Nose Piercing Gauge Sizes
- 18g vs 20g Rings
- Stretching and Sizing
- Stud and Hoop Measurements
Nose piercings come in 18g or 20g sizes. 20g rings have a thinner, delicate look while 18g rings are thicker and durable.
Yes, a 20 gauge nose ring is bigger than a 22 gauge one. Gauges get larger as the numbers decrease.
You can stretch a 16g piercing to 14g. Ensure the 14g jewelry suits a fresh stretch.
A bigger gauge won’t fit a smaller piercing. Nose ring gauges apply to all nose ring types.
Stud and Hoop Measurements
Initial studs need longer posts for swelling room. Standard stud lengths are 1/4” to 5/16”. Hoops are measured by internal diameter, often 8-10mm.
18g nose rings are 1mm thick. Good balance of style and comfort. 20g is 0.8mm thick. Most popular nostril jewelry size.
You can stretch from 20g to 18g by applying vitamin E oil and gently inserting the 18g stud.
Nose stud lengths accommodate swelling after new piercings. Hoop diameters match piercing placement.
20g is used for ear and nose piercings. 18g or 20g are common nostril gauges.