What Is A Rhino Piercing? Everything You Need To Know

What's a rhino piercing? Don't worry, it's not something we do to the endangered beast — instead, it's a type of nose piercing. If you'd like something a little more unusual than a standard nostril piercing, for example, it might be the right piercing for you. It's one that looks good alongside other nose piercings, like a nostril or bridge piercing, or equally as effective on its own, so it's pretty versatile.

Many people aren't aware of rhino piercings — if that includes you, don't worry, because you're not alone! It's pretty uncommon in the West, and until very recently was largely seen among people in some African and South American cultures (via TheTrendSpotter). However, it might be on the rise as more people become aware of the piercing and decide to give it a go. That's why we've included things you need to know right here. Could it be your next piercing? 

Per TheTrendSpotter, "the name comes from the similarity it has to a rhino horn, especially when tipped with a spiked end." The needle goes vertically through the tip of the nose, sort of like an inverse septum piercing, and it's a piercing that not a lot of piercers will have previously done.

Speaking to Byrdie, TK Garcia — who has 30 years of piercing experience — said that they'd only ever done one, as it's "not a common piercing at all." It's not one that heals quickly, either, which might be part of the reason why. Not only that, but it's generally considered to be a rather painful piercing too. "The very few people that have them say that they are fairly painful, but again, pain is a matter of perspective," explained Garcia.

Getting a rhino piercing is a pretty simple process, involving "a standard piercing needle and curved barbell. However, the cartilage at the tip of the nose is much more complex, so positioning and technique need to be perfect to avoid damage and unnecessary trauma," per TheTrendSpotter. As for healing time, expect a minimum six to nine months, but don't be surprised if it takes up to a year, according to Pierce Journal. To help your piercing heal, "you will want to rinse your piercing site with a saline solution soak or spray at least twice a day," the outlet notes. "Alternatively, and honestly a better option, is to simply dip your piercing into a bowl of saline solution!" And of course, keep your hands off your new piercing to avoid the risk of infection by introducing bacteria. 

Rhino piercings are certainly one way to stand out from the crowd — but only if you can withstand the pain and are patient about healing time.