Can You Hide a Septum Piercing? Know the Best Retainer Options

Your septum ring is the absolute killer and now you can be all trendy as you want. But sometimes, they don’t go along with their professional lives. Maybe your job isn’t piercing-friendly or you attend an event that has a different vibe than styling a septum on it. So what are your options? Can you hide a septum piercing? The answer is yes, and there are many options available for you to try. Let’s talk about how to keep your septum piercing during professional hours and be on the down low while working.

Learn the Basics

Your septum is one of the coolest yet the easiest piercings. It can be smoothly maintained and managed while totally slaying it. Unlike nose piercing or lip piercing jewellery, this piercing is inside your nostril, meaning it is easier to flip it up. Just swap it out or use a special septum piercing retainer that is invisible and a good option to keep the piercing from closing up.

Now, here is the main factor that many forget: to choose the right septum jewellery and replace it with the right retainer.

Hide Septum Piercing with the Flip-Up Method

Person with a septum retainer, showcasing a minimal and professional look

Wearing a circular barbell for septum piercing is often rewarding as you can easily flip it up. A circular barbell, as per its shape, is like a horseshoe and can be easily turned the other way into your nostril, making the septum ring almost invisible.

You can hide your piercing for as long as you want. Now, before you go and flip it out every five minutes, keep in mind your septum doesn’t need to be flipped too soon, especially if it’s still healing. You need to check the situation and then use this technique. Ideally, monitor your piercing and wait for 6 to 8 weeks. If you’re unsure, check with your piercer first.

Best Septum Piercing Retainers

If you have more intricate jewellery with gems and studs or the shape is not suitable for flipping, you might want to go and find piercing retainers. They are almost invisible and so good to keep your piercing from clogging or closing. You can easily hide your septum piercing during work or special events.

Clear Acrylic Septum Retainers

Clear retainers are perfect for those moments when you need to make your piercing completely invisible. Made from biocompatible acrylic, these retainers are lightweight and comfy. However, be careful; acrylic isn’t the best long-term material since it can break down over time, especially with frequent wear.

U-Shaped Septum Retainers

These retainers are made of stainless steel, titanium, or glass and are shaped like a staple. You can wear them pointing downward like regular jewellery, but when you need to hide your piercing, just flip them up, and they disappear into your nose. They’re comfy, durable, and a favourite among people who need to hide their septum piercings for work or family.

Glass Septum Retainers

If you have sensitive skin, a glass septum retainer is your best bet. Glass is non-reactive, meaning it won’t cause irritation or allergic reactions. Plus, it’s super smooth, making it comfortable to wear for long periods. Just be extra careful not to drop it – glass retainers can be fragile!

When Should You NOT Hide Your Septum Piercing?

Minimalist septum retainer on a model, blending seamlessly with their aesthetic

Hiding your piercing might be a requirement for some settings, but it should not always be the option. You have to fully embrace your fashion choice and make a statement for those who want to do something bold but are hesitant. Along with the acceptance, there are times when you really shouldn’t mess with it.

  • If your piercing is still fresh: Moving it around too soon can cause pain, irritation, or even infection.
  • If it’s swollen or irritated: If your piercing is acting up, flipping it up or down constantly can make things worse.
  • If your retainer feels uncomfortable: If your retainer is pinching, causing pain, or just feels off, don’t force it. Comfort is key!

How Long Can You Keep Your Septum Piercing Hidden?

If you’re using a septum retainer, you can keep your piercing hidden indefinitely as long as you wear it consistently. However, if you remove your jewellery entirely, your septum piercing can close surprisingly fast, especially if it’s still healing. Even a few hours without jewellery could mean trouble for a brand-new piercing. If your piercing is fully healed (we’re talking 6 months to a year), it’s a bit more forgiving, but still – don’t push your luck!

Can You Hide a Septum Piercing for Work or School?

Absolutely! Many workplaces and schools have dress codes that aren’t exactly piercing-friendly, but a septum piercing gives you an easy way around those rules. If your employer is strict about visible piercings, using a septum retainer or flipping your jewellery up can keep things professional without losing your personal style.  

So, whether you’re cleverly flipping it up, using a septum retainer, or just choosing the right jewellery, there are plenty of ways to keep your piercing under wraps when you need to. Just remember: don’t rush the healing process, always use high-quality septum jewellery, and be mindful of how often you’re flipping or changing it.

Author: Minahil

Share This Post On