help you save as you build. Contract manufacturing is also a neat idea. Inspect and find items that you like and could sell easily. Work out and suitable price per item with you seller so that each party can make a decent profit. It is beneficial to sell an item before paying for it. This system works as ‘interest free loan’. Negotiate for an extended payment terms. However nothing is free therefore the buyer has to offer something in return, which is usually buying a fixed number of items or displaying the dealer’s items.

The term’2/10, net 30 is an oft used term. This simply means that the full payment is to be done within 30 days of the invoice. Another pointer if the buyer makes the payment before 10 days then he can keep 2 percent of the total bill. Ask for bulk packaging not individual packets. Meet a number of dealers and compare their individual terms, and settle with the best. Learn as much about the product as possible before you place the order.

Learn how to upgrade your company’s image by enhanced product at no extra cost. Co-op advertising is another way to increase your profits. This involves putting up an advertisement for the manufacturer. Half of the cost of the advertisement is paid by the manufacturer. Most important do not get carried away by sales talk. Do comparison buying. This will trim your unnecessary expenses. Special deals, close outs, liquidations and below the whole sale prices can be got from around the world. It requires investigative research. Keep in mind the most important part of any business, maintaining a healthy cash flow.

Drop Shipping for body jewelry

Is the buzz word especially for entrepreneurs. This is because one can run a business without a huge investment. This method has been in vogue since the Sears and Roebuck catalog day’s way back in early fifties. The arrangement is simple. The manufacturer on receiving an order from the retailer, directly ships the product to the customer. This is drop shipping. A part of the profit is kept back by the retailer. This is a clever way of doing business since one does away with stock and stock checking. No shipping overhead required and no need to buy shipping software. No UP/USPS counter delivery and no need for UPS/USPS account fees.

Immediate shipping and your customer doesn’t have to wait for long. Besides an early shipment means a jump start on sales before any deadline. Buy the inventory after you make the sale. And you don’t get stuck with dead inventory. You can buy drop shippers list from e Bay or buy the book “Drop shipping Revealed E book’ to get all the information on drop shippers. There is always a 30 day Guarantee refund or exchange. Some drop shippers do not want a first time buyer’s scrutiny or credit check up. Some do not require US citizenship to sign up for their drop shipping program.  A one time fee is levied by some drop shippers, while some require a “Refundable trust Fund account’ which is as low as 50$ to start the delivery. This is because a minimum balance is needed to process your order. For the “Million dollar Drop’ some want an annual member ship fee. Some even offer a free web page if you sign up for this plan.

There is another system which is called Blind Drop. In this arrangement the customer gets the item delivered in a packet that has your company’s name and return address. The existence of the wholesaler is non existent. This is an economical way to start your business.

Domain Name

Some Drop shippers offer domain names for sale since one needs a domain name to start a new business. This will be your store front that is your E commerce site. It is essential to register your domain name in order to do internet commerce. In order to start selling click on the web site link and save pre made web pages with all the information like the stock number, photographs and descriptions. Then edit the pages and type in your prices and put them in your web site. And then you are ready to go.

Tools for the trade

One needs to get conversant with the tools used in the trade, especially measuring the body jewelry accurately. The two most helpful tools are the gauge wheel also called the American Standard wire gauge and the dial caliper. They measure body jewelry accurately from 30 gauges to 0 gauges. The dial calipers are good for measuring fractional decimal and millimeters. It is useful to have one which has the conversion table etched on it. Some also help you read the measurements especially if you are a rookie at it. Many varieties are available. Buy a sturdy one since it will last longer. Use it with care as it might scratch the surface. Brass calipers are cheap and the jaws get worn out pretty fast so go in for a sturdier one even though it might be expensive.

Autoclave

This is a term that implies sterilization of the body piercing jewelry. This sterilization process is done under pressurized steam or autoclaving with Ethylene Oxide. However for body piercing jewelry steam sterilization is the correct method. Sterilization with Ethylene Oxide is hazardous to health. Autoclave sterilization is FDA approved and is used by surgeons too. Make sure the products are not heat sterilized nor pressure cooker sterilized. Iodine may discolor gold jewelry if autoclaved in bags with heat indicators. Double sterilization always works well.

Jewellery

Colors used in jewelry may harm the body and therefore make sure that the colors used are safe. As Ruth Winter expresses ‘it is now generally accepted that all chemicals penetrate the skin to some extent and many do in significant amounts”. Plastics may contain dioxins which is harmful for the body. Make certain that the plastic used is absolutely safe. Jewelry that is too heavy may cause the piercing to either migrate /change position or rejected. Cheap jewellery means thin gauge and this in not advisable as it can get torn out from the body by getting entangled. The gauge must not be very thick so that it does not endanger the soft tissues. The diameter and the length of the jewelry should be chosen carefully. Jewelry that has been bought in bulk should be carefully handled and properly stored. Jewelry that has been worn or returned or replaced should be re sterilized. Display prominently Healthy Body Piercing Information. Know the medications and the dos and don’ts of this process. Also a Piercer’s Guide is useful.

Further Investigative research is always recommended.

EYEBROW PIERCING CARE

by Pooja Chakrabarty

Being hip is everything nowadays, and one of the ways to be with the in-crowd is by having a strategically placed stud on your eyebrow. Yes, eyebrow piercing is the way to go these days as the good old ear and nose piercings become passé and boring. You cannot afford to be dull anymore. Hence, the art of body piercing is slowly shifting from the realm of the earlobe to the arch of the eyebrow.

Eyebrow Piercing Care and Issues

Being hip is everything nowadays, and one of the ways to be with the in-crowd is by having a strategically placed stud on your eyebrow. Yes, eyebrow piercing is the way to go these days as the good old ear and nose piercing become passé and boring. You cannot afford to be dull anymore. Hence, the art of body piercing is slowly shifting from the realm of the earlobe to the arch of the eyebrow.

The Risks Involved in Eyebrow Piercing

But there is more to getting those eyebrows pierced than just figuring out what kind of a ring would look good. Before you actually decide to go in for a pierced eyebrow, make sure that you are well aware of all the risks that are involved. Here are some of them:

  • You could be prone to infections and allergies.
  • Your nerves might get damaged in the process.
  • If your piercer does not use a sterilized needle, you could contract HIV, tetanus, and even hepatitis.

eyebrow piercing pictureBut if you go to a good piercing studio and insist on their using sterilized needles, you could be spared from many of these risks. However, you will still be susceptible to infection if you do not clean the area properly. In fact, once you come out of that piercing studio with the silver ring or diamond stud adorning your eyebrow, it will be up to you to make sure that you take care of that new eyebrow piercing.

Choosing the Jewellery for the Eyebrow Piercing

One way in which you can ensure that you are relatively free of infections is by choosing the correct kind of jewellery. Remember that you are making a cut in your skin and this will need to heal. So you cannot afford to be a cheapskate when it comes to buying suitable jewellery.

You could go in for implant grade stainless steel jewellery. People do go in for silver rings, but this may not always be a good idea. This is because silver tends to tarnish and this could lead to permanent darkening in the area around the piercing. Gold is one common choice that is very safe when it comes to getting a piercing. Titanium is one of the less popular choices, though you could seriously consider it. But if you are looking to save money, stainless steel is the cheapest option.

Taking Care of That Eyebrow Piercing

Do remember that it is going to be some time before that eyebrow piercing of yours heals completely. Six to eight weeks is generally how long it takes before you can finally start flaunting different styles of eyebrow rings. But you are going to have to treat it with care. Talk to the person who does the piercing for you. Find out what are the best ways of taking care of your new eyebrow piercing. (S)he should be able to provide you with some great tips.

Here are some of the most common tips that should be followed once you have a diamond stud adorning your eyebrow.

  • Clean your hands before touching the piercing. This will be imperative especially during the healing period. You certainly do not want the germs from your hands to cause an infection in the area around your eyebrow piercing.
  • For the first few days after getting the piercing, you are going to have to turn your earring round within the piercing on a regular basis. This will help make the piercing permanent and you will run less risk of it getting blocked. I have been told that it helps to steam the eyebrow area before starting with this exercise.
  • Buy some anti-bacterial soap with which to clean the piercing. Ideally, you should be doing this twice a day. You could also get an anti-bacterial ointment and apply it on the eyebrow area from time to time.
  • A lot of people also apply a disinfectant on the portions of the ring that are inserted into the eyebrow.
  • It is common to have some discharge drain out of your eyebrow piercing. Do not panic if this happens. But make sure that the jewellery you are wearing allows the draining to take place.
  • Also, don’t get scared by the bruising that may well occur in the area around the piercing. Body piercing damages the tissue and it takes some time before all can be well again. However, the bruises should disappear soon enough, so don’t worry about them too much.
  • Avoid using make-up or creams in that area. Once your eyebrow piercing heals completely, you should be able to do pretty much anything. Just keep some things on hold for those six to eight weeks till your eyebrow piercing heals.
  • If, despite your utmost efforts, your piercing does get infected, make a visit to the piercing studio and get somebody to clean the wound for you. If you are cleaning it yourself, do a thorough job. Try using a hot compress with salt water to clean out the infection. Do this on a regular basis and the infection should disappear soon enough. If it does not, it might be time to make a trip to your doctor.

You need to take great care of your eyebrow piercing especially because the pierced area is a rather sensitive one. The skin is thin and there is not too much tissue in the layers beneath it. The eyebrows are there to protect the eyes from dust and grime. However, this might lead to the dirt particles affecting the piercing and could lead to an infection. Plus, you have to be extra careful even while changing your clothes for the jewellery could get entangled in them. Ideally, I would suggest staying away from strenuous physical activities where you could bump into other people and end up prolonging the healing process.

If you are willing to take on the responsibility of taking care of your eyebrow piercing, make that trip to the piercing studio. There is nothing wrong with wanting to be “with it”, just ensure that you are willing to dedicate sufficient care to facilitate the healing process.

Nose Rings

Nose Rings

by Nasrina Parvin Khan

Usually nose rings are worn through a hole pierced in the nose. Generally there are three types of nose piercing: nostril piercing, septum piercing and bridge piercing across the top of the nose. But the most practiced and popular is nostril piercing.

Women always want to look gorgeous. They have a fascination for jewelry. It is said, ” jewelry is the best friend of a woman”. Today’s fashion conscious women feel delighted when some one appreciates her style. They always want to create attraction and look stunning.
nose rings
Women’s face is the center of the attraction of their body. So, they want to decorate their face with jewelry to enhance their glamour. In today’s fashion the trendiest facial jewelry is nose ring.

Usually nose rings are worn through a hole pierced in the nose. Generally there are three types of nose piercing: nostril piercing, septum piercing and bridge piercing across the top of the nose. But the most practiced and popular is nostril piercing.

The most common part to wear a nose ring is the curve of the nostril. Usually it is worn through the left nostril.

Nose ring is one of the most traditional body-piercing jewelry

although it is new and radical to many Americans. Nose rings originated in Middle East and then made their appearance in the India with the Moguls. In the 16th century, it became very popular in India. Indian brides can be seen with heavy gold nose rings connected to heavy matching earrings with ornate chains in their marriages.

gold nose ring

Nose rings have a cultural significance and traditional values in many communities. Nose rings are signs of marriage for women in Muslim communities. In many Indian cultures, a nose ring worn by women in the left nostril is believed to make childbirth easier. Bones or bird feathers are worn through the enlarged septum piercing in many tribal communities.

This traditional body piercing jewelry gained popularity in Western world in the end of the 20th century among the youth women. But if we look back; we can see that nose rings were vanished from the fashion scenario of the Eastern world. Now with the popularity in the Western World, it makes it comeback in the Eastern World with a new look and style and creating a fashion statement.

Types of nose rings

There are many kinds of nose piercing jewelry, like – nose rings, nose studs and nose barbells. The original/traditional nose ornaments were not rings in true sense. They were tiny piece of flowery patterned jewelry with a thin stem, which pushed into the left nostril, and was held in place by a screw in the inside. Sometimes these were decorated with nice chains and pendants. Then, big round nose rings appeared in the scenario.

Traditional nose ornaments modified with the time and now get a modern, good look. Nose rings are most popular and hot favorite nose ornaments in latest fashion scenario. Small nose rings are very popular among the teen and college girls. It is no matter what is the material of the rings. It is usually made of metal such as gold, silver, platinum, surgical steel or titanium etc. It can be made of plastics also. Rings can be plain or set with stones. Gold, platinum rings set with diamonds or semi-precious stones are in the craze. Models, actresses or other celebrities prefer its. Diamond nose ring of Sania Mirza, a tennis player became the talk of the tinsel town in India. Now her style became the trend of Indian youth. But most college girls prefer to go for artificial nose rings, which has stylish beads.

If nose rings are popular fashion in the youth women, then nose studs and nose pins are finding their place among the much older women. Though it is a traditional wear for the Eastern World, but the Modern women in Western World are going for it. Hollywood actresses are also getting weak with diamond sparkling nose studs and creating a new fashion statement.

Spark of the diamond in the nostril creates a sophisticated, nice look. Who does not afford diamond they can try semi precious stone to get the spark. Flower designs are most popular for nose studs. It is never been out of fashion. Latest trend and designs for nose pins which available in the market are Moon, Star, Mango, Flower with gold bud, Seashell and Four Flame. With the older women today’s youth also trying for these jewelries.

Those who are not want a pierce hole in their nose but want to follow the fashion; they can try for clip-on nose rings or studs. It looks like original.

So, women who are the latest fashion follower and want a crazy, trendy look, try for any of these nose ornaments. It will enhance your beauty and glamour and give you a stylish look.

Nose Piercing

Nose Piercing

by Sheweta Dhanuka

Nose piercing is derived from Hebrew word ‘Shanf’. Initially it was documented approximately 4000 years ago during Middle East where King Abraham gave gold nose ring to his second wife at the time of their marriage. It became her security for the rest of her life.

The ravishing and global sensational celebrities like tennis star Sania Mirza, pop star Madonna, Sinead O’Connor and the like all have a common feature. They all have their nose pierced. Nose piercing is the latest fashion amongst the stylish yet classy females. In earlier days, wearing the nose pins or nose rings was only limited to the females from wealthy families. Providentially as now things have become more universal, nose piercing is within society acceptable norms for each and everyone who is willing to go for it irrespective of the status.

The legend Leonardo Da Vinci described nose as the main organ of the body that lays down the persona of the face. Today, the fashion icons by means of the same belief had made nose express the personality of an individual brilliantly through nose pins and rings. Nose piercing is the most modern trend. Therefore, the below article is penned down with the aim to provide all the necessary information about this attractive trait that draws attention towards the female with the pierced nose in the mass.

Nose Piercing Origin

Nose PiercingNose piercing is derived from Hebrew word ‘Shanf’. Initially it was documented approximately 4000 years ago during Middle East where King Abraham gave gold nose ring to his second wife at the time of their marriage. It became her security for the rest of her life. African and Middle East tribes still follow this custom; the bridegroom gives the nose ring to the bride and the female retains it in case she is divorced.

Mogul emperors brought the tradition of nose piercing in India in the 16th century. Since then many Indian females are seen with their nose pierced. Traditionally in some states, the size of the nose ring in the nose of lady of the house connotes the financial power and status of her family in the society. As the financial strength increases the size of the nose ring also increases. The nose ring is called as nath that has religious significance too. With time the strict conventional rules have been waved off but the religious practices continues like wearing the nath at the festive occasions while performing the puja. The nath is attached with the long chain that joins the hair. It looks very beautiful in the traditional attire.

Nose Piercing Beliefs

This contemporary chic is associated with an Ayurveda belief. According to the Indian medicine, the female who get her nose pierced is assumed to experience less pains while delivering the child. The reason behind this belief is, through the piercing some vein is pressed that makes the childbirth easier. Apart from the Ayurveda, few astrologers even suggests spinster to pierce their nose in order to find the right match for them. These are just the beliefs that does not match the modern thinking but are accepted by few cluster of people.

Nose Piercing Jewelries

Nose PiercingThe metal used for making nose jewelry should be non-allergic. Nose is a very sensitive organ therefore the metal should be 18K or more white gold or yellow gold, titanium or niobium. Platinum could also be used if cost is not a problem but silver must not be the choice of selection while piercing the nose. Silver tends to oxidize very fast when comes in contact with air and water. When it is used for piercing, it oxidize with puss secreted from the wound and lead to allergic reaction. Consequently, a lump might be formed or permanent black spot could be left on the nose. Silver must not be used while piercing although could be used once the wound is healed but if possible it should be avoided.

The jewelries to be worn in nose have two basic types viz. stud or ring. These two are having diverse designs that are created by the gold smiths and jewelry designers. A lady could select any type of nose jewelry with respect to her face cut and likings.

Nose Ring

Rings are more suitable for the traditional purpose. The ring could be of any size and any metal. Mostly, the rings are made up of sleek wires. To make it more attractive, additional colored beads, gungrus, small colored stones and pearls etc are attached. Few rings are simple plain rings while some are attached with the chains that have a clasp in the end used for tucking in hair. The chain is made up of similar metal as used for making the ring. The chains are crafted in striking designs. When the size of the ring is too big then one should go in for the attached chain as it gives support to the nose by dividing the weight of heavy ring between nose and hair.

Nose Stud

Nose PiercingStuds gives more informal and trendy look. The studs could be made using any colored gemstone. The size of the stud increases with the increase in the size of the stone. Single stone or multiple stones are used for creating different designs. Ideally, single stone stud is more commonly used for formal wear.

Piercing

Nose could be pierced either through the needle, gold wire or gun shot. The three methods are quite different from one another.

Gold Wire

The gold wire of 18K to 22K is inserted inside the nose. It is given the shape of the circle and after piercing the nose both ends of the wire are twisted together. Small colored beads could be inserted in the wire before piercing. There is as such no fixed spot for the hole; slight difference in the position is fine. The ring need to be cut when change is desired and once ring is cut it cannot be re-used again. This is the ideal way of piercing as wound gets healed very fast. After complete healing of the wound the ring is cut and pierced hole is just perfect then to wear all other fashionable and designer nose jewelries. In India, gold smiths are trained to do gold wire piercing in just few seconds.

Needle

It is quite similar to piercing through gold wire. The sharp needle in pricked in the nose in one shot. After the needle is removed, immediately small lightweight stud is placed in the hole and it is locked inside the nostril. Stud with wire is used for this purpose, which is twisted circularly so that it gets fixed. This method is simple as gold wire. It takes few seconds and causes less pain.

Gunshot

As the name specifies, for nose piercing plastic gun is used. It is same as ear piercing gun. In this method the nose stud is used that is set at the tip of Gun’s barrel. The nose piercing point is placed at the fixed position and trigger is pressed with a force. Then the stud gets fixed at the pierced hole. Gunshot piercing requires deep concentration as it has one exact spot on the nose that needs to be holed with the stud.

Gold wire or needle piercing are better methods than gunshot. The later is safe for ear piercing not for nose. Gun comes in contact with nostril for nose piercing. Each individual’s nostril carries some lethal microorganisms that can be transmitted from one to another if the gun is not sterilized. As the gun is made of plastic it cannot be autoclaved that sterilization is not possible. Thus, this method is more prone towards the serious infection. Secondly, gun is designed to pierce the soft ear flesh not relatively thick nose cartilage. Sometimes, gun fails to pierce at the first attempt. Then with force the blunt studs are pushed inside which is very painful. It takes longer time for healing too. This method is troublesome and painful thus should be dodged.

Nose Piercing Healing

Nose is thick cartilage so it takes longer time for the complete healing. Initial 2-3 weeks are very crucial. In this time period if the stud falls out then the pierced hole is likely to get closed in just couple of hours ( less than a day ). Therefore, one is ought to be very cautious during the critical weeks.

The most common problem with nose piercing is the formation of granulomas, the small lumps around the pierced hole. To heal the same hot fermentation should be done. Under this process steam iron the clean napkin and place it at the nose. It should be done 3-4 times and the entire process must be done thrice a day for two weeks. The napkin should not be very hot that it causes burning sensation, it should be only mild hot to dissolve the liquid in the granulomas. There is one more method to heal the wound quickly. Take 1/2 spoon of clean turmeric powder and mix it up with 1 spoon coconut oil to make a paste. Apply it 3-4 four times a day for two weeks. It would surely dry up the wound. Even after these processes the problem persists then one should go back to the person who did the piercing.

The healing usually takes approximately 45 – 60 days. There are few precautions that one must take care for this time length. These are minute things one needs to be vigilant about to have the safe and sound healing. The care results in the lifetime trouble free nose.

1. Never touch the piercing area with the naked hand again and again. It should be seldom touched, only when washing it or practicing the healing process. Always ensure to wash the hands with soap before and after touching.

2. Clean the piercing daily while bathing with a wet cotton ball dipped in saline solution for few minutes. In case saline solution is not available then 1/2 spoon salt mixed in luke warm water could also be used. Do not press the stud while touching with the cotton ball.

3. While drying, do not rub the face too hard with the towel else the stud might fall out. After wiping the face, dry the piercing with a new tissue or paper towel gently.

4. To lubricate the wound use lavender or coconut oil. If the skin is too sensitive then some antiseptic cream should be used instead of oil as prescribed.

5. The nose stud or ring should not be removed unless healing is fully done else it might result in some infection.

6. Cosmetics like sunscreen lotion, hair sprays and all make up items must be kept away from the piercing before it is fully healed up.

7. After first three weeks, the nose ring should be slightly rotated with the soft hand so that there is no blockage. Similarly the suds should be moved front and back very gently. The dried up puss on the ring could be removed very gently with the tissue if and only if it comes out, need not force upon it.

8. Silver jewelry must be avoided.

These are few safety measures that protect one from unwanted tribulations. A little effort leads to happiness and problem free life forever. Nose piercing defines the most prominent and sensitive part of the face splendidly. It puts forward the unique feminine look of the wearer. The pain that comes with the piercing is very petite price one pays for the style for rest of the life. Try it !!