What Gauge Is a Nose Piercing
Nose piercings are one of the most popular and versatile types of piercings. But if you're new to it, you might be wondering: What gauge is a nose piercing, really? Let's keep it simple and clear.
The Standard Nose Piercing Gauge
Most professional piercers use a 20 gauge (0.8mm) or 18 gauge (1.0mm) needle for nostril piercings. This is the standard for most nose studs and hoops you'll find at reputable shops.
20G (0.8mm): The most common size, especially for dainty studs or nose screws.
18G (1.0mm): Slightly thicker and often used if you want a more durable or noticeable look.
According to the Association of Professional Piercers (APP), both 18G and 20G are acceptable for nostril piercings, depending on anatomy and jewelry choice.
Can You Go Thicker or Thinner?
Thinner (22G): Sometimes used for very delicate studs, but not recommended for initial piercings because they're more prone to migration and tearing.
Thicker (16G): Used for a bold look or people switching to larger jewelry (like segment rings), but this requires stretching or piercing at a larger gauge from the start. You can refer to our previous blog on piercing and stretching.
Septum Piercings Are Different
If you're talking about a septum piercing, the standard gauge is usually 16G (1.2mm) or 14G (1.6mm) — thicker than a nostril piercing. Septum jewelry needs more strength and often features circular barbells or clickers.
How to Know Your Gauge
- Not sure what gauge your nose piercing is? Here's what you can do:
- Ask your piercer – they'll know what they used.
- Check your jewelry – good jewelry is often labeled with the size.
- Use a gauge wheel or digital caliper – available at many jewelry stores or online.
Final Tip
When buying nose jewelry, always match the gauge to your piercing size. Using the wrong size can cause irritation or even tearing. And when in doubt, ask a professional piercer for advice.