A bridge piercing (sometimes known as an "erl" piercing) is a horizontal piercing placed at the bridge of the nose, directly between the eyes. The bridge is a surface piercing, meaning it runs underneath the skin rather than being pierced through a free-hanging part of the body (like the nostril or earlobe). Because it is a surface piercing, the bridge will most likely have a different type of healing process than something fleshy (like a belly ring or lip piercing) or a cartilage piercing (like an industrial, tragus, or nostril piercing).  

Bridge piercings are a unisex fashion option, popular among individuals of all identities. It is, however, an always-visible piercing due to it's location on the face - anyone who is considering getting a bridge piercing should consider the fact that they won't always be able to hide it in every scenario. It's status as a surface piercing also means this piercing is prone to rejection and migration. Be sure you're willing to take excellent care of your piercing, as any piercing (rejected or not) can leave a scar.

Body Candy has the biggest and best selection of body jewelry in the world, including a massive selection of eyebrow rings. From fun, colorful options to luxury 14k gold barbells, we have eyebrow jewelry that will perfectly suit anyone's face. Curved barbells are one of our many areas of expertise - here's all the important stuff you need to know about bridge piercings!

Does a bridge piercing hurt?

Yes. Piercings hurt. During a bridge piercing procedure, your professional piercer will use a pair of clamps to pinch the skin of your upper nose. They will then push a needle through the clamped skin. The clamp will be uncomfortable and the needle will feel like a sharp pinch. 

The good news: bridge piercings are considered pretty low-tier on the piercing pain scale. Bridge piercings go through just a bit of skin, rather than a painful cartilage piercing or a place with lots of nerve endings. Pain is always subjective, but for most individuals, a bridge piercing will be a quick and sharp pain (much like a shot) that is over in a few seconds.

How much does it hurt?

Every piercing is different. Every body is different. It's impossible to know exactly how a piercing is going to feel for each individual.

With that in mind, general consensus places the bridge piercing somewhere between a two (2) and a four (4) on the piercing pain scale. A quick, sharp pinching sensation should be all you need to get through. After that, consistent and careful aftercare is all you'll need to make sure your bridge piercing heals up perfectly.

Remember: a piercing is technically an open wound. Your body will interpret this as trauma, so note that after you get your bridge piercing, you might experience bruising, a bit of swelling, or some throbbing after the procedure. Be sure to eat, drink water, and rest well after your piercing is complete.
 

Most importantly: Any surface piercing (bridge piercings included) are prone to rejection. In this case, you should leave this procedure to a professional piercer. The depth and angle of this piercing are both extremely important to the success of this piercing. Bridge piercings are dependent on anatomy - your piercer will use a gauge/size/length that best corresponds with your body. They will also make sure it's straight - nobody wants a crooked bridge piercing!

How Long Do Bridge Piercings Take to Heal?

Surface piercings have a different healing process than other piercings. Everyone's body is different, but in most situations, erl piercings will take anywhere between two (2) to three (3) months to heal.

Uninterrupted healing time is INTEGRAL to the long-term health of your bridge piercing. While you are healing, do not bump or snag your bridge on any clothes. Do not attempt to change your jewelry for any reason whatsoever (unless instructed by a professional piercer). Bridge piercings are just prone to rejection - the skin on the bridge of your nose is sensitive and any excess stress or trauma will result in lengthened heal times, migration, piercing rejection, and ultimately scarring.

Disclaimer:  if you feel you are experiencing any pain, discomfort, redness, excess swelling, or any other unusual symptoms, contact your preferred medical professional AND call your professional piercer.

How to Insert Your Bridge Jewelry

After your bridge piercing has fully-healed and you have the go-ahead from your professional piercer, follow these steps to insert your new bridge jewelry.

1.) Clean/Sanitize -  Wash your hands. Wash your jewelry. Use a cloth and wipe down every surface of your new jewelry. This step is important, so don't skip it!

2.) Remove current jewelry -  This might feel weird at first, but it's time to take out your jewelry for the first time. If you are experiencing any out-of-the-ordinary pain, stop! You might need a bit longer to heal fully. Otherwise, unscrew one end of your bridge jewelry and gently pull the barbell out.

3.) Prep your new jewelry - Unscrew one ball end of your new jewelry. Put a little bit of saline solution on the jewelry or your bridge if you think you'll need a bit of extra lubrication.

4.) Insert the new jewelry - Put the unscrewed end of your bridge jewelry into your piercing hole. Carefully slide it in, being careful not to move too fast or be too rough.

5.) Reattach the ball - Find the ball you unscrewed. Carefully screw it back on the end of your bridge jewelry. Pro tip: lay a washcloth in the bottom of your sink if you're doing this in the bathroom mirror - you may save your ball end from going down the drain!