One of the most confusing aspects of buying nose jewellery is understanding the sizing system. Unlike clothing where sizes are relatively straightforward, piercing jewellery uses gauge measurements, millimetres, and various length specifications that can feel overwhelming for newcomers. This guide demystifies nose piercing sizes so you can confidently choose jewellery that fits perfectly.
The Gauge System Explained
Gauge (abbreviated as G) refers to the thickness of the jewellery post or wire that passes through your piercing. Here's where it gets counterintuitive: the higher the gauge number, the thinner the jewellery. This system originated from the wire industry, where higher gauge numbers indicated thinner wire.
For nose piercings, the most common gauges are:
- 22G (0.6mm): Very thin, often used for delicate studs. Common in India and for decorative pieces.
- 20G (0.8mm): The standard for most nostril piercings in Australia. Offers a good balance between durability and subtlety.
- 18G (1.0mm): Slightly thicker, preferred by some piercers for initial piercings as the extra thickness can be more stable.
- 16G (1.2mm): Standard for septum piercings. Too thick for most nostril piercings.
- 14G (1.6mm): Occasionally used for septum piercings, particularly for larger, statement jewellery.
Always check your piercing's gauge before purchasing new jewellery. Inserting jewellery that's too thick can damage your piercing, while jewellery that's too thin may migrate or fall out.
Finding Your Current Gauge
If you're unsure what gauge your piercing is, here are several ways to find out:
- Ask your piercer: They should have recorded your initial jewellery specifications.
- Check your jewellery packaging: If you still have the original packaging, the gauge should be listed.
- Use a gauge card: These inexpensive cards have holes of various sizes to measure jewellery thickness.
- Measure with calipers: For precision, digital calipers can measure the post diameter in millimetres.
Understanding Post and Stud Lengths
Post length refers to the wearable length of a stud—the portion that passes through your piercing. This measurement is crucial for comfort and healing.
Initial Piercing Length
When you first get pierced, your piercer uses a longer post to accommodate swelling. Typical initial lengths are:
- Nostril studs: 8-10mm for initial jewellery
- L-shaped studs: 7-9mm post length
- Nose screws: 6-8mm wearable area
Healed Piercing Length
Once your piercing has fully healed and swelling has subsided, you can downsize to shorter jewellery:
- Nostril studs: 5-7mm for most people
- L-shaped studs: 6-7mm is typically comfortable
- Nose screws: 5-6mm works for most nostril thicknesses
Key Takeaway
Downsizing your jewellery after healing is essential. Wearing initial (longer) jewellery indefinitely can cause irritation, snagging, and even migration of your piercing.
Hoop and Ring Diameters
For seamless rings, hoops, and clickers, diameter becomes the key measurement. This measures the inner distance across the circular jewellery.
Nostril Hoops
Nostril hoop sizing depends on where your piercing sits on your nose:
- 5-6mm: Very snug fit, suitable for low nostril piercings close to the crease.
- 7mm: The most popular size for a comfortable, close-fitting hoop.
- 8mm: Offers a slightly looser fit with more visible jewellery.
- 9-10mm: Creates a more dramatic look with the hoop sitting further from the nose.
If you're between sizes, it's generally better to go slightly larger. A hoop that's too small will put pressure on your piercing and can cause irritation bumps.
Septum Rings
Septum jewellery typically comes in larger diameters:
- 6-7mm: Very snug, best for hiding the piercing inside the nose.
- 8mm: Common for subtle, close-fitting septum jewellery.
- 9-10mm: Standard size for visible septum rings that rest just below the nose.
- 11-12mm: Creates a more dramatic, hanging effect.
Measuring Your Nose for the Perfect Fit
To find your ideal hoop diameter at home:
- Take a piece of paper and cut it into a thin strip.
- Hold one end of the paper at your piercing hole.
- Curve the paper around to where you want the inside of the hoop to sit.
- Mark this point and measure the distance in millimetres—this is approximately your diameter.
Alternatively, if you have a hoop that fits well, measure its inner diameter with a ruler and use that as your reference for future purchases.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
Wearing Initial Jewellery Too Long
Many people make the mistake of never downsizing their initial jewellery. While longer posts are necessary for healing, continuing to wear them once healed leads to the jewellery catching on things, moving excessively, and potentially causing irritation bumps.
Choosing Style Over Fit
It's tempting to buy the prettiest piece without considering whether it will actually fit. A gorgeous hoop that's too small will cause constant pressure, while a stud that's too long will stick out awkwardly and snag on everything. Always prioritise fit, then find a style you love within that size range.
Ignoring Gauge When Stretching
If you want to wear thicker jewellery than your current gauge, you'll need to gradually stretch your piercing. Jumping from a 20G to a 16G can damage the piercing. Work with a professional piercer if you want to increase your gauge.
Size Conversion Chart
Here's a quick reference for converting between gauge and millimetres:
- 22G = 0.6mm
- 20G = 0.8mm
- 18G = 1.0mm
- 16G = 1.2mm
- 14G = 1.6mm
- 12G = 2.0mm
When in Doubt, Ask a Professional
If you're struggling to determine your size, visit your local piercing studio. Most piercers are happy to measure your piercing and recommend appropriate sizes, even if you don't buy jewellery from them. This small investment of time can save you from purchasing ill-fitting pieces online.
Understanding nose piercing sizes becomes second nature once you've purchased a few pieces. Keep a note of what sizes work for you, and you'll be able to shop for jewellery confidently, knowing exactly what fits your unique anatomy.