Gauges for Ears - Choices in Piercing

Ear piercing is a very common practice. Depending on what kind of look you are going for or what kind of ear jewelry you want to wear, you need to learn about the different gauges for ears. Ears can be pierced in different gauges, meaning that the holes can be made as large or as small as you like. Some people aren't aware that there is a choice; they think ears are all pierced alike. If you take a good look around, however, you realize that some people couldn't possible be wearing the ear jewelry that they are wearing unless their ear holes are larger than usual. If you are considering getting your ears pierced and the person dong the piercing doesn't bring up gauges for ears, you might want to bring it up yourself so that you can discuss it.


Gauges for ears go up or down in increments of two. The gauge amount for most average ear piercings is 18. This is the standard hole required to wear most of the earrings on the market, and works perfectly fine for most people. Some people, however, like to get bigger holes in their ears so they can wear things such as barbells and thick hoops. These people go to a 16, 14, 12, or 10 gauge piercing. Though at first it may seem like gauge sizes should go up as the holes get bigger, the opposite is actually true. The lower the gauge, the bigger the hole.


Most of the time you will see lower gauges for ears in piercings that are not in the lobe. Upper ear piercings�usually in the cartilage--tend to be of a lower gauge. Cartilage piercings will often close up easier than lobe piercings, even if the original earring is kept in for months. Making the hole larger in the cartilage can often help you avoid this problem. You don't want the hole to be huge�cartilage can be fragile�but if you are going to be pierced in that sensitive area, you will want it done right the first time.


If you have decided definitely to get an ear piercing, find a good, reputable professional piercer before you even start considering gauges for ears. Though there are self-piercing earrings that come in different gauges, it is usually a good idea to stay away from those. The piercing is a slow process and can be very painful. There is also much more chance of infection. Once you have chosen your piercing professional, you can discuss with them the type of jewelry you want to wear and where you want your ear pierced. They will be able to help you choose the gauge that is right for you.

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