Nose Ring Size
A nose ring beautifies facial features and expresses your culture. But which nose ring size is perfect for you? There are different variables for nose piercing sizes. You would see terms like gauge, diameter, and millimeter.
This helps you find the right fit for your piercing. So, you can wear your nose ring with confidence.
What does “Nose Ring Size” actually mean?
A nose ring size actually covers two things.
- Gauge: It is the thickness of the wire. The part that goes through the piercing.
- Diameter: This is the inner width of the nose ring or hoop. It determines how the ring will fit around your nostril. We check the diameter for only nose rings or hoops, not for studs.
Note: You also need to check the post length if you are buying a nose stud. It is the length of the bar that goes through the nose.
Nose Ring Size Chart
You can use this simple nose ring size chart as a quick reference. It shows the most common gauge sizes, their measurements in millimeters and inches.
| Gauge | mm | Inches | How It’s Usually Used |
| 22G | 0.6 mm | 1/40″ | Thinnest common size |
| 20G | 0.8 mm | 1/32″ | Most common nostril piercing size |
| 18G | 1.0 mm | 3/64″ | Slightly thicker |
| 16G | 1.2 mm | 1/16″ | Common for septum piercings |
| 14G | 1.6 mm | 5/64″ | Thick and used for septum piercings |
Here are the common diameter sizes you’ll find for nose hoops and rings.
| Diameter (mm) | Fit |
| 6 mm | Very small: Snug, sits tight against the nostril |
| 7 mm | Small: a popular “just right” option |
| 8 mm | Medium: The most common, universally flattering size |
| 9 mm | Medium-large |
| 10 mm | Large: Noticeable gap |
| 12 mm+ | Extra large for a bold look |
Nose Ring Sizes: Smallest to Largest
Lining up nose ring sizes from smallest to largest? Here’s the order from thinnest jewelry to the thickest:
22 gauge → 20 gauge → 18 gauge → 16 gauge → 14 gauge
Yes, it goes backwards. A 22-gauge nose ring is actually the smallest one. If you’re buying your first nose ring, don’t worry too much about all the sizes. Most nostril piercings use between 18 and 20 gauge. So there’s a good chance your current jewelry is one of these sizes.
Different Ways to Find out Nose Ring Size?
You can follow these different methods to know about your nose size.
- Check your first nose ring: Do you still have the nose ring the piercer used? Well, that’s your gauge. See its packaging and take measurements.
- Use a digital caliper: If you have a caliper at home, use it to measure the post thickness. Then compare the numbers to the above chart.
- Try the paper strip method: Take a paper strip. Wrap it around your piercing hole, the edge of the nostril, and its back. Measure that length in mm. This gives a rough idea about the inner diameter.
- Ask your Piercer: Just go to your piercer to measure your nose ring size. This is the most accurate option.
How to Choose the Right Nose Ring for the Next Event?
Buying a nose ring for yourself? Pause and ask yourself a few quick questions. They only take a minute, but they’ll save you from ordering the wrong piece:
- What is the gauge of my nose piercing?
- Want a snug or a hoop that fits?
- Am I buying a nose stud or a septum ring?
- For which occasion are you wearing a nose ring?
Conclusion
You can easily find a nose ring size. Just understand gauge, diameter, and post length to find a perfect fit. If you still find it confusing, visit your piercer to get exact measurements. So you can wear your nose ring with confidence and enjoy the perfect fit every day.