A Sizing Guide to Stretching your Ears

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So you want to see what those plugs are going to look like in your ears? We've compiled a photo so you can get a better idea of how big you want to go. We are also going to give you some advice based on what your stretching goals are. There is a lot of advice out there and by all means, what we state is not the golden rule. Do your research before you begin the process.

Firstly, don't rush the stretching process. Those that are patient and allow time to heal will find that the stretching process is not painful and that the earlobe retains more elasticity and the likelyhood of damaging your earlobe lessens. A stretch a month is considered by many to be the right pace. Next, ensure you are using a proper stretching taper to complete the process. Don't force your tissues to stretch beyond their limits. Many consider somewhere between 2g and 0g the point of no return. Most people who stay within this limit and decide to wear standard earrings, will do so without problems. However every person is different and stretching is considered a body modification. Don't stretch larger than you are willing to live with when you are older. Minor plastic surgery is an option for those that extreme stretch and then want their "old" ears back.

When stretching, one thing to consider is limits on the types of jewelry that can easily be purchased and worn. Tunnels typically start around 2g and can go up in size for the largest of stretches. Plugs start at 12g, but do not hit a realistic size for many people until a minimum of 6g or 4g. Double flared plugs are 0.5mm - 1.5mm on the flares larger than the wearing area. So if you are a 4g, the wearable area is 5mm, but the flares may easily be 6mm. Hanging styles can nicely be worn in smaller stretches. For bone and horn, there are limits to the sizes in which gauges can be made in hanging styles. Typically for bone, that limit is 0g. The limit for horn may be up to 1/2". Larger hanging styles can be accomodated in wood. Organics are beautiful, but they are not as durable as stainless steel and other metals and require special care and cleaning.