DIY Chic: A Comprehensive Guide to Creating a Fake Septum Piercing
Want the edgy look of a septum piercing without the commitment or pain? You’re in luck! Creating a fake septum piercing is a fun, affordable, and commitment-free way to experiment with your style. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods, providing detailed step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to achieve a realistic and stylish faux piercing. Let’s dive in!
## Why Choose a Fake Septum Piercing?
Before we get started, let’s explore why you might opt for a fake septum piercing:
* **No Commitment:** This is the biggest advantage! You can rock the pierced look one day and return to your natural style the next.
* **No Pain:** Piercings can be painful, and the septum area is no exception. Avoid the discomfort altogether with a fake piercing.
* **Cost-Effective:** Real piercings can be expensive, including the initial piercing fee, jewelry, and aftercare products. Fake piercings are significantly cheaper.
* **Experimentation:** Not sure if a septum piercing suits you? A fake piercing allows you to try out the look before making a permanent decision.
* **Healing Time Avoidance:** Septum piercings can take several months to heal properly, requiring diligent aftercare. Skip the healing process entirely with a fake option.
* **Job/School Restrictions:** Some workplaces or schools may have rules against visible piercings. A fake piercing lets you express yourself outside of those environments.
## Methods for Creating a Fake Septum Piercing
There are several ways to create a convincing fake septum piercing. We’ll cover the most popular and effective methods:
1. **The U-Shaped Faux Septum Ring**
2. **The Magnetic Septum Ring**
3. **The Clip-On Septum Ring**
4. **DIY Wire Septum Ring**
Let’s explore each method in detail:
### 1. The U-Shaped Faux Septum Ring
This is the most common and easily accessible type of fake septum piercing. These rings are typically made of metal and have a U-shape that you simply squeeze onto your septum.
**Materials You’ll Need:**
* **U-shaped faux septum ring:** These can be found online (Etsy, Amazon), at Claire’s, Icing, or other accessory stores. Choose a style that suits your taste – plain, jeweled, or with intricate designs.
* **Small pliers (optional):** For adjusting the ring’s size for a more comfortable fit.
* **Mirror:** For precise placement.
* **Clean hands:** To prevent infection (even though it’s a fake piercing, hygiene is still important).
**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
1. **Clean Your Hands:** Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. **Prepare the Ring (Optional):** If the ring feels too tight or loose, use small pliers to gently adjust the opening. Be careful not to bend it too much, as it could break. A slight adjustment can make a big difference in comfort and appearance.
3. **Locate Your Septum:** Look in the mirror and locate the sweet spot on your septum – the thin piece of cartilage between your nostrils. This is where the ring will sit.
4. **Position the Ring:** Hold the U-shaped ring with the opening facing downwards. Carefully align the opening with the sweet spot on your septum.
5. **Attach the Ring:** Gently squeeze the open ends of the U-shape together, so that the ring clasps onto your septum. Apply even pressure to avoid pinching.
6. **Adjust for Comfort:** Once the ring is in place, check for comfort. If it feels too tight, gently widen the opening. If it feels too loose, carefully squeeze the ends closer together. Make small adjustments until it feels secure and comfortable.
7. **Check the Appearance:** Look in the mirror to ensure the ring is centered and looks natural. Adjust the position as needed.
**Tips for U-Shaped Faux Septum Rings:**
* **Choose the Right Size:** Septum rings come in various sizes. Opt for a size that complements your nose and facial features. A ring that’s too large can look unnatural, while a ring that’s too small might be uncomfortable.
* **Experiment with Styles:** Don’t be afraid to try different styles and designs. From simple silver rings to ornate jeweled pieces, there’s a faux septum ring to suit every aesthetic.
* **Be Gentle:** When adjusting the ring, be gentle to avoid damaging it or hurting yourself.
* **Clean Regularly:** Even though it’s a fake piercing, clean the ring regularly with rubbing alcohol to prevent the buildup of bacteria.
* **Consider the Material:** Some metals can cause irritation, even in fake piercings. If you have sensitive skin, opt for hypoallergenic materials like stainless steel or titanium.
### 2. The Magnetic Septum Ring
Magnetic septum rings use two magnets to hold the ring in place. One magnet sits inside your nostril, while the other sits outside, sandwiching your septum between them.
**Materials You’ll Need:**
* **Magnetic septum ring:** These can be found online. Ensure the magnets are strong enough to hold the ring securely but not so strong that they cause discomfort.
* **Mirror:** For precise placement.
* **Clean hands:** To prevent the transfer of bacteria.
**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
1. **Clean Your Hands:** Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. **Separate the Magnets:** Carefully separate the two magnets that make up the ring.
3. **Position the First Magnet:** Hold one magnet and carefully insert it into one nostril, positioning it against the septum.
4. **Position the Second Magnet:** Hold the second magnet outside your nostril, aligning it with the magnet inside. The magnets should attract and hold the ring in place.
5. **Adjust for Comfort:** Ensure the ring is comfortable and doesn’t pinch. If it feels uncomfortable, try repositioning the magnets slightly.
6. **Check the Appearance:** Look in the mirror to ensure the ring is centered and looks natural. Adjust the position as needed.
**Tips for Magnetic Septum Rings:**
* **Strength of Magnets:** Choose a ring with magnets that are strong enough to hold the ring securely but not so strong that they cause pain or discomfort. If the magnets are too weak, the ring will fall out easily.
* **Placement is Key:** Proper placement is crucial for both comfort and appearance. Take your time to position the magnets correctly.
* **Hygiene is Important:** Clean the magnets regularly with rubbing alcohol to prevent the buildup of bacteria.
* **Be Mindful of Activities:** Magnetic rings may not be suitable for all activities, such as swimming or strenuous exercise, as they can easily come loose.
* **Not Suitable for Pacemaker Users:** People with pacemakers should avoid magnetic piercings due to potential interference.
### 3. The Clip-On Septum Ring
Clip-on septum rings feature a small clip mechanism that attaches to your septum. These rings are often more secure than U-shaped rings, as the clip provides a more reliable grip.
**Materials You’ll Need:**
* **Clip-on septum ring:** These can be found online or in accessory stores. Look for rings with a comfortable and secure clip mechanism.
* **Mirror:** For precise placement.
* **Clean hands:** To prevent the transfer of bacteria.
**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
1. **Clean Your Hands:** Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. **Open the Clip:** Locate the clip mechanism on the ring and gently open it.
3. **Position the Ring:** Align the open clip with the sweet spot on your septum.
4. **Attach the Clip:** Carefully slide the clip onto your septum, ensuring it’s securely attached. You should hear or feel a slight click as the clip closes.
5. **Adjust for Comfort:** Ensure the ring is comfortable and doesn’t pinch. If it feels uncomfortable, try repositioning the clip slightly.
6. **Check the Appearance:** Look in the mirror to ensure the ring is centered and looks natural. Adjust the position as needed.
**Tips for Clip-On Septum Rings:**
* **Clip Quality:** Choose a ring with a high-quality clip mechanism that’s both secure and comfortable.
* **Proper Closure:** Ensure the clip is fully closed to prevent the ring from falling out.
* **Avoid Over-Tightening:** Don’t overtighten the clip, as this can cause discomfort or damage to your septum.
* **Regular Cleaning:** Clean the clip regularly with rubbing alcohol to prevent the buildup of bacteria.
* **Gentle Handling:** Handle the ring gently to avoid damaging the clip mechanism.
### 4. DIY Wire Septum Ring
For a truly custom and budget-friendly option, you can create your own fake septum ring using wire. This method allows you to create a ring that perfectly fits your nose and reflects your personal style.
**Materials You’ll Need:**
* **Craft wire:** Choose a flexible but sturdy wire, such as 20-gauge or 22-gauge wire. Silver, gold, or copper wire are popular choices. You can find craft wire at most craft stores or online.
* **Wire cutters:** For cutting the wire to the desired length.
* **Round-nose pliers:** For shaping the wire into a ring.
* **File or sandpaper (optional):** For smoothing the ends of the wire to prevent irritation.
* **Ruler:** For measuring the wire.
* **Marker:** For marking the wire.
* **Mirror:** For precise placement.
* **Clean hands:** To prevent the transfer of bacteria.
**Step-by-Step Instructions:**
1. **Clean Your Hands:** Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. **Measure and Cut the Wire:** Use a ruler to measure a length of wire approximately 4-6 inches long, depending on the desired size of your ring. Use wire cutters to cut the wire to the measured length.
3. **Shape the Wire into a U:** Use round-nose pliers to bend the wire into a U-shape. Start by gripping the wire with the pliers and gently curving it around the pliers’ nose. Repeat this process until you have a smooth, even U-shape.
4. **Create the Ends:** Use the round-nose pliers to create small loops at the ends of the U-shape. These loops will help prevent the wire from scratching or irritating your septum. Grip the end of the wire with the pliers and curve it around the pliers’ nose to form a small loop. Repeat on the other end.
5. **File or Sand the Ends (Optional):** Use a file or sandpaper to smooth the ends of the wire, especially the loops. This will further reduce the risk of irritation.
6. **Adjust the Size:** If the ring feels too tight or loose, gently adjust the U-shape to make it more comfortable. You can use the round-nose pliers to make small adjustments to the curve of the wire.
7. **Position the Ring:** Look in the mirror and locate the sweet spot on your septum. Carefully align the opening of the U-shape with your septum.
8. **Attach the Ring:** Gently squeeze the open ends of the U-shape together, so that the ring clasps onto your septum. Apply even pressure to avoid pinching.
9. **Check for Comfort:** Once the ring is in place, check for comfort. If it feels too tight, gently widen the opening. If it feels too loose, carefully squeeze the ends closer together. Make small adjustments until it feels secure and comfortable.
10. **Check the Appearance:** Look in the mirror to ensure the ring is centered and looks natural. Adjust the position as needed.
**Tips for DIY Wire Septum Rings:**
* **Choose the Right Wire:** Select a wire that’s both flexible and sturdy. 20-gauge or 22-gauge wire is a good choice.
* **Smooth the Ends:** Smoothing the ends of the wire is crucial to prevent irritation. Use a file or sandpaper to remove any sharp edges.
* **Experiment with Shapes:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes and designs. You can create a simple U-shape, a curved ring, or even add beads or charms to your wire ring.
* **Use Round-Nose Pliers:** Round-nose pliers are essential for shaping the wire into a smooth, even ring.
* **Be Patient:** Creating a DIY wire septum ring takes practice. Don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep practicing, and you’ll eventually create a ring that you love.
* **Consider Wire Material:** Opt for hypoallergenic wire, especially if you have sensitive skin.
## General Tips for Wearing Fake Septum Piercings
Regardless of the method you choose, here are some general tips for wearing fake septum piercings:
* **Start Slow:** If you’re new to wearing fake septum piercings, start by wearing them for short periods of time to get used to the feeling. Gradually increase the wearing time as you become more comfortable.
* **Avoid Wearing While Sleeping:** Remove your fake septum piercing before going to bed to prevent discomfort or accidental dislodging.
* **Clean Regularly:** Clean your fake septum piercing regularly with rubbing alcohol to prevent the buildup of bacteria.
* **Store Properly:** When you’re not wearing your fake septum piercing, store it in a clean, dry place to prevent damage or contamination.
* **Be Aware of Allergies:** If you have sensitive skin, choose materials that are hypoallergenic to avoid allergic reactions.
* **Consider Your Nose Shape:** The best type of fake septum piercing for you will depend on the shape of your nose. Experiment with different styles to find what looks and feels best.
* **Check for Comfort Regularly:** Throughout the day, check to make sure your fake septum piercing is still comfortable and secure. Adjust as needed.
* **Avoid Harsh Chemicals:** Keep your fake septum piercing away from harsh chemicals, such as perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays, as these can damage the material.
* **Handle with Care:** Handle your fake septum piercing with care to avoid bending, breaking, or scratching it.
## Styling Your Fake Septum Piercing
Now that you know how to create and wear a fake septum piercing, let’s talk about styling it!
* **Match Your Style:** Choose a style of septum ring that complements your personal style. If you’re a minimalist, opt for a simple silver or gold ring. If you’re more adventurous, try a jeweled or ornate ring.
* **Consider Your Outfit:** Think about how your septum ring will coordinate with your outfit. A simple ring can be worn with almost anything, while a more elaborate ring might be best suited for special occasions.
* **Experiment with Layering:** If you have other piercings, consider layering your septum ring with other jewelry for a unique and eye-catching look.
* **Play with Color:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors. A brightly colored septum ring can add a pop of color to your outfit.
* **Balance Your Look:** If you’re wearing a bold septum ring, keep the rest of your jewelry simple to avoid overwhelming your look.
## Conclusion
Creating a fake septum piercing is a fun, easy, and affordable way to experiment with your style. With so many different methods and styles to choose from, you’re sure to find a faux piercing that you love. So go ahead, embrace your inner rebel and rock that septum ring with confidence! Remember to prioritize comfort and hygiene, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect look for you.