Stretching a septum piercing requires patience, proper technique, and a commitment to aftercare. Done incorrectly, it can lead to significant complications, including infection, tearing, and permanent damage. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the safe and effective methods for septum stretching. Always prioritize safety and consult with a reputable piercer for personalized advice.
Understanding the Process
Septum stretching, like any other piercing stretching, is a gradual process. Rushing the process significantly increases your risk of complications. The key is to allow your piercing ample time to heal between stretches. This typically involves waiting several weeks, or even months, depending on your body's healing rate and the size of the jump between gauges.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies. Do not use improvised tools. Using inappropriate materials can cause serious damage.
- High-quality stretching tapers: These are specifically designed for stretching piercings and come in various sizes. Avoid using anything else, like jewelry designed for already-stretched piercings.
- Silicone tapers: These are a preferred choice by many, as they are smooth and less likely to cause damage.
- Sea salt soaks: Essential for maintaining hygiene and promoting healing throughout the process.
- Piercing-safe lubricant: A small amount of lubricant will help reduce friction during the stretching process. Again, choose a piercing-safe option.
- New jewelry: Once you successfully stretch your piercing, you’ll need appropriate jewelry for the new size. Ensure it’s made of implant-grade materials like titanium or niobium.
The Stretching Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Clean the piercing: Thoroughly clean your septum piercing with a saline solution before and after each stretch. This helps to minimize the risk of infection.
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Prepare the taper: Choose a taper that's only one size larger than your current jewelry. Jumping multiple sizes at once is extremely risky. Lubricate the taper lightly.
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Gentle insertion: Gently insert the taper through your piercing. Avoid forcing it. If you encounter resistance, stop immediately. Your body will tell you if it's not ready.
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Insert the new jewelry: Once the taper is through, carefully insert your new jewelry.
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Aftercare: Continue with diligent aftercare, which includes regular saline soaks, gentle cleaning, and avoiding touching your piercing unnecessarily.
Signs of Trouble: When to Stop and Seek Professional Help
Pay close attention to your body's response. If you experience any of the following, stop stretching immediately and consult your piercer or a doctor:
- Excessive bleeding: More than a small amount of blood is a sign of trouble.
- Significant pain: Mild discomfort is expected, but intense pain is not.
- Infection: Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pus, or increased pain.
- Tearing: Any signs of tearing or damage to the piercing requires immediate professional attention.
Choosing the Right Gauge
Gauge sizes are measured in millimeters or gauge numbers, with smaller numbers representing larger diameters. Start with small increments (e.g., from a 16g to a 14g) to minimize risks. Larger jumps significantly increase the risk of trauma.
The Importance of Patience
Remember, stretching your septum piercing is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient and allow your body sufficient time to heal between stretches. Rushing the process drastically increases your risk of complications. Respect your body's signals and prioritize its health above all else.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a reputable and experienced piercer before undertaking any piercing stretching. They can provide personalized guidance and help you avoid potential complications.
