Size Guide for Different Piercings
As an expert in selling piercings, it's essential to know the standard sizes of different piercings to best advise your clients. This guide will help you understand common dimensions in terms of thickness (gauge), length, and diameter for each type of ear, eyebrow, navel, and mouth piercing.
Understanding Piercing Measurements
- Thickness (Gauge): Measured in gauges (G), it indicates the diameter of the jewelry. The smaller the number, the thicker the jewelry.
- Length: The distance between the two ends of a straight or curved piece of jewelry, measured in millimeters (mm).
- Diameter: The distance across the inside of a ring, measured in millimeters (mm).
Standard Sizes for Each Type of Piercing
Ear Piercings
| Type of Piercing | Thickness (Gauge) | Length (mm) | Ring Diameter (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earlobe | 20G (0.8 mm) or 18G (1.0 mm) | 6 - 8 | 8 - 10 |
| Upper Lobe | 18G (1.0 mm) or 16G (1.2 mm) | 6 - 8 | 8 - 10 |
| Helix (Upper Cartilage) | 16G (1.2 mm) | 6 - 8 | 8 - 10 |
| Tragus | 16G (1.2 mm) | 6 | 6 - 8 |
| Anti-Tragus | 16G (1.2 mm) | 6 - 8 | 8 |
| Conch (Inner and Outer) | 16G (1.2 mm) | 6 - 10 | 10 - 14 |
| Daith | 16G (1.2 mm) | N/A | 8 - 10 |
| Rook | 16G (1.2 mm) | 6 - 8 | N/A |
| Snug | 16G (1.2 mm) | 6 - 8 | N/A |
| Industrial (Scaffold) | 14G (1.6 mm) or 16G (1.2 mm) | 30 - 38 |
N/A |
Eyebrow Piercings
| Type of Piercing | Thickness (Gauge) | Length (mm) | Type of Jewelry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eyebrow | 16G (1.2 mm) | 8 - 10 | Curved barbell, ring |
Navel Piercings
| Type of Piercing | Thickness (Gauge) | Length (mm) | Type of Jewelry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navel | 14G (1.6 mm) | 10 (standard), 8 - 12 possible | Curved barbell with decorations |
Mouth Piercings
| Type of Piercing | Thickness (Gauge) | Length (mm) | Type of Jewelry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tongue | 14G (1.6 mm) | 16 (initial), 12 - 14 after healing | Straight barbell |
| Labret | 16G (1.2 mm) or 14G (1.6 mm) | 8 - 10 | Labret stud, barbell |
| Monroe (left) | 16G (1.2 mm) | 8 - 10 | Labret stud |
| Madonna (right) | 16G (1.2 mm) | 8 - 10 | Labret stud |
| Medusa (philtrum) | 16G (1.2 mm) | 8 - 10 | Labret stud |
| Ashley | 16G (1.2 mm) | 10 | Labret stud |
| Vertical Labret | 16G (1.2 mm) | 10 - 12 | Curved barbell |
| Snake Bites | 16G (1.2 mm) | 8 - 10 | Labret studs, rings |
| Angel Bites | 16G (1.2 mm) | 8 - 10 | Labret studs |
Nose Piercings
| Type of Piercing | Thickness (Gauge) | Length (mm) | Diameter (mm) | Type of Jewelry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nostril | 20G (0.8 mm) or 18G (1.0 mm) | 6 - 7 (for studs) | 8 - 10 (for rings) | Studs, rings |
| Septum | 16G (1.2 mm) or 14G (1.6 mm) | N/A | 8 - 10 | Rings, horseshoes |
| Bridge (Erl) | 16G (1.2 mm) | 6 - 10 | N/A | Straight barbell |
| High Nostril | 20G (0.8 mm) or 18G (1.0 mm) | 6 - 7 | N/A | Studs |
Stretchers and Stretchings
Stretchers are used to gradually stretch the earlobe or other parts of the body to wear larger jewelry. Here is a guide to common stretching sizes.
| Size (Gauge) | Diameter (mm) |
|---|---|
| 20G | 0.8 mm |
| 18G | 1.0 mm |
| 16G | 1.2 mm |
| 14G | 1.6 mm |
| 12G | 2.0 mm |
| 10G | 2.4 mm |
| 8G | 3.2 mm |
| 6G | 4.0 mm |
| 4G | 5.0 mm |
| 2G | 6.0 mm |
| 0G | 8.0 mm |
| 00G | 10.0 mm |
| 12 mm | 12.0 mm |
| 14 mm | 14.0 mm |
| 16 mm | 16.0 mm |
It is important to stretch gradually to avoid tears and promote healthy healing.
Tips for Choosing the Size
- Consider Anatomy : Everyone is unique. It's important to measure the piercing area for a perfect fit.
- Anticipate Swelling : For new piercings, choose a slightly longer length to accommodate initial swelling.
- Proceed Slowly with Stretchers : Increase the size gradually, allowing sufficient time between each size.
- Quality Materials : Recommend hypoallergenic materials like titanium, surgical steel, or borosilicate glass for stretchers.
Recommended Materials
- Implant-Grade Titanium : Lightweight and hypoallergenic.
- Surgical Steel 316L : Durable and economical.
- 14k or 18k Gold : Luxurious and suitable for sensitive skin (ensure it's nickel-free).
- Bioplast or PTFE : Flexible and ideal for oral piercings or during pregnancy (for navel).
- Borosilicate Glass : Smooth and safe for stretchings.
- Medical Silicone : Used for stretchers, but only on fully healed piercings.
Care and Post-Procedure Advice
- Regular Cleaning : Advise your clients to clean their piercing with a sterile saline solution.
- Avoid Unnecessary Handling : Minimize touching to prevent infections.
- Specific Care for Nose : Avoid cosmetics on the area and be careful when blowing your nose.
- Responsible Stretching : Never skip sizes and wait at least 4 to 6 weeks between each step.
- Professional Follow-Up : Encourage a check-up visit with the piercer to ensure proper healing.
Conclusion
A thorough understanding of jewelry sizes and types is essential to provide quality service. By guiding your clients to the most suitable choice, you contribute to their satisfaction and your business's reputation.
Note: The information provided is general standards. It's always recommended to consult a professional piercer for personalized advice.
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