| Gauge Size |
Measurement (mm) |
Measurement (inches) |
Best For |
| 18G |
1.0mm |
0.039" |
Standard nostril piercings; most common gauge for initial piercings |
| 20G |
0.8mm |
0.031" |
Delicate nostril piercings or secondary nostril placements |
| 22G |
0.6mm |
0.024" |
Fine, thin piercings; less common for initial nostril piercings |
| 24G |
0.5mm |
0.020" |
Very delicate piercings; typically used for the upper nostril or high placements |
How to Measure Your Gauge: If you're unsure which gauge your piercing is, ask your piercer to measure or verify when you visit. Using the wrong gauge will result in a stud that's too loose or impossible to insert. Do not force a stud into a piercing—mismatched gauge causes irritation and potential scarring.