Threaded Labret

A threaded labret is a flat-backed post with a removable decorative top that attaches via a screw thread. The flat disc sits flush against the skin on the inside of the piercing, making it comfortable for both ear cartilage and lip placements. The decorative top is interchangeable — once you have the post, you can swap tops without replacing the full piece.

Internal threading means the thread is inside the post — the shaft that passes through the piercing is smooth, and the decorative top has a small pin that screws into a receiver inside the bar. External threading means the screw thread is on the outside of the post itself. For healing piercings, internal threading is strongly recommended because a smooth shaft causes significantly less trauma to healing tissue during insertion. External threading is more common in fashion jewellery and is generally fine for fully healed piercings.

Threaded labret studs are used across a wide range of placements: tragus, helix, flat, forward helix, other cartilage piercings, labret, lip, Monroe, medusa, and cheek piercings. The flat back makes them particularly suitable for cartilage placements where a ball or curved back would create pressure against the ear's anatomy during sleep or contact.

The most common gauges are 16G (1.2mm) and 14G (1.6mm). 16G is standard for most cartilage piercings including tragus and helix, as well as Monroe and finer lip placements. 14G is typical for standard labret, medusa, and cheek piercings. If you are unsure, check with the piercer who performed your piercing — they will have used a specific gauge needle and your jewellery must match.

Post length depends on your anatomy and whether the piercing is healing or healed. New piercings need a longer post — typically 10mm to 12mm — to accommodate swelling in the first weeks. Once swelling has reduced, a piercer will downsize to a shorter post, usually 6mm to 8mm for cartilage placements, to reduce snagging and movement. For healed piercings, a snug fit is preferable. If in doubt, have a piercer check the fit before ordering.

For healing piercings and anyone with metal sensitivity, implant-grade titanium (ASTM F136) is the preferred choice. It is nickel-free by alloy composition — not a coating — and lighter than steel, which matters for ear cartilage placements where jewellery weight affects migration risk. 316L surgical steel is a reliable option for healed piercings in people without nickel sensitivity. It contains trace nickel within EU Nickel Directive limits, which is sufficient for most people but can cause reactions in those with more pronounced sensitivity.

In a fully healed piercing, yes — threaded tops unscrew and reattach by hand. Threading is typically left-hand thread on internally threaded pieces, meaning you tighten by turning anti-clockwise (righty-loosey, lefty-tighty — reversed from a standard bolt). In a healing piercing, any jewellery change should involve a professional piercer. Changing jewellery prematurely in an unhealed channel significantly increases the risk of irritation, trauma, and prolonged healing.

Implant-grade titanium and 14k gold threaded labret studs are designed to be suitable for individuals with metal sensitivities, as they are nickel-free by composition. Surgical steel options fall within EU Nickel Directive thresholds and are appropriate for most people, but those with a confirmed nickel allergy should choose titanium or gold. If you have experienced reactions to body jewellery previously, consult a professional piercer or medical provider before selecting a material.