Can You Safely Go from 16g to 18g Piercing Jewelry?

Learn if you can switch from 16g to 18g piercing jewelry and what to consider for a comfortable and safe transition.

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Yes, you can go from 16g to 18g in terms of piercing jewelry. The gauge size indicates the thickness of the jewelry, with a larger number signifying a thinner piece. Moving from a 16g to an 18g means you're opting for slightly thinner jewelry. It's a small change and should not cause discomfort or require re-stretching of the piercing. However, listen to your body, and if you feel any discomfort, reconsider or consult a professional piercer for advice.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What does gauge size mean in piercing jewelry? Gauge size indicates the thickness of piercing jewelry. A higher gauge number means thinner jewelry, while a lower number means thicker jewelry.
  2. Is it safe to go from a thicker to a thinner piercing gauge? Yes, moving from a thicker gauge like 16g to a thinner gauge like 18g is usually safe and involves minimal discomfort, but always listen to your body and consult a professional if unsure.
  3. Do I need to stretch my piercing to go from 16g to 18g? No stretching is typically required when going from 16g to 18g since the jewelry is getting thinner, not thicker.

Watch More

For more insights on piercing care and sizing, check out our guides on how to stretch piercings safely and tips for choosing the right gauge jewelry to keep your piercings healthy and comfortable.

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