A bridge piercing is bold, symmetrical, and perfectly placed to turn heads. Located on the bridge of the nose—it’s a surface piercing that pierces only the skin, not cartilage or bone. But despite its sleek look, this between the eyes piercing demands expert precision, commitment to healing, and a solid understanding of how facial anatomy impacts long-term results.
So, what is a bridge piercing, really? It’s more than an edgy aesthetic—it’s a technical, anatomy-sensitive procedure that must be executed by a professional to minimize risks like rejection or scarring. If you’re considering one, this guide breaks down exactly what you need to know about healing, pain levels, jewelry choices, risks, and aftercare.
At Mantra Tattoo, we specialize in high-quality, safe facial piercings with expert placement. Our clean, upscale environment and trained artists provide guidance every step of the way. Book an appointment to explore your options with a trusted professional piercer.
Anatomy for Bridge Piercing: Are You a Good Candidate?
Not every face is suited for a bridge piercing—and that’s okay. The key to a safe, successful placement starts with understanding the anatomy for bridge piercing and assessing the skin in the nasal bridge area.
Skin Thickness and Facial Structure Considerations
Thicker skin and a flatter bridge offer more stability for this piercing. People with high, narrow bridges or tight skin in this region are more likely to experience pressure or migration. Your piercer should evaluate your face from multiple angles to ensure proper placement that sits flat and heals evenly.
When Bridge Piercings Aren’t Recommended
Clients with extremely thin or tight skin, a history of surface piercing rejection, or active skin conditions may be advised against getting a nasal bridge piercing. Responsible studios will always prioritize your long-term health and satisfaction over making the sale.
Can You Wear Glasses With a Bridge Piercing?
Can you wear glasses with a bridge piercing? Yes, but be strategic. During healing, glasses can rub the area and slow progress. Lightweight or frameless styles reduce pressure. Many clients switch to contacts for the first few weeks to give the piercing a chance to stabilize.
Bridge Piercing Placement: Between the Eyes Piercing Basics
Bridge piercing placement is critical—get it even a millimeter off, and it throws off your entire facial symmetry. The jewelry sits horizontally across the nose, right where the between the eyes piercing name comes from.
Surface Piercing vs Traditional Piercing
Unlike a nostril or septum piercing, this doesn’t pass through a tunnel or cavity. It’s a surface piercing, which means it travels under the skin and exits just a few millimeters away. That’s why it’s more prone to rejection than “deeper” piercings.
Bridge Piercing vs Nasal Bridge Piercing Terminology
Both terms—bridge piercing and nasal bridge piercing—refer to the same thing. The word “nasal” can be misleading since it implies deeper nasal tissue, but in reality, this piercing never enters the nose.
Small Bridge Piercing vs Statement Jewelry
A small bridge piercing with a minimalist barbell can make a subtle statement. Others go bigger and more decorative. We offer multiple jewelry styles and sizes, so you can pick something that matches your aesthetic—and your anatomy.
How Much Does a Bridge Piercing Hurt?
So, how much does a bridge piercing hurt? Surprisingly, not as much as you might think. Most people describe it as a sharp pinch followed by pressure. On the pain scale, it’s less intense than a septum or cartilage piercing.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The area is cleaned, marked for symmetry, and pierced with a sterilized hollow needle. The process is quick—under 60 seconds—and the barbell is inserted immediately after. You’ll then receive detailed instructions for the healing process.
Client Pain Tolerance and Common Sensations
Some clients report watery eyes or pressure during insertion, but sharp pain is rare. Expect mild soreness and swelling for the first week. Our piercers use calming techniques and clean, efficient setups to minimize discomfort.
Tips to Minimize Pain and Anxiety
Stay hydrated, eat a good meal beforehand, and avoid caffeine. Trust your piercer, breathe through the process, and communicate if you need a moment. We prioritize your comfort every step of the way.
Bridge Piercing Healing Time and Stages
Bridge piercing healing time usually falls between 8 to 12 weeks for the initial phase, with full internal healing potentially taking 3 to 6 months. Because this is a surface piercing, it needs more monitoring than a traditional nostril or lobe piercing. Patience, consistency, and professional follow-up are essential.
Initial Healing Timeline and What’s Normal
During the first few days, you’ll notice swelling, redness, and sensitivity—that’s expected. Within the first two weeks, these symptoms should subside. Mild crusting around the jewelry is also common and should be gently cleaned, not picked.
Bridge Piercing Healing Stages: Swelling, Discharge, Itchiness
In weeks 3–6, itching may increase as your body begins regenerating skin tissue. Clear or white discharge is part of normal healing, while green or foul-smelling discharge can indicate infection. Avoid over-cleaning, which can dry out the skin and prolong healing.
When to Downsize or Change Jewelry
Your initial jewelry is intentionally longer to accommodate swelling. After 4–6 weeks, a professional piercer should assess whether it’s time to switch to a shorter barbell. Never change it yourself—doing so too early can damage tissue and increase the risk of rejection.
Bridge Piercing Aftercare: Keeping the Area Clean and Infection-Free
Bridge piercing aftercare is crucial—this piercing sits in an area exposed to oil, makeup, facial movement, and eyewear. Consistency is what keeps infections, irritation, and scarring at bay.
How to Clean a Bridge Piercing Safely
Twice daily, spray the area with sterile saline solution—one spray on each side. Let it sit for 30 seconds, then gently pat dry with a clean paper towel or sterile gauze. Avoid cotton balls (which can leave fibers) and never use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or scented soaps.
Mistakes to Avoid During Healing
Don’t twist or rotate the jewelry. Avoid makeup and skincare near the piercing. Never submerge it in water—no pools, hot tubs, or baths for at least 4 weeks. Also, avoid sleeping face-down, which can irritate and misalign the piercing.
Products We Recommend for Daily Care
We recommend sterile saline spray for new piercings and to strictly stay away from other solutions such as alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can actually cause more irritation. If packaged sterile saline is not available, a sea salt solution could be a good alternative.
To learn more read: Piercing Aftercare Guide
Risks of Bridge Piercings: Migration, Rejection, and Scarring
No piercing is risk-free—and this one, as a surface piercing, comes with unique challenges. But with proper aftercare, quality jewelry, and smart placement, many clients enjoy their bridge piercings for years without issues.
Why Surface Piercings Require Special Attention
Your body sometimes views surface piercings as “foreign objects” and may push them toward the skin’s surface. This is why professional placement that matches your anatomy is critical. Jewelry that’s too tight or shallow increases pressure and rejection risk.
How to Prevent Rejection or Early Removal
Follow aftercare religiously. Avoid trauma to the area—this includes hitting it with sunglasses, rubbing it when washing your face, or sleeping on it. Visit your piercer if anything feels off. Early intervention can often save a piercing that’s beginning to migrate.
Are Bridge Piercings Permanent or Temporary?
Are bridge piercings permanent? Not necessarily. Many people keep them for years, while others may experience rejection within months. Even if removed, some faint scarring can remain—but proper placement and titanium jewelry can help minimize long-term marks.
Jewelry Options for Bridge Piercings
The jewelry you choose is more than a fashion statement—it’s key to successful healing. Material, shape, and length all affect how your piercing feels and behaves as it heals.
Barbell Length, Gauge, and Materials
Most piercings start with a 14G or 16G straight or curved barbell. The initial bar will be slightly longer to accommodate swelling. Once healed, a shorter, snug-fitting barbell can enhance comfort and reduce movement that causes irritation.
Titanium vs Surgical Steel for Sensitive Clients
Titanium is the best option for sensitive skin—it’s nickel-free, lightweight, and less likely to trigger allergic reactions. Surgical steel is durable and safe for most, but slightly heavier. We offer both options to suit your preference and skin needs.
Can You Use a Retainer for Bridge Piercings?
Can you use a retainer for bridge piercings? Yes, but only after full healing. Clear acrylic or bioplast retainers are ideal for jobs or situations where a subtle look is needed. Always have a piercer install or remove retainers to avoid damaging healed tissue.
How Much Is a Bridge Piercing at a Professional Studio?
How much is a bridge piercing? Most professional studios charge between $40 and $80, depending on jewelry material, piercer experience, and location. But beware of deals that seem too good to be true—lower pricing often means corners are being cut on hygiene, jewelry quality, or skill.
Factors That Influence Pricing
Jewelry type is the biggest cost factor—titanium costs more than surgical steel but offers better healing outcomes. Studio reputation, sanitation standards, and piercer credentials also play a role. Remember, a facial piercing placed poorly is much more expensive to fix than to do right the first time.
Why Experience and Cleanliness Matter
Facial piercings are highly visible and require precision. Unclean environments or untrained piercers dramatically increase your risk of infection, migration, or permanent scarring. That’s why it’s critical to choose a studio with a solid track record.
At Mantra Tattoo, our licensed piercers use sterilized tools, premium jewelry, and high-end placement techniques to ensure your safety and satisfaction from day one.
What’s Included in the Cost at Our Studio
Our pricing includes a professional consultation, sterile piercing procedure, standard implant-grade jewelry, and aftercare instructions. You’ll also have the option to upgrade to custom or anodized jewelry styles if desired.
FAQs About What Is a Bridge Piercing
Can I Get a Bridge Piercing If I’m Under 18?
Most states require clients to be 18 or older for facial piercings. In some cases, minors with parental consent may be eligible, but you’ll need valid ID for both parties. We recommend calling ahead to confirm eligibility.
Will It Interfere With My Vision or Eyeglasses?
No. The jewelry is placed in front of the eyes, not near the sockets. Bridge piercing placement can be adjusted slightly if you wear glasses. Let your piercer know during your consultation so they can position it appropriately.
What Should I Do If It Starts to Reject?
Don’t panic—and don’t remove it on your own. Rejection often looks like the jewelry rising to the surface or the skin thinning around the bar. See your piercer immediately to discuss next steps and possible jewelry changes.
How Long Should I Wait Before Changing Jewelry?
Wait at least 3 months, or until your piercer confirms that the tissue is stable. Early changes can traumatize healing skin and lead to infection or rejection.
Can I Still Wear Makeup or Sunglasses?
Yes, but avoid direct contact during healing. Opt for non-comedogenic, fragrance-free makeup and skip products near the piercing site. Choose sunglasses that don’t press against the jewelry or cause friction.
Do You Offer Consultations to See If I’m a Good Fit?
Absolutely. We offer personalized consultations to determine if your skin structure supports a bridge piercing. You’ll also have a chance to view jewelry options and ask all your questions face-to-face with an expert.
What Makes Your Studio Different for Facial Piercings?
We provide an upscale, judgment-free space where clients of all ages—6 to 60+—feel comfortable getting pierced. Our artists specialize in clean placements and give expert guidance on jewelry, healing, and style. For Tattoo and Piercing in Denver, Mantra Tattoo is a name locals trust.
Ready to Get a Bridge Piercing? Book With Our Professional Piercers Today
Bridge piercings require skill, care, and attention to detail—and that’s exactly what we provide. Our licensed piercers will assess your anatomy, walk you through placement, and help you choose jewelry that fits your vision. Book with Mantra Tattoo and get a piercing that’s as bold and balanced as you are.
