Introduction:
When it comes to body jewelry, size 12 gauges are one of the most popular choices for people who want to stretch their piercings and make a statement. But what exactly is a size 12 gauge, and why are they so commonly used? This article dives into everything you need to know about size 12 gauges, including their sizes, materials, types of jewelry, and tips on how to care for them. Whether you’re a seasoned piercing enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of body modification, this guide will help you understand how size 12 gauges can fit into your jewelry collection and personal style.
What Are Size 12 Gauges?
A size 12 gauge refers to a specific thickness of body jewelry, commonly used for piercings that have been stretched to a particular size. In terms of measurements, a 12 gauge is 2.0 millimeters in diameter. This size is larger than the initial standard ear piercing size (usually 18 or 20 gauge), but it is still relatively small compared to larger gauges that go up to 00 or even larger.
For those who are new to ear stretching, the 12 gauge is often one of the first sizes used after initial piercings are fully healed. Many individuals find it to be a comfortable and achievable size to work up to in their stretching journey.
Size 12 Gauges vs. Other Gauge Sizes
When considering which size gauge to choose, it’s important to understand how the different sizes compare. Here’s a simple breakdown:
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16 gauge (1.2 mm): Typically used for standard piercings like earlobes or nostrils.
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14 gauge (1.6 mm): Commonly used for cartilage piercings or stretched lobes.
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12 gauge (2.0 mm): A popular size for the beginning stages of ear stretching, offering a good balance between visible size and comfort.
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10 gauge (2.5 mm): A larger size often used for people progressing in their stretching journey.
As you can see, size 12 gauges provide a noticeable difference from smaller sizes, but they’re still comfortable enough for many people to wear on a daily basis.
Types of Jewelry for Size 12 Gauges
When it comes to choosing jewelry for size 12 gauges, you have a wide variety of options, each serving different purposes and aesthetics. Some of the most common types of jewelry include:
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Tunnels: These are hollowed-out pieces of jewelry that fit snugly in the piercing, creating a “hole” effect. They’re popular for people who love the look of a large, visible hole in their ear.
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Plugs: Plugs are solid pieces of jewelry that fit into the stretched piercing. They come in a variety of materials, including wood, acrylic, metal, and glass.
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Hinged Rings: Some people prefer rings over tunnels or plugs, and hinged rings for size 12 gauges provide a sleek, modern look.
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Barbells: Though typically associated with cartilage piercings, barbells can also be used for stretched lobes, giving a unique look that stands out.
Materials Used for Size 12 Gauge Jewelry
Choosing the right material for your size 12 gauge jewelry is essential for comfort, safety, and durability. Common materials include:
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Surgical Steel: Known for its durability and hypoallergenic properties, surgical steel is a popular option for body jewelry, especially for initial piercings or when you need reliable, everyday jewelry.
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Titanium: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, titanium is another hypoallergenic material that’s great for sensitive skin.
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Acrylic: Lightweight and available in many colors and designs, acrylic is an affordable material that is commonly used for plugs and tunnels.
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Wood: Some body jewelry enthusiasts prefer the natural look and feel of wooden jewelry, especially for larger gauges like 12 gauge and beyond.
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Glass: Glass jewelry can be beautifully designed and offers a smooth, polished finish.
How to Stretch to a Size 12 Gauge
If you’re thinking about stretching your ears to a 12 gauge, it’s important to follow a safe and gradual process. Rushing through the stretching process can cause pain, scarring, or even permanent damage. Here are some steps to follow:
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Start with a Clean Piercing: Make sure your earlobes are fully healed before you start stretching. Stretching a fresh piercing can result in injury or infection.
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Use the Right Tools: Invest in high-quality tapers and jewelry made for stretching. A taper is a long, tapered tool that helps you gradually increase the size of your piercing. Never force jewelry into your piercing, as this can cause tears or stretching that is too aggressive.
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Stretch Slowly: Stretching should be done over a period of weeks or months. Typically, you should wait at least 4-6 weeks between each size increase to allow your skin to heal.
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Lubricate and Massage: Use a saline solution or natural oils to lubricate the piercing and ensure the jewelry slides in smoothly. Massage the piercing gently to prevent scar tissue buildup.
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Monitor for Infection: Always watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pain. If you notice any unusual symptoms, consult a professional piercer or doctor immediately.
Caring for Size 12 Gauge Piercings
Proper aftercare is key to ensuring your size 12 gauge piercing remains healthy. Here are some tips to keep your piercing in good condition:
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Clean Regularly: Use a saline solution or non-alcoholic piercing cleaner to gently clean your piercing. Avoid harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin.
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Avoid Touching: As tempting as it may be, try not to touch your piercing with dirty hands. Bacteria can introduce infections.
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Keep Jewelry Clean: Regularly clean your jewelry, especially if it’s made from materials that can gather bacteria, like acrylic or wood.
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Be Mindful of Pressure: Avoid putting undue pressure on your piercing while sleeping or during physical activities.
Benefits of Size 12 Gauges in Body Jewelry
Size 12 gauges offer several benefits for those looking to make a statement with their body jewelry:
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Moderate Size: It’s not too big, making it perfect for those who want a noticeable but comfortable piercing.
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Customization Options: With a wide range of jewelry styles, from plugs to tunnels to rings, size 12 gauges allow for plenty of customization.
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Comfortable for Beginners: Many people find that size 12 gauges are an ideal size for ear stretching because they offer a balance between visual impact and comfort.
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Durable Materials: Size 12 gauge jewelry is often made from high-quality materials that last, such as surgical steel or titanium.
Conclusion
Size 12 gauges offer a great balance between visibility and comfort for those who are either new to ear stretching or want to add a bit more flair to their body jewelry collection. Whether you’re just starting your journey or you’re looking to change up your look, understanding the basics of size 12 gauges will help you make informed decisions. Remember to always prioritize safety and aftercare to keep your piercings healthy and looking their best.
FAQ Section
1. What is a size 12 gauge in body jewelry?
A size 12 gauge is 2.0 mm in diameter, making it one of the common sizes used for ear stretching and body jewelry.
2. How do I safely stretch my ears to a 12 gauge?
Stretch your ears gradually using high-quality tapers, lubricate your piercing, and allow adequate time for healing between size increases.
3. What materials are best for size 12 gauge jewelry?
Materials such as surgical steel, titanium, acrylic, and glass are great options for size 12 gauge jewelry, depending on your preference for comfort and style.
4. Can I wear size 12 gauges in my cartilage piercings?
While size 12 gauges are most commonly used for ear lobes, they can be worn in cartilage piercings as long as the piercing is large enough to accommodate the size.
5. How long should I wait to stretch to a 12 gauge?
You should wait at least 4-6 weeks before moving to the next size after healing from your initial piercing.
6. Are size 12 gauges painful to wear?
Most people find size 12 gauges to be comfortable, though the stretching process can cause mild discomfort, which should subside once healed.
