I’m no stranger to the thrill of body bling, as someone rocking three piercings already and planning to get two more. Each one of my piercings has its own story, and I love the way they add an edgy vibe to my style. Recently, while exploring for fresh inspiration, I came across a rhino piercing and I literally did a double take! It’s not every day you see a piercing on the tip of the nose, intrigued by the sheer amount of people hoping on this trend, I’m giving you a 101 in case you plan to get it.
What Is a Rhino Piercing?
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The rhino piercing, also known as vertical nasal tip piercing, vertical nose tip, or vertical tip piercing, is trending on social media, especially TikTok with over 141 million views. This piercing goes vertically through the very tip of the nose, resulting in two visible adornment points: one above the nasal tip and the other on the underside of the columella. The piercing’s distinct appearance makes it a fun alternative to more conventional nose piercings like nostrils or septum piercings.
Despite its name, the rhino piercing has little to do with rhinoceroses. The name likely stems from the Greek word for nose, “rino,” similar to how rhinoplasty is derived from “rino” and “plastia” (shape or mould). The piercing itself, however, can be traced back to various indigenous cultures. These traditions have kept this form of body modification alive, allowing it to evolve and adapt to modern aesthetics.
Understanding the Risks
As with any piercing, the rhino piercing comes with its set of risks and considerations. Infection is always a potential hazard if aftercare isn’t followed properly. While the piercing’s placement doesn’t inherently increase infection risk, the possibility of migration or rejection is higher compared to nostril piercings, which can lead to visible scarring. This is because the rhino piercing passes through sensitive tissue, making it crucial to choose a skilled and experienced piercer. Improper technique or inadequate aftercare can lead to complications such as granulated tissue, keloid scarring, or hypertrophic scar tissue, all of which could affect the piercing’s aesthetic outcome and may require medical attention.
Pain Level
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Pain is a subjective experience, but it’s generally agreed that the rhino piercing can be more uncomfortable than other nose piercings. The unique location and nature of this piercing often result in heightened discomfort during and after the procedure. Make sure to consider personal pain tolerance and lifestyle factors before committing to this piercing. For instance, if you have seasonal allergies or need to wear a mask frequently, the rhino piercing might not be the best choice as it can affect basic activities like blowing your nose or breathing through your nose.
Aftercare Tips
Caring for a rhino piercing involves similar steps to caring for other types of piercings but with some specific considerations. Avoid touching the piercing excessively to prevent bacteria spread and potential infections. This includes not twisting, pulling, or removing the jewellery, as these actions can disrupt the healing process and damage regenerating tissue. Monitoring how the piercing feels is important; any pain or discomfort should prompt a change in the activity causing it.
Avoid chemicals like hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, soaps, essential oils, or ointments around the piercing area. Instead, using water or body-neutral wound wash saline is recommended. Regular check-up appointments with your piercer every four to eight weeks are crucial to assess the piercing’s progress and potentially downsize the jewellery, which can expedite the healing process and prevent problems.
When and How to Change the Jewellery
Once the rhino piercing is fully healed, typically after six to nine months, you can swap out the initial jewellery for a vertical stud or a barbell. However, it’s important to wait until complete healing to avoid complications and ensure a smooth transition to new jewellery.
If you’re drawn to the fun look of the rhino piercing and are prepared for the commitment it entails, it could be a fantastic addition to your body jewellery collection.
Image Credits – Trishapaytastatoo, Allen Wilson
