The distinct, often unpleasant odor emanating from a septum piercing is a common experience, frequently nicknamed “piercing funk.” This phenomenon is almost always a normal biological byproduct of having a healed or healing piercing. The smell is rarely an indication of a serious health problem, resulting instead from natural bodily processes within the piercing channel. Understanding the source of the smell is the first step toward managing it effectively.
The Biological Source of the Odor
The root cause of the smell lies in the accumulation and breakdown of organic compounds within the fistula, the healed tunnel of skin surrounding the jewelry. The body constantly produces sebum, a waxy, oily substance secreted by sebaceous glands, which is deposited into the piercing channel.
This sebum mixes with shed keratin, the structural protein found in dead skin cells sloughed off the lining. The warm, moist environment creates an ideal habitat for localized anaerobic bacteria. These bacteria feed on the mixture, breaking down the organic material.
The resulting metabolic waste products often contain volatile sulfur compounds. These compounds are responsible for the characteristic pungent, sometimes “cheesy” or sulfurous, odor released when the jewelry is moved or cleaned. This buildup is a sign that the body is functioning normally.
Distinguishing Normal Odor from Infection
While a mild, cheesy odor is a normal sign of sebum and keratin buildup, it must be differentiated from an actual infection. A healthy piercing may produce a thin, whitish-clear discharge, but the smell alone is not a reliable indicator of a serious issue.
An infected septum piercing presents with specific, localized warning signs. Look for thick, discolored discharge that is typically yellow or green, which is indicative of pus. This discharge usually has a much stronger, distinctly unpleasant smell that differs from the cheesy funk.
Other indicators of infection include significant swelling beyond the piercing site, throbbing pain, and localized heat. If you experience these intense symptoms, especially if accompanied by a fever or red streaking, seek professional medical attention.
Effective Cleaning and Prevention Methods
Managing the natural odor requires consistent, gentle hygiene focused on removing accumulated organic material without irritating the piercing channel. Regular cleaning is the most effective preventative measure, minimizing the buildup of sebum and dead skin cells that feed the odor-producing bacteria.
For cleaning, a sterile saline wound wash is the preferred solution because it is isotonic and gentle on the tissue. Spray this solution directly onto the piercing site or use it to soak the area to thoroughly rinse the jewelry and the fistula. A gentle, non-fragranced soap can be used occasionally to clean the jewelry itself, but sparingly to avoid drying out the skin.
If the piercing is fully healed, gently slide or rotate the jewelry a few times during cleaning to help dislodge trapped buildup. Avoid excessive manipulation, as this can irritate the delicate fistula lining. Always rinse the area thoroughly with clean water after using any soap.
Harsh antiseptic chemicals, such as alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or strong antibacterial soaps, should never be used on the piercing. These products are cytotoxic; they can damage healthy skin cells, dry out the tissue, and disrupt the natural bacterial balance. The goal is gentle maintenance, not aggressive sterilization.
How Jewelry Material Affects Smell Retention
The material of your septum jewelry plays a significant role in how much odor is retained and produced. Certain materials are more prone to trapping bacteria and sebum, which intensifies the characteristic piercing funk. Porosity is a primary factor, as surface irregularities provide more places for organic matter to collect and harbor bacteria.
Materials like high-quality, implant-grade titanium, solid 14k or 18k gold, and glass are considered the least porous and most biocompatible options. These smooth, non-reactive surfaces resist the adhesion of the sebum-keratin mixture, making them less likely to retain a strong smell. Switching to one of these materials can significantly reduce odor, even with consistent cleaning.
Conversely, materials such as acrylic, silicone, and low-grade or plated metal alloys are often more porous. Acrylic and silicone, in particular, can absorb and trap the odor-causing compounds, acting like a sponge within the piercing channel. If the odor persists despite excellent hygiene, changing your jewelry to a non-porous, implant-grade option is the most effective solution.