Nose Gauge Sizes: A Complete Guide for 2025

Getting a nose piercing is an exciting way to express your personal style. But before you pick out that sparkling stud or chic hoop, it’s crucial to understand one key detail: the gauge size. The gauge determines the thickness of the jewelry and plays a significant role in the healing process and overall comfort of your piercing. Choosing the wrong size can lead to irritation or complications, so getting it right from the start is essential.

What Exactly is a Nose Gauge?

In the world of body piercings, “gauge” refers to the thickness of the jewelry post or ring that goes through the piercing. It’s a unit of measurement, and somewhat counterintuitively, a higher gauge number means a thinner piece of jewelry. For example, a 20-gauge (20g) stud is thinner than an 18-gauge (18g) stud. This measurement system is standard across the body modification industry and ensures you can find jewelry that fits your piercing perfectly.

Common Nose Piercing Gauge Sizes

While nose jewelry comes in various sizes, a few are considered standard for nostril and septum piercings. Your professional piercer will select the initial gauge based on your anatomy and the type of piercing, but knowing the common sizes helps when you're ready to shop for new jewelry.

The Standard 20 Gauge (20g)

The most common size for a nostril piercing is 20g (0.81mm). It's delicate enough for a subtle look but sturdy enough to support a healthy healing process. Most of the nose studs and L-shaped pins you'll find in stores are made in this size. It’s a great starting point and offers the widest variety of jewelry styles.

The Slightly Thicker 18 Gauge (18g)

An 18g (1.02mm) piercing is slightly thicker than the standard 20g. Some piercers prefer this size because it can create a more stable piercing channel that is less prone to irritation or accidentally closing up. It's also a common size for nose hoops and rings, as the slightly thicker post provides more durability. If you were pierced at 18g, you can often wear 20g jewelry, but you shouldn't force 18g jewelry into a 20g piercing.

The Bolder 16 Gauge (16g)

A 16g (1.29mm) is a much thicker option and is most commonly used for septum piercings. It can also be used for nostril piercings for those who want a more noticeable look or plan to stretch their piercing later. Jewelry at this gauge is robust and makes a statement, but it’s essential that a professional piercer performs the initial piercing at this size.

How to Choose the Right Gauge

The best way to determine the right gauge is to consult with a reputable, professional piercer. They can assess your anatomy and recommend the ideal size for a safe and successful healing period. For more information on safe piercing practices, you can refer to the guidelines from the Association of Professional Piercers (APP). If you already have a piercing and are unsure of its size, your piercer can measure it for you. Trying to guess can lead to purchasing jewelry that doesn't fit, which can be both frustrating and a waste of money.

Managing the Cost of Your New Look

Beyond the size, the material of your jewelry also matters. High-quality materials like implant-grade titanium or solid 14k gold are recommended, especially for new piercings, but they come at a higher cost. Planning for this expense is part of the process. Once you've decided on the perfect nose gauge and material for your style, you can explore flexible payment options for your new jewelry. This allows you to prioritize quality and safety without having to pay the full cost upfront. Services like Gerald offer Buy Now, Pay Later options that make it easier to afford high-quality pieces from your favorite stores without interest or hidden fees, so you can focus on enjoying your new look.

Final Thoughts on Your Piercing Journey

Choosing the right gauge is a fundamental step in your nose piercing journey. It affects your comfort, healing, and the types of jewelry you can wear. Always prioritize professional advice and high-quality materials, like those recommended by jewelry experts at GIA. By understanding the basics of gauge sizes and planning for the expense, you can ensure your piercing experience is a positive one from start to finish.