Nose Ring Sizing: Length, Gauge & Style
October 12, 2018 by Alley
When choosing a nose stud, there are 4 different aspects to consider which seems like a lot for a such a tiny little thing!
These options are: the metal finish + gem option, post length, post gauge size or thickness, your gem size and the backing style!
Metal finish and gem selections are of course just based on your own preference. You might love the sparkle of a diamond or the beautiful colors and swirls of an opal. There is no wrong answer!
Your post length is something that is going to vary for every person. Every nose is beautiful and different. You want the post to be long enough to allow from normal expansion and contraction of your skin, but not so long that it’s sticking out like a little bug antenna. The further your post sticks out the more likely you are to get it caught on things!
The next thing is the gauge of your nose ring.
Your piercer should tell you not only what you are pierced with, but what they recommend you wear after healing. Nose piercings can range from 16 gauge (most likely when wearing hoops) all the way down to a 22 gauge (largest to smallest) Most* people are pierced at an 18 gauge and size down to 20 gauge to keep the piercing small to help with healing if you ever remove it! Gauge size can also be an aesthetic choice - some people even stretch their nostril piercings!
The other factor that is going to change the look + feel of your nose jewelry is the size of your gem! Again, everyone’s nose is different so there is no set measurement that works for everyone. Some people just like having a touch of sparkle and might wear something that has a 1.2 mm gem while others may want their nostril piercing or piercing(s) to be a statement piece and might choose a 2mm or larger adornment. Every piercer I’ve ever gone to has been very helpful in this department- dont be afraid to tell them the look you are going for and have them help direct you!
The last selection you have to make on your nose stud is your backing option. There are 4 basic options you can choose from- nose bone, fishtail, corkscrew, and L.
Nose bones have a small ball on the end and are one solid piece that is gently pushed through the nostril (in a hot shower if you can to help your skin naturally expand for maximum comfort!) The size of the ball is small enough so that it is easy to get in, but also tight enough to be secure. If you find that nose screws flip around or are uncomfortable, our nose pins are your best choice. Please note that because that small end ball can damage delicate skin in new piercings and should only be worn in healed piercings.
Fishtail studs come extra long (in a gold finish they remind me of Mrs. Grass’ soup with the special egg in it lol!) They are intended to be taken to your piercer to be custom fit to your nose! These are awesome because they are always going to be a perfect fit!
Corkscrews are designed for a secure fit so they are an awesome option for physically active people as they are unlikely to fall out! They can a little tricky to get in so you can always go to your piercer to have them help you the first time!
Last, but not least is your standard L backing!
L bends are usually used for initial piercings because they are easy to get in. They are also a nice choice for someone who has trouble getting the U shaped screw in, or who likes to change their jewelry often. They are the easiest to take in and out on the go if you are the kind of person who likes their nose jewelry to always match their outfit or occasion!
