The daith piercing, known for its unique placement in the inner cartilage fold of the ear, is a popular choice for those seeking both style and potential migraine relief. But before you take the plunge, understanding the gauge (thickness) of the jewelry is crucial for proper healing and comfort.
Typically, a daith piercing is done with a 16-gauge needle. This is a standard size for cartilage piercings because it allows for proper placement and healing without causing excessive trauma. While some piercers might use a slightly smaller or larger gauge depending on individual ear anatomy, 16g is the most common and generally recommended.
What Does Gauge Mean in Piercings?
Before we dive deeper into daith-specific gauges, let's clarify what "gauge" means in the piercing world. Gauge refers to the thickness of the needle and the jewelry used for the piercing. The lower the number, the thicker the needle and jewelry. Therefore, a 16-gauge needle is thicker than an 18-gauge needle.
Why is 16 Gauge Common for Daith Piercings?
The 16-gauge needle offers a balance between several factors:
- Sufficient Strength: The daith piercing is located in a dense area of cartilage. A thicker gauge (like 16g) provides enough support to ensure the piercing doesn't close up easily during the healing process.
- Reduced Trauma: While a thicker needle might sound scary, using the appropriate gauge minimizes tissue damage and promotes faster healing. Using a much thinner needle risks increased trauma.
- Jewelry Selection: A 16-gauge piercing opens up a wide range of jewelry options, allowing for more stylistic choices once the piercing is healed.
Can a Daith Piercing Be Done with a Different Gauge?
While 16-gauge is the standard, there might be exceptions:
- Ear Anatomy: In cases of unusually thick or thin cartilage, a piercer might adjust the gauge slightly. This should always be discussed with your piercer beforehand. They will assess your anatomy to determine the most suitable gauge for your specific ear.
- Piercer Preference: While rare, some piercers might have personal preferences within a small range, but it's unlikely to stray far from the 16g standard.
What Gauge Jewelry Should I Use After My Daith Piercing Heals?
Once your daith piercing is fully healed (this can take several months), you can explore different jewelry options. While 16g remains common, you might choose to go slightly thinner, but only with the guidance of your piercer. Attempting to change the jewelry gauge yourself without proper training could lead to infection or damage.
What About Smaller or Larger Gauges for Daith Piercings?
Using a gauge significantly smaller than 16g could result in:
- Increased Risk of Rejection: The piercing might not stay in place, as the smaller gauge doesn't offer enough support for the dense cartilage.
- More Difficult Healing: A smaller gauge increases the chance of the piercing closing up before it's fully healed.
Using a much larger gauge than 16g is generally not recommended for daith piercings due to increased trauma and a longer healing time.
Choosing the Right Piercer is Key
The best way to ensure you receive the appropriate gauge for your daith piercing is by selecting a reputable and experienced piercer. They will assess your ear and choose the best gauge for your individual anatomy.
Remember, always consult a professional piercer before getting a daith piercing, or any piercing. They can answer your questions and ensure you get a safe and satisfying result.
