What gauge to pierce nose?
Use a thin gauge, between 20G (. 81mm) and 18G (1.0mm), and make sure that the hole is not smaller in diameter than your jewelry. Take the needle out of the packaging, when you are ready, and be sure to sterilize it before you put it into your skin.
Nose piercing is usually done with an 18 gauge (1.02mm) post. After a nose piercing heals, most people switch to a 20 gauge (. 81mm) post because it is thinner and leaves a smaller hole. A post thinner than 20 gauge is not recommended for most nose piercings.
I highly recommend avoiding any jewelry that is thinner than 22 gauge (like 24 gauge nose hoops) as they will pull out of your piercing easily and be incredibly quick to deform.
The standard size for a nose piercing is 18G or 20G, however, your piercer will pierce with a larger needle (up to 16G) to allow for better healing. Never use a nose ring smaller than recommended by your piercer, as there is more risk of rejection, tearing, and migration.
20 Gauge is thinner than 18G and is the standard most popular size. If you are unsure this would be your best choice. 22 Gauge is the thinnest size post and perfect for those who normally wear silver nose jewelry, from jewelry stores such as Claires (the majority of their silver nose jewelry comes in thinner gauges).
The word gauge with a number by it refers to the thickness of the metal used in constructing the casket. The smaller the number the thicker the steel. 18 Gauge would be a stronger metal than a 20 Gauge.
The most common gauge used in nose piercings is 18, but some people prefer to scale down to a 20 gauge once their piercing has healed completely.
22 Gauge (.6mm thickness)
This is the smallest gauge used on nose piercings and would be considered unusual in the United States.
Continuous Hoops Collection: 20 gauge vs.
20 gauge is thicker wire than 22 gauge. Thick enough to be bold, but still easy to slip through your piercing.
Labret studs are an ideal style of nostril piercing jewelry because they stay in place so well. You get the look of a nose bone or nostril screw, but the backing inside the nostril holds a labret stud in place much more securely than these other styles of nostril piercing jewelry.
Are L shaped nose studs good?
Thanks to its shape, once inserted, it firmly sits against your nostril. L-shape nose studs are usually used for new piercings - as they are easier to put in - but are also the best option for those who often change nose jewellery.
There is no right or wrong side of the nose to get a piercing, it is up to you. A good idea is to pick your best 'selfie side' of your face whether that be the left or right side!

You shouldn't feel any pressure on your piercing when you insert it. This is true whether you have a hoop or stud. Many manufacturers purposely bend the nose rings to be a bit loose so they can move around in the nose.
How long until I can change my jewelry? Wait at least six months. Nostril piercings are not very forgiving if you try to change the jewelry too soon. Not waiting long enough could result in irritation, a tear to the piercing channel, scarring, an increased risk of infection, or difficulty reinserting the jewelry.
Use the hash marks on the calipers to determine the gauge.
The number above the hash mark on the movable prong is the gauge of your jewelry. Since calipers don't list the gauge size on the ruler, simply type the measurement into a search engine online to pull up the gauge.
18 Gauge: This size allows you to do most tasks that the 16 gauge can. Some of the common uses include administering blood, pushing fluids rapidly, etc. You can use this for CT PE Protocols or other testing that requires large IV sizes.
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Inches & Millimeters Gauge Conversion Chart:
Gauge | Inches | Millimeters |
---|---|---|
20G | .032" | 0.81mm |
18G | .040" | 1.0mm |
16G | .050" | 1.2mm |
14G | .064" | 1.6mm |
The traditional placement for a nostril piercing is at the crease line on the side of the nose. A big smile accentuates this feature to help pinpoint the spot. This area is often thinner than the rest of the nose, so it may heal faster and feel less tender when pierced.
When it comes to nose piercings, it really doesn't matter whether you have a large nose, a button nose, a crooked nose or a straight nose. Nose piercings are suitable for all facial structures. If you're unsure whether the standard nostril stud or hoop is right for you, don't worry—you have several options.
Studs: A twist nose stud is a good option for a first-time nostril piercing, as it's comfortable, secure, and stays out of the way. These studs have a curved post that fits through the piercing. Hoops: Small nose hoops, such as a captive bead ring, are good for brand new piercings.
Is a 20 gauge nose ring big?
The standard nose ring gauge is 18G or 20G, and your stud jewelry will probably be around 1/4” to 5/16” in length. These are standard sizes, and they might vary depending on your anatomy.
When choosing your items specifics from the drop down list, please note the following: 18G = 18 Gauge 20G= 20 Gauge 22G= 22 Gauge 14K= 14 Karat Solid Gold 18K= 18 Karat Solid Gold 24K= 24 Karat Solid Gold 1.5mm Gem= Gemstone measures approx 1.5 millimeters in size 2mm Gem= Gemstone measures approx 2 millimeters in size ...
A 20 gauge vinyl swimming pool liner is thinner than a 25 gauge liner.
L-shaped nose studs are easy to insert but that also means that they can come out of your nose pretty easily. Be aware of this and take care that it doesn't fall out or your piercing might close up.
Nose studs are one of the types of nose rings that stays in the best for most nostril piercings. Nosebones are short, straight barbells that have a larger decorative end and a smaller end that rests on the inside. The end is small enough to push through the piercing but will still anchor the jewelry in.