A standard nostril piercing generally takes around four to six months to heal, while a septum often feels settled after six to eight weeks – though full internal healing can take longer. It varies from person to person, so stick with your aftercare for the full stretch rather than stopping early.

Most people describe a quick, sharp pinch that is over almost before it starts. Cartilage feels a touch more intense than soft tissue, but it is brief, and the vast majority of clients find it far easier than they expected.

Clean it at least twice a day with sterile saline after washing your hands. Do not touch, twist, or rotate the jewellery, and keep cosmetic products away from the area until it has healed completely.

It might. Some piercings close with no trace at all, while others leave a small dot or a slight dimple. The longer you have worn it, the slower it tends to close, and a faint mark is more likely, though scarring is usually minor and often fades over time.

Not while it is healing. Foundation, concealer, serums, and similar products can irritate a fresh piercing, leave residue around the channel, and make healing more difficult. Once the piercing has fully healed, you can go back to your usual routine, just with a bit of care around the area.