Ear Gauge Sizes Explained: Understanding Earlobe Piercing Sizing and Dimensions
Earring gauge sizes (Ear Gauge Sizes) represent the sizing options available to stretch ears based on the uniform standard of measurement used in the body jewelry industry. The sizes range from 20g to 00g which incrementally represent a spread of about 10mm which is a sizable difference notated using the Gauge System, represented by "g" or "ga" in units of measurement.
Ear gauge sizes are vital to stretching as they help you navigate the dimensions of jewelry for inserting into stretched ears. Stretch them too far, though, and the stretched earlobes may hit the 'point of no return' resulting in the lobes not closing-up in the future, if desired.
Stretching to 2 gauge (6mm) is seen as irreversible as the piercing hole won't close-up when the jewelry is removed according to The American Academy of Pediatrics (2017). So how can you balance the desire to stretch while being mindful of not stretching too far with ear gauge sizes? That's where confusion with sizing sets in.
As a result of questions arise regarding ear stretching gauge sizes, determining ear gauge sizes after 1 inch, and advancing to proper gauge sizes with items that you find in an ear gauge kit. In this guide, we cover those topics along with evaluating an actual size ear gauge chart to reference while stretching, how to compare sizes using the charts, along with what else to know when it comes to the ear gauge sizes.
Contents
- Ear Gauge Size Chart With Pictures
- How to Use Ear Gauge Size Charts to Compare Different Sizes?
- What is the correct way for measuring ear gauge sizes?
- What are the common ear gauge sizes used in the stretching process?
- What are the standard ear gauge sizes for initial piercings?
- What else to Know About Ear Gauge Sizes for Stretching Earlobe Piercings
- What To Do If You Choose the Wrong Size Ear Gauge?
For over a decade, Plug Your Holes has been your trusted source for top-quality stretching jewelry and insightful information for piercing stretching. This guide is a testament to that commitment, and we've gathered essential data on the ear gauge sizes, offering you a clear understanding of the measurements involved in earlobe stretching.
So whether you're looking for the perfect size or trying not to choose a wrong size that could cause issues, our guide has got you covered!
Ear Gauge Size Chart With Pictures
Gauge measurements are typically represented in two ways: as a gauge number (like 20G or 00G), and as an actual measurement in millimeters or inches.
The chart below has pictures so you can see the size of the piercing hole to compare in a visual way.
| GAUGE (G) | Represented Look |
| 20g |
|
| 18g |
|
| 16g |
|
| 14g |
|
| 12g |
|
| 10g |
|
| 8g |
|
| 6g |
|
| 4g |
|
| 2g |
|
| 0g |
|
| 00g |
|
These charts give you a visual representation of various sizes, making it a breeze to understand and compare. View the Gauge Sizes for Body Jewelry which is useful for those with septum or nose piercings, too.
Easy-to-read conversion tables can provide a clear visual representation of how the ear gauge size chart and sizes correspond to measurements in millimeters or inches. Understanding the sizing of ear gauges can be made simpler with the use of a conversion table.
How to Use Ear Gauge Size Charts to Compare Different Sizes?
To pick the perfect ear gauge size, a handy ear gauge size chart can be your best friend.
Want to get your ear gauges just right? Here's the lowdown on gauge sizes in millimeters (mm) and inches (in).
Ear Gauge to Inch to MM
| GAUGE (G) | INCHES (decimal) | MILLIMETERS (mm) |
| 20g | 0.03" | 0.81 mm |
| 18g | 0.039" | 1 mm |
| 16g | 0.047" | 1.2 mm |
| 14g | 0.063" | 1.6 mm |
| 12g | 0.079" | 2 mm |
| 10g | 0.094" | 2.4 mm |
| 8g | 0.118" | 3 mm |
| 6g | 0.157" | 4 mm |
| 4g | 0.197" | 5 mm |
| 2g | 0.258" | 6 mm |
| 0g | 0.325" | 8 mm |
| 00g | 0.365" | 10 mm |
Learn how to convert these gauge sizes into millimeters or inches using the conversion chart for a more practical understanding.
A chart with conversions can help you comprehend the progression in sizes as you increase your size.The conversion chart serves as a guide for those new to stretching, providing a straightforward way to understand the size of the piercing jewelry you're considering.
Knowing these ear gauge to mm sizes helps you stretch your ears with precision. No guesswork needed.
What is the correct way for measuring ear gauge sizes?
Measure your piercing with a ruler or tape measure. You can also measure the diameter of the plug; just remember to subtract 1/16th" (approx. 1.588 mm) from that number you use as the measurement, as the wearing surface of the flared area is indented that amount most of the time with plugs.
For a more precise measurement of your ear's gauge size, you can use a pair of calipers for larger sized gauges (for millimeters and inches) or a gauge wheel (not for inches nor millimeters) to measure the exact size in the Gauge (G) System.
What are the common ear gauge sizes used in the stretching process?
20g to 00g are the range of sizes for gauges, with beginners typically aiming for a 14 gauge stretch and then stretching up to 12 gauge, in some cases. Gradually increasing your piercing size to accommodate larger ear gauge sizes is what the journey is all about.
What are the standard ear gauge sizes for initial piercings?
The standard ear piercing size is usually 18G. You might spot piercing needle gauges up to 20g in different types of body piercings. It really just depends on the size of the needle the local piercer uses.
What else to Know About Ear Gauge Sizes for Stretching Earlobe Piercings
When it comes to stretching your piercings, understanding the correct ear gauge sizes are important. Below we discuss getting the timing right and selecting proper sized jewelry to better understand the importance of getting the proper ear gauge sizes for your ears.
1. Time the Stretches Right
Choose the correct size based on your ear's readiness, not your eagerness to reach a specific size.
Give your body enough time to heal between ear gauge sizes. Wait at least six weeks before moving up sizes stretching ears, and If you still see redness or swelling after this period, hold off on the next size stretch until you're fully healed.
When considering a larger gauge size, it's crucial to remember that patience is key. Only increase by one size at a time, and allow time between stretches as it is necessary to maintain the health of your earlobes. Rushing to larger gauges can lead to risks ranging from mild to more serious.
2. Choose the Right Type of Jewelry to Gauge
You need the right sized piece of jewelry in your ear at any given time. The term 'gauge piece' typically refers to the actual jewelry - be it ear plugs, tunnels, circular barbells or even a taper - that you insert into your stretched piercing.
It's important to choose a piece, such as a plug, that matches your current gauge size to protect the earlobes. Ear gauge sizing is an essential aspect of this process. This sizing method corresponds to the thickness or diameter of the jewelry. Understanding the gauge measuring system for ear stretches ensures you select the correct sizes for stretching your ears, leading to a safer and more comfortable stretching experience.
The intricate process of stretching your earlobes requires a keen understanding of size, and the unique anatomy of your stretched ears. Ear stretching sizing is simple once you know the gauging system!
What To Do If You Choose the Wrong Size Ear Gauge?
If you choose the wrong size ear gauge, it's important to take action as soon as possible. If the jewelry is too big or too small for your piercing, this can cause irritation and discomfort. Additionally, if the jewelry is too large for your piercing, this can lead to tears or other issues to avoid.
How do I ensure finding the right size?
Watch the video below of Founder of Plug Your Holes, Sam Dean, explain the differences in sizes and what you can do to ensure to get the right size. Use the sizing charts to find the right size and let us know if you run into any issues.
What is the process for downsizing ear gauge sizes?
The process for downsizing ear gauge sizes is just as important as the process of stretching and is done with the same levels of patience in order to ensure a safe and comfortable transition. Downsizing begins by selecting jewelry that is slightly smaller than your current gauge size, but still comfortably fits in your earlobe. You can then begin to slowly downsize by making small changes to lesser sizes until you reach your desired size by stretching down.
Measuring Takeaway
When it comes to measuring ear gauge sizes, understanding the gauge sizing system is key. It’s important to take your time and choose the right size for your piercing. Consistency is also essential during this process, so you remain at a consistent gauge size throughout the allotted stretching phase before transitioning to a larger gauge size in order to ensure a comfortable journey stretching.