Oh no! It looks like you're here because you might have a case of a stinky septum piercing.
Here's what you need to know:- It's normal!- You are the only one who can smell it.- It's preventable |
Whether you're healing a new septum piercing OR you are in the midst of your stretching journey, there may come a point when you are confronted with the unsavory scent of your septum piercing. Although it's typically not a reason for concern, it definitely is something that most people would like to avoid and prevent. We’ve put together a list of tips to ward off the stinky septum phenomenon in the future, regardless of where you are in your septum piercing journey.
What Causes the Odor
Sebum + Dead skin + Bacteria = Septum funk
First, it should be noted that the septum funk is a super normal response that your body has to a piece of jewelry in your nose. When you size up your piercing, it can become even more likely to occur. The smell is caused by healthy discharge (sebum and sweat) that captures dead skin cells and bacteria, resulting in a cheesy scent.
How to Prevent it
Regular cleaning = Healthy Septum Piercing ☺
Keeping your piercing clean is the best method to eliminate and prevent the odor. If it is still healing, a twice daily sterile saline spray can keep your piercing healthy and odor-free! If your piercing has already healed, it is still necessary to clean your piercing often. Saline spray can be used, or a gentle soap with warm water will suffice!
If your piercing is completely healed, you also have the option to take out your jewelry to complete a thorough cleaning! A saline soak for your jewelry can remove buildup– as well as a gentle wash in soap and water. Taking your jewelry out can also give you an opportunity to clean your piercing more thoroughly.
Beyond keeping your piercing clean, you will also want to keep makeup and moisturizers away from your holes. These can contribute to buildup around your piercing that can trap bacteria. As always, wash your hands before touching your piercings!
Body Jewelry to Consider
You may find yourself being more prone to a smelly septum, despite your hygienic practices. If this is the case, choosing high quality, implant-grade pieces is of utmost importance. We recommend implant grade titanium pieces, which we offer at Pierced Owl.
Spiked Hinged Segment Ring - G23 Implant Grade Titanium
Descending Triple Stack Hinged Segment Ring - G23 Implant Grade Titanium
Although a smelly septum is common, if you suspect something is out of the ordinary or the smell persists, visit a professional piercer!
