How to get rid of a nose piercing bump
Nose Piercing Bumps
Nose piercing bumps are normal and can be caused by:
- Keloids: Raised scars that form after healing.
- Infections: Bacterial infections can cause inflammation and bumps.
- Allergic Reactions: Sensitivity to jewelry materials.
- Irritation: From trauma or friction from clothing, hair or jewelry.
What Kind of Bump Do I Have?
Before treatment, you need to know what kind of bump you have:
- Keloids: Firm, rubbery nodules that grow beyond the original hole.
- Infections: Red, swollen and may produce pus.
- Allergic Reactions: Itchy, red and often with rashes.
- Irritation Bumps: Small, red and localized to the piercing area.
General Tips
Regardless of what kind, general care is key:
- Keep it Clean: Clean the area with saline solution or a mild soap twice a day.
- Don’t Touch: Minimize handling to prevent irritation and infection.
- Choose the Right Jewelry: Use hypoallergenic materials (like titanium or surgical steel).
- Avoid Harsh Products: Stay away from alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or tea tree oil which can dry out or irritate the skin.
Specific Treatments
1. Keloids
- Topical Treatments: Over the counter silicone gels or sheets can help flatten keloids.
- Steroid Injections: A dermatologist may recommend corticosteroid injections to shrink.
- Surgery: In some cases surgery may be necessary but this can sometimes lead to new keloid formation.
2. Infections
- Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to reduce swelling and help drain.
- Antibiotic Cream: If there’s pus or severe redness a doctor may prescribe topical antibiotics.
- Oral Antibiotics: For more severe infections oral antibiotics may be needed.
3. Allergic Reactions
- Change Jewelry: Switch to hypoallergenic materials.
- Topical Steroids: Hydrocortisone cream can help with inflammation and itching.
- Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines.
4. Irritation Bumps
- Remove Irritation: Identify and get rid of the source of irritation.
- Gentle Care: Continue to clean gently and don’t touch too much.
- Tea Tree Oil: Some people find diluted tea tree oil helpful for irritation bumps but it’s individual.
Natural Remedies
If you prefer natural, try these:
- Aloe Vera: Soothing properties. Aloe vera gel reduces inflammation and heals.
- Chamomile Tea Compress: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties. Brew a tea, cool it and use as a compress.
- Honey: Antibacterial properties. Apply a thin layer directly on the bump.
When to See a Doctor
If:
- It doesn’t get better after a few weeks of care.
- You see signs of infection (redness, warmth, pus, fever).
- You have severe pain or swelling.
- You’re not sure what it is.
Preventing Future Bumps
To avoid future bumps:
- Choose Good Jewelry: Get quality jewelry from a reputable source.
- Follow Aftercare: Follow aftercare instructions from your piercer.
- Don’t Change Jewelry Too Soon: Wait until it’s fully healed before changing jewelry.
- Be Careful: Protect your piercing during sports or activities that may cause trauma.
Conclusion
Nose piercing bumps can be a pain but with proper care and attention most can be managed. Always prioritize cleanliness, avoid irritants and choose the right jewelry. If it persists, don’t hesitate to see a doctor for personalized advice. Be proactive and you can enjoy your piercing without problems!