Definitive Handbook to Ear Stretching

Have you ever heard of ear stretching? If not, just search it on Google, and you'll find pictures of super stretched pierced holes. It's pretty eye-catching!

Normally, process of ear piercing is just a tiny hole made with a needle. Some call it ear gauging. Basically, it's the process of slowly making the holes in your earlobes bigger.

But, heads up, it's not a walk in the park. It takes a lot of time and effort because if you don't do it correctly, you can end up with scars, permanent damage, and even an infection. Before you dive in, do your research! Make sure you've researched and know everything there is to know about ear stretching. It's important to be well-informed before giving it a shot.

Determining the Size of The Stretch

Figuring out how big to stretch your ear is an important step in the ear stretching process. You don't want to stretch too quickly or too much, as that can lead to problems like tearing or thinning of the earlobe.

To determine the size of the stretch:

1. Start by considering your current piercing size. If you have a standard ear piercing, it's usually around 20-18 gauge (about 0.8-1.0mm).
2. Once you're set to go, start by slowly increasing the size using tapers for stretching kits.
3. Remember, go at your own pace and pay attention to what your body is telling you during the stretching process.

It's all about taking it slow and staying tuned in to how you feel. Your ear will give you signs if you're going too fast or encountering any discomfort. In general, it's safest to wait at least 4-6 weeks between each stretch to allow your ear enough time to heal and adjust to the new size.

Slow Stretching Is Ideal

Some people just can't wait and want to increase their ear size too quickly. Sorry to burst your bubble, but ear stretching takes time and patience. If you go to a professional piercer, they'll tell you why it's best to go slow. When you're stretching ears, go step by step with one gauge at a time. Don't rush! Wait until your ears are totally healed before going up to the next size. And hey, be careful with the materials you use – that part matters too.

How Long Does Ear Stretching Take

Feel free to stretch your ears whenever you're ready! But remember, it's important to have your piercer check if your ear piercings have fully healed. If you got your ears pierced recently, it's recommended to wait at least six months before starting the stretching process. Doing it this way helps make sure your ear stretch goes smoothly and evenly.

Closing of Stretched Ears

A lot of people wonder how long it takes for stretched ears to close up if you decide to remove your jewellery. Well, it really depends on the person.

There are a few things that can affect how long it takes, like how stretchy your skin is, the size of your earlobes, how long it took to stretch your ears initially, any issues you had during the stretching process, and how well you take care of your ears after stretching.

For smaller sizes, it usually takes around 4 months for the hole to close up. But for larger sizes, it can take anywhere from 1 to 2 years for the hole to fully close. Remember, everyone's ears are different, so your experience may vary.

Pain Level of Ear Stretching

Ear stretching can cause a slight stinging or tingling sensation, which is normal. However, if you feel pain after inserting the plug or taper, it could mean that the size is too big for your ear. In that case, your piercer might suggest using a smaller gauge.

Materials Needed for Ear Stretching 

It's important to prioritise safety when it comes to ear stretching, so we strongly recommend going to a reputable and trusted piercing shop rather than attempting it at home. A skilled professional will pierce your ears and allow them to heal properly, which can take several months. Take your time and find a licensed piercer who knows their stuff. It's worth it for a smoother and safer process.

Before choosing a piercer, do some research and read reviews to ensure they use sterilised equipment, minimising the risk of HIV or hepatitis transmission.

When you're into ear stretching, you'll need some key tools:

1. Tapers - These are long, pointed tools that your piercer will use to stretch your piercings. These tools come in various sizes, and the one you pick depends on how big you want your stretch to be. Tapers are usually made of steel or acrylic. Steel is popular due to its ease of insertion, but it can be more expensive.
2. Plugs - These are cool round-shaped jewellery things that your piercer pops into your stretched ear. They can be made from different stuff like steel, silicone, cool natural materials, or titanium.
3. Lubricant - This is like the superhero for making the taper slide into your skin without a hassle. You can grab some fancy ones from piercing shops, or if you're into natural vibes, go for jojoba oil or coconut oil. Easy peasy!

Remember, it's crucial to prioritise safety, proper healing, and professional guidance when it comes to ear stretching.