What Size Hoops Pierce Ears? A Comprehensive Guide to Ear Piercing Gauge and Hoop Sizes
Choosing the right size hoop for your ear piercing can feel overwhelming. There's a whole world of gauges, diameters, and styles to navigate! This guide will demystify the process, helping you select the perfect hoop for your ears and piercing type.
Understanding Ear Piercing Gauge:
Before we delve into hoop sizes, it's crucial to understand the concept of gauge. Gauge refers to the thickness of the piercing wire, and it's expressed as a number. The smaller the number, the thicker the wire. Common gauges for ear piercings include:
- 20 Gauge: This is a very common gauge for initial ear piercings, especially lobes. It's thin and relatively comfortable.
- 18 Gauge: Slightly thicker than 20 gauge, also suitable for lobes and often used for second and subsequent piercings.
- 16 Gauge: A thicker gauge, often used for cartilage piercings (like helix or tragus) due to the added strength needed.
Hoop Size: Diameter and Gauge
Hoop size isn't solely about the diameter (the measurement across the hoop); the gauge plays a significant role in determining the overall look and feel. A thicker gauge (smaller number) will result in a more substantial-looking hoop, even if the diameter is the same as a thinner gauge hoop.
Common Hoop Diameters:
The diameter of the hoop is measured in millimeters (mm) or inches. Common sizes include:
- 8mm - 10mm: These smaller hoops are often suitable for initial lobe piercings or smaller cartilage piercings.
- 12mm - 15mm: A popular size for lobe piercings, offering a balance between subtlety and visibility.
- 16mm - 20mm: These larger hoops are more noticeable and often used for lobe piercings or larger cartilage piercings. Sizes above 20mm are generally considered very large hoops.
What size hoops are best for initial lobe piercings?
For initial lobe piercings, a 20 gauge hoop with a diameter between 8mm and 10mm is generally recommended. The smaller size minimizes irritation and allows for easier healing. It's essential to choose a hoop made of a hypoallergenic material like surgical steel or titanium.
What size hoops are best for cartilage piercings?
Cartilage piercings typically require a thicker gauge (16 gauge or even 14 gauge) to provide enough strength and support. The diameter will vary depending on the specific piercing location and personal preference. A piercer can advise on appropriate sizes based on the individual anatomy and the healing process.
Can I wear different size hoops in different piercings?
Absolutely! The size of your hoop should be appropriate for the specific piercing and its location. You might wear smaller hoops in your lobe piercings and larger ones in your cartilage piercings. It all depends on your personal preference and the anatomy of your ear.
What materials are best for hoop earrings?
The best materials for hoop earrings, especially for new piercings, are hypoallergenic materials:
- Surgical Steel: A very common and affordable choice.
- Titanium: Highly biocompatible and resistant to corrosion.
- 14k or 18k Gold: A more luxurious option, but ensure it is high-quality gold to minimize the risk of irritation.
- Niobium: Another excellent hypoallergenic metal.
Choosing the Right Hoop:
Ultimately, the best size hoop for your ear piercing depends on several factors:
- Piercing location: Lobe piercings usually accommodate a wider range of sizes than cartilage piercings.
- Gauge of your piercing: Your existing piercing's gauge determines which hoop thickness you can safely wear.
- Personal preference: Consider your style and how noticeable you want your hoops to be.
Always consult a professional piercer. They can assess your ear anatomy, the gauge of your piercing, and guide you toward the appropriate hoop size to ensure safe and comfortable wearing. Ignoring this advice can lead to complications.
