How to Change Septum Jewelry Safely and Easily

Changing septum jewelry is much easier when I prepare everything before removing the old piece. I make sure the piercing is fully healed, choose the right replacement jewelry, wash my hands, and set up a mirror with good lighting before I start.

The part I take most seriously is avoiding force. If the new septum jewelry does not slide through easily, I stop instead of pushing it. A horseshoe, clicker, seamless ring, and segment ring also have different opening and closing methods, so I never treat every piece the same way.

If this is your first jewelry change, a professional piercer can also show you how your particular piece works. Once a septum piercing is fully healed and you know the jewelry mechanism, changing it can become a simple routine.

Before You Change Your Septum Jewelry

Before I change septum jewelry, I first make sure the piercing is ready.

I look for signs such as:

• No ongoing tenderness
• No swelling
• No persistent crusting
• No unusual discharge
• No irritation
• No pain during normal movement
• Enough healing time has passed

I would not change a septum piercing just because a certain number of weeks has passed. Healing can vary from person to person.

If the piercing is still healing, I would have a piercer handle any needed jewelry change. For a normal style change, I prefer to wait until the piercing is fully healed.

If you want more detail about the timing, see my guide on when you can change a septum piercing.

What I Need to Change Septum Jewelry

I do not need a long list of equipment.

Before I start, I prepare:

• New septum jewelry
• Clean hands
• A clean work area
• A mirror
• Good lighting
• Clean paper towels if needed

I also have the replacement jewelry ready before removing the old piece.

This saves me from having an empty piercing while I search for a new ring.

Check the New Jewelry Before Removing the Old Piece

I always check the new septum jewelry first.

I look at:

• Gauge
• Diameter
• Material
• Closure type
• Surface finish
• Overall condition

I make sure the jewelry does not have rough edges, cracks, damaged threads, or loose parts.

I also make sure the new piece is suitable for my piercing. A different gauge or diameter can make insertion much harder, so I do not buy a piece based only on how it looks.

If you are unsure about gauge or diameter, my Septum Piercing Gauge and Size Guide covers those measurements in more detail.

Septum Jewelry Closure Cheat Sheet

Before changing the jewelry, I first identify how it opens.

Jewelry type	How it usually opens	How it closes
Horseshoe	One end usually unscrews	Screw the end back on
Clicker	Hinged section opens	Hinge clicks shut
Seamless ring	Ring is opened with controlled movement	Ends are brought back together
Segment ring	Removable segment comes out	Segment locks back into place
Circular barbell	One end usually unscrews	Screw the end back on

The exact mechanism can vary between jewelry pieces, so I check the actual piece before trying to open it.

How to Change Septum Jewelry Step by Step

Once I know the piercing is ready and the new jewelry is prepared, I follow these steps.

Step 1: Wash My Hands

I wash my hands thoroughly before touching my septum or jewelry.

I pay attention to my fingertips and underneath my nails because these areas can easily collect dirt and oils.

I also make sure my work surface is clean.

Step 2: Prepare the New Jewelry

I inspect the replacement piece one more time.

I make sure the closure works properly and that the jewelry is clean and ready to insert.

I keep it somewhere clean and within easy reach.

Step 3: Set Up a Mirror and Good Lighting

I prefer to change septum jewelry in front of a mirror.

Good lighting makes a big difference because the piercing sits inside the nose and can be difficult to see.

If I need both hands, I position myself so I can clearly see what I am doing without having to rush.

I also avoid changing jewelry directly over an open sink. Small jewelry ends are surprisingly easy to drop.

Step 4: Open the Existing Jewelry

The opening method depends on the jewelry.

A horseshoe usually has a removable end. A clicker has a hinge. A seamless ring requires a different technique.

I identify the closure before applying any pressure.

If I cannot figure out how the piece opens, I would rather ask a piercer than risk damaging the jewelry or irritating the piercing.

Step 5: Remove the Old Jewelry

Once the jewelry is open, I gently guide it out of the piercing.

I do not pull aggressively.

If the jewelry feels stuck or the piercing becomes painful, I stop.

There is no benefit in forcing a jewelry change.

Step 6: Prepare for Insertion

Before inserting the replacement, I make sure the new jewelry and my hands are clean.

I also check the jewelry one more time for the correct gauge and diameter.

If the piercing feels unusually tight, I do not try to push a larger piece through it.

Step 7: Insert the New Jewelry

I line the new septum jewelry up with the existing piercing channel.

Then I gently guide it through.

This is the part where I take my time.

The jewelry should not need to be forced through the tissue. If I feel strong resistance or sharp pain, I stop instead of pushing harder.

Step 8: Secure the Jewelry

Once the new piece is in place, I secure it according to its design.

For example:

• I screw the end onto a horseshoe.
• I close the hinge on a clicker.
• I reconnect the segment on a segment ring.
• I close a seamless ring correctly.

I make sure the closure is secure without overtightening it.

Step 9: Check the Fit

Finally, I look in the mirror and check how the jewelry sits.

I make sure it is:

• Comfortable
• Secure
• Not excessively tight
• Not pressing into the tissue
• Sitting in the correct position

Once everything looks right, I leave it alone instead of repeatedly moving the jewelry around.

How to Change a Horseshoe Septum Ring

A horseshoe septum ring is one of the more straightforward styles to change.

It has a curved shape with removable ends, although the exact closure can vary.

I start by washing my hands and preparing the new piece.

Then I:

1. Hold the horseshoe securely.
2. Unscrew one end.
3. Gently guide the old jewelry out.
4. Position the new horseshoe.
5. Guide it through the piercing.
6. Screw the end back on.
7. Check that the end is secure.

I avoid gripping the ring too tightly because that makes it harder to control.

I also keep the removable end somewhere safe while changing the jewelry.

How to Change a Septum Clicker

A septum clicker uses a hinge instead of a screw-on end.

I first locate the hinged section.

Then I:

1. Wash my hands.
2. Hold the clicker securely.
3. Open the hinged section.
4. Remove the old jewelry.
5. Position the new clicker.
6. Guide it through the piercing.
7. Close the hinge.
8. Check that it has locked properly.

I do not yank the hinged section open.

If I cannot tell where the hinge is, I look closely at the jewelry before applying pressure.

How to Change a Seamless Septum Ring

A seamless septum ring needs more care because it does not have an obvious clasp.

I would not simply pull the two ends away from each other.

The ring needs to be opened in a controlled way so its shape is not badly distorted.

For someone changing this type for the first time, I think having a piercer demonstrate the technique is a smart choice.

If the ring becomes badly bent, it may no longer sit correctly in the piercing.

How to Change a Segment Septum Ring

A segment ring has a removable section that keeps the ring closed.

I first identify how that segment locks into place.

Then I:

1. Wash my hands.
2. Open the segment according to the jewelry design.
3. Remove the old piece.
4. Insert the replacement ring.
5. Reconnect the segment.
6. Check that the segment is completely secure.

The exact mechanism can differ between jewelry brands and designs, so I follow the construction of the piece rather than assuming every segment ring works the same way.

How to Put New Septum Jewelry In

Putting new jewelry in can be harder than removing the old piece.

I hold the jewelry carefully and line it up with the piercing opening.

Then I gently guide it through the existing channel.

I do not push through resistance.

If the jewelry starts going in and suddenly stops, I check the angle and size instead of applying more pressure.

A common mistake is assuming that a little extra force will make the jewelry pass through. I would avoid that approach because forcing jewelry can injure the tissue.

What If My New Septum Jewelry Won’t Go In?

If my new septum jewelry won’t go in, I stop.

There can be several reasons:

• The piercing is not fully healed.
• The gauge is wrong.
• The diameter is different.
• The piercing has tightened.
• The jewelry shape is different.
• The insertion angle is wrong.
• The jewelry has a rough or damaged surface.
• The piercing has become irritated.

I would not keep pushing the jewelry through.

If it does not slide in easily, I would have a professional piercer check the piercing and jewelry.

What If I Removed My Septum Ring and the New One Won’t Go Back In?

This is a situation where I would act quickly but calmly.

I would not keep poking around with the new jewelry trying to find the channel.

First, I would check whether the replacement has the same gauge as the old piece. I would also check the diameter and shape.

If everything looks correct but the jewelry still will not pass through easily, I would stop and contact a piercer.

The piercing can tighten after jewelry is removed, and trying to push the new piece through can cause unnecessary irritation.

The safest approach is to have someone experienced assess the channel rather than trying to create a new path through the tissue.

What If My Septum Ring Is Stuck?

If the existing jewelry is stuck, I first identify its closure mechanism.

For a horseshoe, I check the removable end.

For a clicker, I look for the hinge.

For a segment ring, I identify the removable section.

I do not grab household tools and start pulling or twisting.

If the jewelry still will not open, I would let a professional piercer remove it.

Can You Change Septum Jewelry at Home?

Yes, a fully healed septum piercing can usually be changed at home if the jewelry is suitable and the change can be done without force.

I would only do it myself when:

• The piercing is fully healed.
• I know how the jewelry opens.
• The new jewelry is the correct size.
• My hands and work area are clean.
• I have good lighting.
• The jewelry can be inserted without force.

If the piercing is still healing, I would have a piercer perform the change.

I would also choose a piercer if this is my first jewelry change and I am nervous about doing it myself.

Should a Piercer Change My Septum Jewelry?

For a first change, I think a piercer is a good option.

A professional can check the piercing, confirm the jewelry size, and show me how the specific closure works.

I would especially choose a piercer if:

• The piercing is still healing.
• The jewelry will not come out.
• The replacement will not go in.
• I want to change the gauge.
• The piercing is irritated.
• I am using a complicated jewelry design.
• I do not know the correct size.

Once I know the correct technique, later jewelry changes may feel much easier.

Same Gauge vs Different Gauge

This is something I would check before every jewelry purchase.

If I am replacing a 16G septum ring with another 16G ring, I am making a normal jewelry change.

If I move from 16G to 14G, the new jewelry is thicker. That is a gauge change rather than a simple replacement.

I would not force a larger piece into the piercing.

If I want to move to a larger gauge, I would ask a professional piercer about the correct process.

Gauge and diameter are also different measurements. Gauge refers to the thickness of the jewelry, while diameter describes the size of the ring itself.

What to Do After Changing Septum Jewelry

Once the new jewelry is in, I leave it alone.

I avoid repeatedly spinning, flipping, pulling, or adjusting it.

I also watch how the piercing feels over the next several hours.

A little awareness of the area is one thing, but increasing pain, swelling, redness, or other unusual changes deserve attention.

I would not immediately change the jewelry again just because I want to try another style.

I prefer to give the piercing time to settle before making another change.

How Long Should I Leave My Septum Jewelry Out?

I try to keep the time without jewelry as short as possible.

I prepare the replacement piece before removing the old one.

This is especially important if the piercing is newer or has only recently finished healing.

Even healed piercings can tighten after jewelry is removed, and some people find that reinserting jewelry becomes difficult.

That is why I never remove my septum ring first and then start looking for a replacement.

What If I Cannot Find the Piercing Hole?

If I remove my jewelry and cannot find the opening, I do not keep poking around.

I would first check my position, lighting, and the angle of the jewelry.

If I still cannot locate the channel, I would stop and visit a professional piercer.

I would never try to create a new path through the tissue with jewelry.

What If Changing My Septum Jewelry Hurts?

If changing the jewelry causes sharp pain, I stop.

Pain can happen because the piercing is irritated, the jewelry is the wrong size, the angle is wrong, or the piercing is not ready for a change.

I would not assume that I simply need to push harder.

If the pain continues after the attempted change, I would leave the piercing alone and have a piercer assess it if needed.

What If My Septum Bleeds After Changing Jewelry?

If the piercing starts bleeding while I am changing jewelry, I stop manipulating it.

I would not continue trying different rings.

If the bleeding continues or comes with significant pain, swelling, or other concerning symptoms, I would seek appropriate medical care.

For a jewelry-related problem, I would also consider having my piercer check the piercing before trying another change.

How to Choose New Septum Jewelry

Before changing my jewelry, I check more than the appearance.

I consider:

• Gauge
• Diameter
• Material
• Surface finish
• Closure
• Weight
• Overall fit

I want the jewelry to feel comfortable as well as look good.

A beautiful ring that is too tight, too heavy, damaged, or difficult to close is not a good choice for me.

If you are comparing jewelry styles, my guide to Septum Piercing Jewelry Types and Styles covers the main options separately.

What Jewelry Material Should I Choose?

For a healed septum piercing, I still prefer good-quality jewelry with a smooth finish.

Titanium is one material I would consider because it is lightweight and commonly used for body jewelry.

I also check the surface carefully. Scratches, rough edges, cracks, and poor finishing can make jewelry less comfortable.

I would not choose a piece only because it is inexpensive or looks good in a product photo.

If you want to compare materials in more detail, see my guide to the Best Metal for Septum Piercing Jewelry.

Common Septum Jewelry Changing Mistakes

Changing Jewelry Too Early

I would not change my jewelry simply because I am bored with the original piece.

If the piercing is still healing, I would wait or have a piercer handle the change.

Using Dirty Hands

I always wash my hands before touching the piercing.

Using Dirty Jewelry

I prepare the new piece before inserting it.

Choosing the Wrong Size

I check the gauge and diameter before buying replacement jewelry.

Forcing the New Jewelry

This is the biggest mistake I would avoid.

If the jewelry does not slide through easily, I stop.

Opening a Seamless Ring Incorrectly

I use the proper opening method instead of pulling the ends apart randomly.

Losing a Small Jewelry End

I change jewelry over a clean surface and keep small pieces away from the sink.

Leaving the Piercing Empty

I have the new jewelry ready before removing the old piece.

Changing Too Many Times

After a fresh jewelry change, I give the piercing time to settle instead of switching pieces repeatedly.

How Often Can I Change Septum Jewelry?

Once my septum piercing is fully healed, I can change the jewelry when I want a different style.

I still avoid unnecessary handling.

Every change involves touching the piercing, so I prefer to make each change carefully rather than constantly switching between rings.

If a new piece causes irritation, I stop using it and check whether the problem is related to the size, material, finish, or fit.

Can I Change Septum Jewelry After Flipping It Up?

If the piercing is fully healed, flipping the jewelry up does not change the basic process of changing it.

I first bring the jewelry into a position where I can see and handle it comfortably.

Then I remove it according to its closure type and insert the replacement.

If the piercing is still healing, I would avoid repeatedly flipping, removing, and changing the jewelry.

What If the New Jewelry Feels Tight?

If the new jewelry feels tight, I do not ignore it.

The diameter may be smaller than my previous ring, or the piercing may still have some swelling.

I would check the size before continuing to wear it.

If the jewelry is pressing into the tissue, I would choose a better-fitting piece or have a piercer check it.

Good septum jewelry should sit comfortably rather than squeezing the piercing.

What If the New Jewelry Is Too Loose?

A little movement does not automatically mean there is a problem.

However, jewelry that is much too large can move around, catch on things, or sit awkwardly.

I would check the diameter and compare it with the jewelry I know fits me well.

If the piece is clearly too large, I would ask my piercer about a better size.

My Simple Septum Jewelry Change Checklist

Before changing my jewelry, I check:

• Is the piercing fully healed?
• Is there no ongoing tenderness?
• Is there no swelling?
• Is there no unusual discharge?
• Have I washed my hands?
• Is the new jewelry clean?
• Is my work area clean?
• Do I know how the jewelry opens?
• Is the gauge correct?
• Is the diameter suitable?
• Do I have good lighting?
• Do I have a mirror?
• Is the new jewelry ready before I remove the old piece?

If these things are ready, the process is much easier.

Final Thoughts

I find changing septum jewelry much easier when I prepare everything before removing the old piece. I make sure the piercing is fully healed, choose the correct jewelry, wash my hands, use good lighting, and take my time.

The biggest thing I avoid is forcing jewelry through the piercing. If the new piece will not go in easily, I stop instead of pushing through the resistance.

I also keep in mind that every jewelry style works a little differently. Horseshoes, clickers, seamless rings, and segment rings have different opening and closing methods.

For a first change, I would have a piercer do it if I am unsure. Once the septum is fully healed and I know how my jewelry works, changing it becomes much easier.

My basic rule is simple: prepare first, use the right jewelry, handle the piercing gently, and never force a piece that does not want to go in.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you change septum jewelry?

I first make sure the piercing is fully healed. Then I wash my hands, prepare the new jewelry, remove the existing piece according to its closure type, gently insert the replacement, and secure it.

Can you change septum jewelry at home?

Yes, a fully healed septum piercing can usually be changed at home when the jewelry fits correctly and can be inserted without force. If the piercing is still healing or the jewelry will not go in easily, I would have a piercer handle it.

How do you change a septum ring?

The process depends on the jewelry style. A horseshoe usually has a removable end, a clicker uses a hinge, and a seamless ring requires a controlled opening technique.

How do you remove septum jewelry?

I first identify the jewelry type and use the correct opening mechanism. I avoid pulling, twisting, or forcing the jewelry.

How do you put a septum ring back in?

I line the jewelry up with the existing piercing channel and gently guide it through. If it does not go in easily, I stop rather than forcing it.

How do you change a horseshoe septum ring?

I usually unscrew one end, guide the old jewelry out, insert the new horseshoe, and secure the removable end.

How do you change a septum clicker?

I locate the hinge, open the clicker, remove the old piece, insert the new clicker, and close the hinge until it is secure.

How do you change a seamless septum ring?

A seamless ring requires a controlled opening method rather than simply pulling the ends apart. If I am unfamiliar with the technique, I would have a piercer handle it.

What if my new septum jewelry won’t go in?

I stop and do not force it. I check the gauge, diameter, jewelry shape, and angle. If it still will not go in easily, I would have a professional piercer help.

Can I change my septum jewelry myself?

I would only change it myself once the piercing is fully healed and I am confident about the jewelry type, size, and opening mechanism.

Should a piercer change my septum jewelry?

I would choose a piercer for a first change, a jewelry change during healing, a difficult jewelry style, a gauge change, or any situation where the jewelry will not come out or go in easily.

How long should I wait before changing septum jewelry?

I would wait until the piercing is fully healed rather than relying on one fixed time period. It should also be free from ongoing tenderness, swelling, crusting, and irritation.

Why does my septum hurt after changing jewelry?

The jewelry may have irritated the piercing, may be the wrong size, or the piercing may not have been fully healed. I would stop manipulating it and have it checked if the pain continues.

What should I do if my septum starts bleeding after changing jewelry?

I would stop changing the jewelry and avoid further manipulation. If bleeding continues or there is significant pain or swelling, I would seek appropriate medical care.

Can I change to a different septum gauge?

I would not force a different gauge into the piercing. If I want a larger size, I would ask a professional piercer about the proper process.

What if my septum jewelry is stuck?

I identify the closure mechanism and try the correct method gently. If it still will not open, I would have a piercer remove it.

What should I do after changing my septum jewelry?

I leave the new jewelry alone, avoid unnecessary touching or spinning, and watch for irritation. I also avoid immediately changing it again.

How often can I change septum jewelry?

After the piercing is fully healed, I can change jewelry when I want a different style. I still avoid unnecessary handling and give the piercing time to settle after each change.