Bridge piercing: A surface piercing placed on the nasal bridge between the eyes.

This body modification sits on the skin of the nose bridge, typically centered between the eyes. It emerged in the late twentieth century within modern body art circles and is often called an Erl. While it serves as a decorative statement, it carries specific risks associated with surface piercings, such as migration or rejection.

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Placed on the skin of the nasal bridge between the eyes.
Popularized by piercer Erik Dakota in the 1980s.
Classified as a surface piercing with high rejection risk.
Often uses straight barbells or specialized surface bars.
No known ancient or indigenous historical origins.

What it is

This adornment passes through the skin on the upper part of the nose, specifically the bridge. It sits horizontally between the eyes. Because it does not go through cartilage or bone, it is classified as a surface piercing. The most common jewelry used is a straight barbell, though curved bars or surface anchors are also options. Once healed, some wearers switch to rings, but these must be shaped carefully to avoid pressure that could push the jewelry out.

History and origin

Unlike ancient nostril or septum modifications, this style has no deep historical roots in indigenous cultures. It appeared during the late twentieth century alongside the rise of contemporary body art. Erik Dakota, a professional piercer, is widely credited with popularizing the look in the 1980s. He reportedly named it the Erl after Erl Van Aken, an early adopter. The style found a home in punk and alternative scenes during the 1990s, gaining visibility through zines and early online communities.

What it means

The piercing functions primarily as a form of personal expression and aesthetic choice. It signals affiliation with body modification culture rather than religious or tribal status. In the early 2000s, as piercings entered the mainstream, this specific style remained somewhat niche due to its technical challenges. It represents a commitment to a distinctive look, despite the known difficulties in maintaining it long term.

The science

As a surface piercing, it carries a higher likelihood of rejection compared to piercings that pass through tissue flaps or cartilage. The body may treat the jewelry as a foreign object and push it out over time. Migration is a common complication, where the hole moves from its original position. Scarring can occur if the jewelry is removed or rejected. Misconceptions exist about health risks, such as eye crossing or brain infections via sinuses, but these are not supported by anatomical evidence.

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In culture

The style is associated with the alternative and punk movements of the 1990s. It gained recognition through body modification publications and digital forums. While not tied to a specific celebrity mainstream fame, it is well known within piercing communities. Erik Dakota and Erl Van Aken are key figures in its history. The piercing remains a symbol of individuality for those willing to manage its upkeep.

Questions people ask about Bridge piercing

What is a bridge piercing?

It is a surface piercing that goes through the skin on the bridge of the nose, typically positioned directly between the eyes. It is considered a modern body modification without ancient historical roots.

Why is it sometimes called an Erl?

Piercer Erik Dakota reportedly coined the term in the 1980s. He named it after Erl Van Aken, one of the first people to wear this specific piercing regularly.

What are the main risks?

Because it is a surface piercing, there is a high risk of rejection and migration. The body may push the jewelry out, and removal can lead to scarring. Proper jewelry shape is critical to reduce pressure.

Can you wear rings in a bridge piercing?

Yes, but only after healing. A captive bead ring or D-ring may be used, but the shape must be chosen carefully to prevent migration caused by pressure from the ring's curve.

Good reading and sources

Where this page comes from

The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Bridge piercing", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryFaceShape rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.

It may contain mistakes, and figures change over time. Nothing here is investment or buying advice. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.

Bridge piercing