Can you stretch your septum at home safely? Yes, with patience, the right tools, and diligent aftercare, you can stretch your septum at home safely. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from preparation to maintenance, ensuring a positive and healthy experience.
Stretching your septum, also known as septum stretching or adorning with a septum ring of a larger gauge, is a gradual process. It involves slowly increasing the size of the jewelry worn in your septum. This can be done with various types of jewelry and stretching tools.
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Preparing for Septum Stretching
Before you even think about inserting larger jewelry, thorough preparation is key. This ensures your body is ready for the process and minimizes the risk of complications.
Understanding Your Anatomy
Your septum is the cartilage that divides your nostrils. The piercing typically goes through the “sweet spot,” a softer area of tissue just below the cartilage. Knowing this helps you understand where the pressure will be applied and why a gentle approach is crucial.
Gathering Your Supplies: The Septum Stretching Kit
A good septum stretching kit is your best friend. It should contain the essentials for a safe and effective stretching journey.
- Tapers: These are conical pieces of jewelry that allow for a gradual stretch. They are typically made of glass, surgical stainless steel, or titanium.
- Plugs or Rings: Once a stretch is achieved, you’ll need jewelry to wear in the stretched opening. These can be plug stretching septum jewelry or circular barbells.
- Lubricant: A water-based, body-safe lubricant is essential for easing jewelry insertion and reducing friction.
- Gloves: Disposable, non-latex gloves are recommended for maintaining hygiene.
- Saline Solution: A sterile saline solution for stretched septum is vital for cleaning during and after the stretching process.
- Antiseptic Wipes: For cleaning surfaces and jewelry.
Choosing the Right Jewelry
The type of septum stretching jewelry you use is critical.
- Materials: Opt for biocompatible materials like glass, surgical stainless steel (316L), titanium, or niobium. Avoid porous materials like acrylic or wood for initial stretches, as they can harbor bacteria.
- Styles:
- Tapers: Ideal for the stretching process itself.
- Plugs: Solid, cylindrical pieces that fill the stretched fistula.
- Circular Barbells: A common choice for stretched septums, offering a range of aesthetic options.
- Captive Bead Rings (CBRs): Can also be used, but ensure the beads are securely fastened.
The Step-by-Step Septum Stretching Process
Patience is paramount when it comes to how to safely stretch septum. Rushing the process is the most common cause of tearing, blowouts, and infection.
Step 1: Hygiene is Non-Negotiable
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Clean your piercing and the jewelry you’ll be using with saline solution for stretched septum or a mild, unscented soap. Put on your gloves.
Step 2: Lubricate Generously
Apply a generous amount of water-based lubricant to both the jewelry (especially the taper) and the piercing site. This will help the jewelry slide in smoothly and minimize irritation.
Step 3: Gentle Insertion of the Taper
Slowly and gently begin to insert the taper into your septum piercing. Do not force it. If you feel significant resistance or pain, stop. You are not ready for this size. Remove the taper and try again another time.
- Sensations to Expect: A stretching, tingling, or mild burning sensation is normal. Sharp pain, tearing, or bleeding is not.
Step 4: Inserting the Jewelry
Once the taper is about halfway through, gently push your chosen jewelry (a plug or ring) through the piercing, following the taper. Alternatively, if your taper has a threaded end, you can screw your new jewelry directly onto it and pull it through.
Step 5: Cleaning and Aftercare
- Clean the Area: Gently clean the newly stretched piercing with your saline solution for stretched septum.
- Insert New Jewelry: If you stretched with a taper and are now inserting a plug or ring, ensure it’s also clean and lubricated.
- Initial Swelling: Expect some mild swelling and tenderness for a day or two.
Key Principles for Safe Stretching
Adhering to these principles will significantly contribute to a successful septum stretching guide.
Patience and Listening to Your Body
This cannot be stressed enough. Your body dictates the pace of stretching. Never force jewelry. If you experience pain, stop. It’s better to wait weeks or even months than to cause damage.
Gradual Size Increases
The general rule of thumb is to wait at least one month between each size increase. Some people may need longer, especially at larger sizes. This allows your fistula (the healed skin channel) to fully adapt to the new size.
Recognizing Signs of Problems
- Pain: Any sharp or intense pain is a warning sign.
- Bleeding: A small amount of blood might occur during a stretch, but significant bleeding is a sign of tearing.
- Blowouts: This occurs when the jewelry is forced through, causing the tissue at the back of the piercing to stretch and potentially evert or tear. This looks like a red, angry lump of tissue.
- Infection: Redness, swelling, pus, increased warmth, and a foul odor can indicate an infection. Seek professional medical advice immediately if you suspect an infection.
Jewelry Options for Stretched Septums
Once you’ve achieved a larger size, you’ll have a variety of septum stretching jewelry to choose from.
Plugs vs. Rings
- Plugs: These offer a clean, filled look. They are great for showcasing intricate designs or unique materials. When considering plug stretching septum, ensure they are smooth and well-finished to prevent irritation.
- Rings: Circular barbells, captive bead rings, and horseshoe barbells are popular choices. They offer more movement and can be decorated with charms or different bead types.
Materials and Designs
- Glass: Smooth, non-porous, and easy to clean, glass is an excellent choice for larger sizes.
- Stone: Beautiful and unique, stone jewelry can be worn once your fistula is well-established and healed. Be aware that stone can be heavier and more brittle than other materials.
- Metal: Surgical stainless steel, titanium, and niobium remain good options.
- Organic Materials (Wood, Bone, Horn): These should only be worn in fully healed, mature stretched piercings. They are porous and require diligent cleaning and oiling.
Aftercare for Your Stretched Septum
Proper aftercare for septum stretching is as important as the stretching process itself.
Daily Cleaning Routine
- Morning and Night: Gently clean your stretched septum with a sterile saline solution for stretched septum. You can do this by soaking a cotton ball or gauze in saline and gently wiping the area.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or strong soaps, as these can dry out and irritate the delicate fistula.
Moisturizing and Massage
- Jojoba Oil or Vitamin E Oil: Once a day, after cleaning, gently massage a small amount of jojoba oil or Vitamin E oil into your fistula. This keeps the skin supple and healthy, promoting elasticity.
- Benefits of Massage: Massage can also help break up scar tissue and improve blood flow, aiding in the healing process and preparation for the next stretch.
What to Do If You Encounter Issues
- Irritation: If the area becomes irritated, downsize your jewelry temporarily and focus on healing. Continue with gentle cleaning and moisturizing.
- Minor Swelling: If you experience minor swelling, ensure you are not sleeping on your piercing and continue with saline soaks.
Downsizing Your Stretched Septum
There are several reasons you might need to downsize stretched septum jewelry.
Reasons for Downsizing
- Irritation or Injury: If your piercing is sore, inflamed, or has a small tear, downsizing can help it heal.
- Healing a Blowout: Downsizing is crucial for healing blowouts. Going back to a smaller size allows the torn tissue to recede and heal properly.
- Temporary Removal: If you need to remove your jewelry for medical procedures or personal reasons, you may need to downsize to keep the fistula open.
The Downsizing Process
The process of downsizing is essentially the reverse of stretching.
- Hygiene: Clean your hands and the jewelry you will be downsizing to.
- Lubricate: Use lubricant to gently remove the larger jewelry and insert the smaller piece.
- Aftercare: Follow your normal aftercare routine, cleaning with saline and moisturizing.
- Patience: Give your piercing time to readjust to the smaller size. It may take a few weeks before you can comfortably reintroduce larger jewelry.
Healing Time for Septum Stretch
The healing time for septum stretch varies greatly from person to person and depends on several factors.
Factors Influencing Healing Time
- Individual Healing Rate: Everyone heals at their own pace.
- Size of the Stretch: Smaller stretches heal faster than larger ones.
- Aftercare Diligence: Consistent and proper aftercare significantly speeds up healing.
- Body Health: Overall health, nutrition, and hydration play a role in healing.
- Previous Trauma: If the piercing has experienced tearing or blowouts, healing will take longer.
General Timelines
- Initial Stretch (e.g., 16g to 14g): Typically 4-8 weeks between stretches.
- Mid-Range Sizes (e.g., 8g to 4g): May require 2-4 months or more between stretches.
- Larger Sizes (e.g., 0g and up): Can take 6 months to a year or even longer between significant size increases.
Remember, these are general guidelines. Always prioritize healthy healing over speed.
Table: Septum Stretching Progression Guide
This table offers a general idea of waiting times. Always listen to your body.
| Current Gauge | Next Gauge | Suggested Waiting Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16g | 14g | 4-6 weeks | First few stretches are usually quicker. |
| 14g | 12g | 4-6 weeks | Still relatively quick. |
| 12g | 10g | 6-8 weeks | Start to take more time. |
| 10g | 8g | 8-10 weeks | Patience is key here. |
| 8g | 6g | 10-12 weeks | Significant waiting period. |
| 6g | 4g | 3-4 months | Allow ample time for tissue to adapt. |
| 4g | 2g | 4-6 months | |
| 2g | 0g | 6-12 months | |
| 0g | 00g | 6-12 months+ |
When to Seek Professional Help
While how to safely stretch septum at home is achievable, there are times when professional assistance is necessary.
Signs You Need a Piercer or Doctor
- Severe Pain or Bleeding: If you experience significant pain or bleeding during a stretching attempt, stop immediately.
- Suspected Infection: Signs of infection (pus, increased redness, warmth, fever) require medical attention.
- Persistent Blowouts: If you’re struggling with blowouts despite downsizing and proper care, a professional piercer can offer advice.
- Uncertainty or Complications: If you are unsure about any part of the process or encounter unexpected problems, consult a reputable professional piercer. They can assess your piercing and provide guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some common questions about septum stretching.
Q1: Can I use tapers to stretch my septum?
Yes, tapers are commonly used for septum stretching as they provide a gradual method of increasing jewelry size. They are designed to be inserted slowly, allowing the tissue to stretch without tearing.
Q2: How often can I stretch my septum?
You should only stretch your septum when the previous size is completely comfortable and has been in place for at least 4-6 weeks, often much longer for larger sizes. Rushing the process is the most common cause of injury.
Q3: What is a “blowout” and how do I prevent it?
A blowout occurs when the tissue at the back of the piercing is forced through the jewelry, causing it to stretch, evert, or tear. To prevent it, stretch slowly, use plenty of lubricant, and never force jewelry. If you experience a blowout, downsize immediately and focus on healing.
Q4: How do I clean my stretched septum?
Clean your stretched septum daily with a sterile saline solution for stretched septum. Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol, or peroxide.
Q5: Can I use tapers to put in plugs?
Yes, tapers are often used as a conduit to insert plugs. You can either push the plug through behind the taper, or screw the plug onto the threaded end of the taper and pull it through.
Q6: What if my septum piercing is crooked? Can I still stretch it?
If your original piercing is crooked or off-center, stretching can make this more noticeable. It’s best to consult with a professional piercer. They can assess the situation and advise whether stretching is advisable or if a revision piercing might be a better option.
Q7: How long does septum stretching take?
The entire process, from your initial piercing to your desired size, can take anywhere from several months to several years, depending on your goal size and how patiently you proceed.
Q8: What should I do if my stretched septum hurts?
If your stretched septum hurts, it’s a sign that you are trying to stretch too quickly or there is irritation. Remove the jewelry if the pain is severe, downsize to a smaller gauge, and clean with saline. Avoid any further stretching until the pain subsides completely.
Q9: Can I use tapers made of bone or wood?
No, you should never use tapers made of bone or wood for stretching. These materials are porous and can harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Tapers should be made of smooth, non-porous materials like glass or surgical steel.
Q10: What jewelry is best for daily wear in a stretched septum?
Once healed, you can wear plugs, tunnels, or rings made from various biocompatible materials. Ensure the jewelry is smooth, well-finished, and comfortable for daily wear. Always use a sterile saline solution for stretched septum for cleaning.
This detailed guide provides the information you need for a safe and successful septum stretching journey. Remember to be patient, prioritize hygiene, and always listen to your body. Happy stretching!