Bridge Piercing in 2025: Cost, Pain, and Expert Aftercare Tips You Need to Know

Thinking about a bridge piercing? Before you take the plunge, it’s normal to have a few questions about this unique and stylish piercing.

This guide covers 11 key questions about bridge piercings to help you make an informed decision and prepare for the process.

What is a bridge piercing exactly?

A bridge piercing, also known as an Erl piercing, is a horizontal surface piercing that crosses the bridge of your nose, typically located between the eyes. Since the skin here is thin, it’s classified as a surface piercing rather than a dermal one.

The jewelry is inserted through the skin at the narrowest part of the nose bridge or directly between the eyes. Placement can be customized anywhere along the bridge, even vertically if your anatomy allows.

Am I a good candidate for a bridge piercing?

Most people can get a bridge piercing, but if you wear glasses, it’s important to consider placement to avoid interference. If needed, opting for shorter or curved barbells, or jewelry with smaller ends, can help reduce discomfort.

Bring your glasses to your piercing appointment so your piercer can select the best spot and jewelry type for you.

How much does a bridge piercing cost in 2024?

Costs typically range from $30 to $60 depending on your city, the studio’s reputation, and the jewelry you pick. Experienced piercers may charge a premium, but their expertise often ensures a safer and smoother experience.

Is a bridge piercing painful?

Although the piercing is between your eyes, most people report only mild discomfort. The needle causes a quick pinch, but the skin clamping before the piercing can feel more uncomfortable than the actual needle insertion.

Pain tolerance varies, but since the piercing passes through just skin, it’s generally less painful than cartilage piercings.

What happens during the piercing procedure?

1. Your piercer examines your nose bridge to confirm suitability.
2. You select your jewelry and complete a consent form.
3. The area is disinfected and marked for precise entry and exit points.
4. Skin is gently clamped to stabilize the piercing site.
5. The needle passes through and the jewelry is inserted and secured.
6. The area is cleaned again and you receive aftercare instructions.

How long does it take to heal?

Healing usually takes 2 to 3 months, faster than many other nose piercings because it only goes through skin. Remember, surface healing looks quicker externally but complete healing happens beneath the skin.

How should I care for my bridge piercing?

Good aftercare is crucial to avoid infection and promote speedy healing:

• Always wash your hands before touching your piercing.
• Use sterile saline solution to clean the area regularly.
• If approved by your piercer, wash gently with mild, fragrance-free soap.
• Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean paper towel.
• Sleep on fresh pillowcases to minimize bacteria exposure.

Avoid these during healing:

• Don’t touch or rotate the jewelry unnecessarily.
• Stay away from pools, hot tubs, lakes, and oceans to prevent infection.
• Avoid harsh chemicals like alcohol-based products, perfumes, or dyes near the piercing.
• Be cautious when dressing, brushing hair, or wearing glasses to prevent snagging.
• Don’t change or remove jewelry until fully healed.

What side effects should I expect?

Mild swelling, tenderness, redness, and some crusting or itching are normal in the first few days. The myth that a bridge piercing affects your eyesight is false—it won’t make you cross-eyed or affect your vision.

If the piercing feels too noticeable, consult your piercer about switching to smaller, less conspicuous jewelry.

What are the risks of a bridge piercing?

Risks include:

• Infection: Open skin is vulnerable to bacteria causing redness, pain, and discharge.
• Blood-borne infections: Rare but possible if instruments aren’t sterile.
• Allergic reactions: Some people react to metals like nickel; opt for hypoallergenic materials.
• Rejection: Surface piercings may shift or be pushed out by the body, causing thinning or scarring.

What jewelry is recommended for bridge piercings?

The standard is a 12- or 14-gauge curved or straight barbell. The Association of Professional Piercers (APP) advises these materials for initial piercings:

• Medical-grade titanium: Hypoallergenic and ideal for sensitive skin.
• Niobium: Affordable and safe but not medically graded.
• Surgical steel: Durable with low nickel release; avoid if highly sensitive.
• Solid 14K or higher gold: Must be solid, not plated, to prevent irritation.

When can I change my jewelry?

Only after your piercing is completely healed—usually after a few months. Have a professional piercer do the swap to avoid damaging the delicate skin layer.

Final thoughts

If you love the look of a bridge piercing, choose a trusted, licensed professional. Ask for recommendations, inspect the studio’s cleanliness, and verify their sterilization standards.

Check the piercer’s portfolio and reviews to ensure quality work. With proper care, a bridge piercing can be a stylish, low-maintenance addition to your look in 2024.

Written by Adrienne Santos-Longhurst, a seasoned health and lifestyle writer based in Canada, passionate about providing accurate and inspiring content on body art and wellness.

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