Last Updated on December 29, 2023
The term “gauge” refers to a piece of jewelry’s overall thickness, or how broad the shaft of a piece is other than how long it is. The gauge size specifies the size of the piercing hole required to accept the jewelry.
Gauge sizes, on the other hand, are represented by a number preceded by “g” or the name “gauge.” Gauge sizes function backwards, so the greater the number, the narrower the width. As a result, larger numbers are thinner than lower numbers.
The question is, “what gauge are nipple rings?”
Read on to get answers to the following questions:
- What gauge are nipple rings?
- Why is knowing my nipple gauge important?
- What nipple ring material should I use?
- What are the common nipple ring styles?
Contents
What Gauge Are Nipple Rings?
Unless you specify otherwise, most piercers like to use a common size for starting jewelry. The most common nipple ring gauge is 14G. Depending on your nipple size, you may use 16 gauge or even 12 gauge.
You can get a gauge wheel tool online if you can’t make it to your nearest piercing shop to ascertain the correct gauge size for your nipple piercing. A gauge wheel is a flat disc with slots corresponding to gauge sizes carved onto it. Simply put your ring into the notches till it fits exactly. The size would be displayed beside the notch on the wheel.
Keep in mind that with nipple jewelry, larger gauges are usually your best option. A very narrow gauge, such as 18 or even 16, has a higher chance of migration, which can result in a lot of discomfort and rejection. A bigger gauge, such as 14 or 12, will be more stable, provided it’s pierced properly.
Why Is Knowing My Nipple Gauge Important?
Knowing the ideal gauge size for your nipple piercing is very important. You risk causing real damage to your piercing if you choose the wrong size. Wearing jewelry with a gauge that is too thin might cause your piercing to shrink and potentially rip or cut the piercing. Too thick jewelry may not even go in easily, and if forced, may result in ripping, blood, and, of course, discomfort.
The most common gauge size for a nipple ring is 14G. It’s also the most common size for the initial piercing ring during healing. If you select the incorrect gauge, you risk reducing your piercing channel and making future purchases more difficult.
What Nipple Ring Material Should I Use?
If you have a metal allergy or skin sensitivity, the material used to make your new nipple ring is quite significant.
Nickel is the metal that most people are allergic to, but it’s certainly not included in any of our jewelry metal alternatives. Titanium and surgical stainless steel are the two most common materials used to make nipple rings.
This is because they are inert metals, which means they are far less likely to cause an allergic reaction. They are also free of lead and nickel, two of the most common allergens. They are, in a nutshell, hypoallergenic.
Also, make sure both metals are implant grade, since this ensures their safety, particularly on sensitive skin.
You may also use polytetrafluoroethylene as a material for nipple rings. They are as excellent as they are because they are both flexible and hypoallergenic. If you have the option, select titanium over the other two materials. It is more effective on all skin types. Compared to surgical stainless steel, it is lighter and smoother to the touch.
What Are The Most Common Nipple Ring Designs?
Here are a few examples of nipple ring designs you can go for:
- The Nipple Bar
A nipple bar is a straight piece that passes through the piercing and is topped with a gem or ball on either end. It is similar to a conventional barbell, but it is usually tipped with crystals or embellishments facing outward, so it can be seen in front.
- Nipple Ring (Standard)
What we commonly refer to as a “nipple ring” is actually a nipple bar with a dangle or dangling adornment. This will be sized similarly to a nipple bar. Unless the dangle’s connected ends are exceedingly thick, the major focus here will be barbell length.
- The Horseshoe Ring
This is simply a horseshoe-shaped curved barbell with a ball at either end to keep it in place. Horseshoe rings are a little difficult to size since the width of the ring is the major focus for optimal fit.
