Considering a Bridge Piercing? Here’s What to Know

Considering getting a bridge piercing? You probably have a handful of questions first.

Below, we cover 11 frequently asked questions about this striking nose piercing.

So, what is a bridge piercing exactly?

A bridge piercing — sometimes called an Erl piercing — runs horizontally across the nose bridge. It’s classified as a surface piercing because the bridge area generally lacks enough flesh for a dermal anchor.

Jewelry is placed through the skin, typically at the narrowest part of the nose or directly between the eyes. That said, placement can vary along the bridge, and in some cases the piercing can be done vertically if there’s sufficient tissue.

Can anyone get one?

Mostly, yes.

If you wear glasses, pay attention to placement. Most bridge piercings won’t interfere with frames. If they do, a shorter or curved barbell often helps, as do jewelry pieces with smaller or flatter ends.

If you’re concerned, bring your glasses to your appointment so the piercer can recommend optimal placement and suitable jewelry.

How much does it cost?

Bridge piercings usually cost between $30 and $60. Price varies with location, the studio, the chosen jewelry, and the piercer’s experience.

How much does it hurt?

You might expect a piercing between the eyes to be quite painful, but many people report it’s not overly painful.

Pain tolerance differs for everyone, of course. Generally, bridge piercings sting less because the needle passes mainly through skin.

Expect a quick pinch as the needle penetrates. Many find the skin clamping (described below) more bothersome than the piercing itself.

What’s the procedure like?

Here’s what typically happens during a bridge piercing session:

1. The piercer will assess your nose bridge to confirm your anatomy can support a bridge piercing.
2. You’ll pick your jewelry and sign a consent form.
3. The piercer will clean the area and mark the entry and exit points with a marker.
4. A clamp will be used to gently lift the skin away from the bridge.
5. The piercer will insert the needle through the skin, place the jewelry, and secure the ends.
6. They’ll clean the area again, provide aftercare guidance, and let you go.

How long does it take to heal?

Bridge piercings generally heal faster than some other nose piercings because they go through only a small amount of skin. Healing often takes about 2 to 3 months.

Remember that tissue heals from the outside inward, so the piercing may appear healed sooner than it actually is.

How do I care for it?

Good aftercare helps speed healing and lowers the chance of infection or other issues.

Here’s what TO DO while your bridge piercing heals:

• Wash your hands before touching your piercing.
• Use saline solution as needed, either by spraying or applying with sterile gauze soaked in saline.
• If your piercer approves, gently cleanse the area with a mild soap.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
• Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel.
• Sleep on a fresh pillowcase.

Here’s what NOT to do:

• Don’t touch the piercing except when cleaning.
• Avoid fiddling with your jewelry — rotation isn’t necessary.
• Don’t submerge the piercing in pools, hot tubs, or open water like lakes and oceans.
• Avoid harsh products containing alcohol, Bactine, perfumes, dyes, or strong chemicals.
• Be cautious when dressing, brushing hair, or putting on glasses to prevent snagging or friction.
• Don’t remove or change the jewelry until fully healed.

What are common side effects?

Mild tenderness, swelling, and redness are normal for the first few days. Some crusting and itching can also occur.

There’s an old myth that a bridge piercing can make you cross-eyed — it won’t. The piercing shouldn’t be more noticeable than the bridge of your nose already is.

If the piercing feels overly conspicuous or bothers you, discuss switching to a smaller, less obvious piece of jewelry with your piercer.

What are the risks?

Any procedure that breaks the skin carries risks. Choosing a reputable piercer and following proper aftercare greatly reduces most complications.

Still, keep these potential issues in mind:

• Infection. Piercings are open wounds and can become infected. Signs include intense pain, swelling, redness, and thick or foul-smelling discharge.
• Blood-borne infections. Rarely, unsanitary instruments can transmit diseases like tetanus or HIV.
• Allergic reactions. You might react to metals in jewelry, such as nickel. If you have a latex allergy, ensure your piercer uses non-latex gloves.
• Rejection. Surface jewelry sits near the skin surface, increasing rejection risk. You may notice the jewelry migrating, larger holes, or the skin between entry and exit becoming thin, flaky, or callused.

What jewelry is suitable?

Bridge piercings typically use a 12- or 14-gauge curved or straight barbell.

The Association of Professional Piercers (APP) recommends these materials for initial piercings to lower complication risks:

• Titanium. Medical-grade titanium is a top choice since it’s hypoallergenic and safe for people with nickel sensitivity.
• Niobium. Niobium is similar to titanium in safety and is generally well tolerated; it’s often less expensive though not always medical-grade certified.
• Surgical steel. Durable and cost-effective, surgical steel contains some nickel but typically releases very little, making it safe for most people. Avoid if you have strong nickel sensitivity.
• Solid 14K or higher gold. If you choose gold, pick 14K or higher and ensure it’s solid gold rather than plated — plating can wear away and expose underlying metals like nickel.

When can I change the jewelry?

Only after the piercing is completely healed.

It’s wise to have the initial jewelry swapped by a professional. New piercings can be delicate, and a piercer can change the jewelry without harming the thin layer of skin over the bridge.

The bottom line

If a bridge piercing appeals to you, find an experienced piercer. Ask friends for recommendations or search the APP’s directory.

Check the studio beforehand to confirm it’s clean and licensed, and make sure piercers follow strict sterilization practices. It’s also reasonable to ask to see portfolios and references.

If you’re interested in learning about related procedures or training that might help you prepare, you can also explore resources like calculus bridge.