Ever woken up to find your once perfectly healed septum piercing suddenly gone? The culprit might just be a phenomenon often referred to as "closed trauma," and it's more common than you think.
Septum piercings are popular for their unique placement and aesthetic appeal. However, issues can arise, even when the initial healing process seems perfect. One such issue is the septum spontaneously closing, seemingly overnight or during sleep. But why does this happen, and is there any way to prevent it?
Understanding Septum Piercing Closure
Septum piercings are done in the cartilage that separates the nostrils, and the hole is always pierced slightly to the left or right to avoid the "sweet spot" which is the midline and the most sensitive area. When a septum piercing moves out of place or heals incorrectly, it can feel like it has disappeared entirely.
It's essential to understand that septum piercings aren't like other facial piercings; they have a higher tendency to close due to their location. The tissue near the nose is mobile, and the piercing site is small, making it easier for the hole to close if the conditions aren't right.
Common Causes of Septum Piercing Closure
ыеOne of the most common reasons for septum piercing closure is a lack of sufficient blood flow to the piercing site. This can occur due to poor aftercare, like not cleaning the piercing regularly or using the wrong products. Inadequate cleaning can cause a buildup of bacteria, leading to inflammation and eventually scarring, which prevents the piercing from remaining open.
Another cause is trauma, which can happen as a result of touching or moving the piercing too much, wearing glasses or sunglasses that continuously apply pressure, or even sleeping on your side with the jewelry pressed against your pillow. When the healing process is disrupted repeatedly, it can cause the hole to close.
The Impact of Sleeping Position on Septum Piercings
Sleeping on your side can indeed contribute to septum piercing closure. During deep sleep, your movements are reduced. When you sleep on your side, continuous pressure on the piercing can cause it to become dislodged or move out of place. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and eventually, closure of the piercing.
On the other hand, sleeping on your back can also cause issues. While it might seem like this position would provide less pressure, it can actually lead to the jewelry becoming dislodged and moving around. Instead of closing the piercing, this can cause unnecessary discomfort and potentially destroy the jewel.
Preventing and Treating Septum Piercing Closure
If you've noticed your septum piercing starting to close, or you want to prevent it from happening, there are several steps you can take.
Firstly, ensure you're practicing good aftercare. This includes cleaning your piercing regularly with a gentle, unscented soap and warm water, avoiding antibacterial soaps which can be too harsh. Also, moisturize your skin around the piercing to keep it hydrated and promote healing.
Choosing the Right Jewelry
Selecting the right jewelry can also help prevent your septum piercing from closing. For newly pierced septums, start with a small ring with a spiral knot or a retainer. Retainers are specifically designed to keep the piercing hole open. Once your piercing is healed, you can switch to different jewelry types, but ensure you're not using anything too heavy or too small, as these can cause discomfort and damage to the piercing.
Avoid wearing your jewelry when you know you'll be sleeping on your side. Instead, opt for a retainer which can stay in place even when you're not wearing your primary jewelry. When getting ready for bed, gently push your septum cartilage back to its current position, then lay on your back. This can help keep your piercing from closing and prevent it from becoming dislodged in the night.
Seeking Professional Help
If your septum piercing has already started to close, there might be methods your piercer can use to try and re-open it, such as pierced jewelry downsizing or orbital piercing. Consult with your piercer as soon as you notice any signs of closure to increase the chances of saving your septum piercing.
In some severe cases, you might need to see a doctor if your piercing becomes too tight or starts to close completely. They might perform a minor procedure to open up the piercing again.
In the end, just remember that septum piercings can be fickle due to their location, but with proper aftercare and awareness, you can mitigate the risk of them closing. As always, if you're experiencing pain or discomfort, it's always best to err on the side of caution. If you're unsure about any aspect of your piercing's health, don't hesitate to reach out to your piercer or a healthcare professional."