1) Horseshoe Septum Piercing
The most common form of jewelry to use in a septum is a “horseshoe” curved barbell, it gets this name by looking like a, you guessed it, horseshoe, glad to see you are still with me on this one. If you came in to see me and asked for a septum, unless a special request is made, I always use a horseshoe. The reason for this is simple, most people have jobs, extracurricular activities, parents, school, church, you name it, that may have policies against facial piercings. This ninja jewelry not only allows space for swelling during the initial piercings but also allows you to take the exposed balls and tuck them in so they are not seen (keep your mind out of the gutter). Like any other piercing, there are many styles and materials for jewelry.
2) Hoop Septum Piercing
The aforementioned horseshoe owns the market in popularity, but don’t be fooled into thinking it’s the only look you can pull off. If your lifestyle allows it, consider a hoop. Hoops are classy and versatile. You could go for a smaller one that hugs the septum or a larger one for a bolder look. Personally, I would always advise a hinged hoop, this one is pretty straight forward but it is a one-piece hoop with a small hinge that allows a segment to open up wide while using a detent on the other side to keep it locked. I really like this jewelry because of the large opening that lets you slide it right in. Captive bead rings can be a real pain to put in because you have a limited space to get past the thick of your nose, so food for thought.
3) Pincers, Bars, Retainers and Mustache Septum Piercing
And then you have your oddball jewelry like pincers, bars, retainers, and even mustaches. Pincers get their name from looking like a crab or lobster claw, so they start thick and then taper to a smaller tip. Generally, there are small O-rings that keep the piece showing evenly for everyday wear. Bars create a horizontal look that some people like, often with spikes or gems at the end, because it goes against the natural lines of your face it really tends to stand out. Retainers are for the discreet wearer. They are usually made from polyurethane for people that need to make sure it stays hidden or people that have some kind of medical examination that cannot wear metal. Lastly you have mustaches which, you guessed it, mimic the look of a mustache. Not going to lie, you’re just a big ol goober if you wear one of those, so own it. However, since the mustache tends to have more material, it also weighs more. So, this is not a piece you would want to wear every day, save it for your cousin Jackie’s bar mitzvah.