Some nose pin screws are too tight to remove if worn for a long period of time. Others are difficult to remove because they may be causing pain or, in the case of people who had nose pins inserted during childhood, may have become covered by nose tissue as the nose has developed. Certain wearers simply wish to remove their nose piercings for special occasions like weddings or job interviews. In any case, there is a simple, painless method of removal which should, if carried out correctly, result in a clean, small hole that will heal in time.

Ensure sanitized equipment is utilized during the procedure and make sure the area is treated before and after removal of the nose pin with an antiseptic lotion.

Use petroleum jelly to help loosen the nose pin and individual nose pin components.

Detach any inner securing pieces, like metal stoppers or clips, as these will prevent you from removing the nose pin.

Push gently from the inside of the nose until you see more of the pole exposed. Use minimum pressure at all times.

When you can see enough of the head of the pin, take hold of it and gently pull from the outside. It should loosen gradually and eventually pull out completely.

Consult a professional ear and nose piercing specialist or tattooist if you prefer not to complete the removal of the nose pin yourself. Make sure they are regulated by the local health department and are licensed.

If the piercing is infected or sore and the pin head and pole is visible and accessible, carefully cut the head off the nostril pole with nail trimmers or cuticle scissors. If the pole of the nose pin is too short to cut, do not attempt to do so as you may cause damage to the surrounding nose tissue. If this is the case, and the wearer needs the nose pin removed (for a job interview or such) you will need to visit an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor. The procedure for surgical removal takes around half an hour and uses a laser knife. The procedure use local anesthetic and is not painful.