INITIAL PIERCING: The starting point is a standard lobe piercing (usually a stud or ring) at 16G (1.2mm) to 18G (1.0mm).

TAPER TOOL: A Taper is used to stretch standard lobe piercings gradually, which in turn allows individuals to wear Plugs & Tunnels. This process requires patience, correct tools and proper hygiene to ensure a smooth procedure & reduced discomfort.

HYGIENE: When starting any process related to piercings/stretching, always keep hygiene as a top priority to avoid infection & further discomfort. With a cotton bud and Saline solution, clean your piercing, taper, plug and hands.

START STRETCHING: Essential part of ear-stretching is lubricating your tapers using water-based lubricants like Jojobo oil or Vitamin E oil. Gradually insert the lubricated taper into the piercing hole, gently until the thickest end sits flush with your earlobe.

INSERT PLUG/TUNNEL: As the taper is pushed through the earlobe, follow the taper with your desired Plug or Tunnel, immediately. If your plug has flares or O-rings, ensure they sit properly into the hole.

PRO-TIP: Stretching too quickly can cause tearing, scarring, or blowouts, so make sure to stretch gradually and gently.

HEALING TIME: A general rule is to wait anywhere between 4-10 weeks between each stretching stage, with larger sizes taking longer to heal. Although it is always best to listen to your body whilst maintaining a hygienic stretching process. For larger sizes like 0G (8mm) and above, wait at least 3 months before levelling up as stretches become more challenging and require greater healing times.

COMMON SIZES: Generally there are 3 levels of stretching you can build up to, or if you prefer, choose to stop your stretching journey at the first few levels. Once the standard smaller piercing sizes 16G (1.2mm) & 18G (1.0mm) have healed, you can switch gradually to:

- Beginner: 18G (1.0mm) – 14G (1.6mm)
- Intermediate: 8G (3mm) – 4G (5mm)
- Advanced: 0G (8mm) – 00G (10mm) and beyond.

AFTERCARE: Once your desired size plug or tunnel is pushed through the hole, ensure it sits snug and fit. There should be no pain or tightness after insertion.

Clean the area twice daily with a Saline solution dipped cotton pad. Do not use alcoholic solutions or anti-septic creams on the area.

Reduce touching the plug or moving it around as this can result in bacteria being introduced into the piercing and make sure to look out for any redness, swelling or discharge. Consult with a professional piercer if this is the case.

PRO-TIP: Choose a plug material appropriate for stretching, like surgical steel or glass, as they are non-porous and easy to clean.

Once you have reached your desired stretching stage or once your current stretched piercing has healed, there are endless jewellery choices you can choose from here at Monster Piercing.

Jewellery sizes also depend on the stage of stretching an individual is at, for example, fresh stretches will benefit more with materials and styles that aid in the healing process and minimise irritation. Once a stretch is healed, the options for materials and styles become more open. Below are some recommendations for all stretching enthusiasts:

FRESH STRETCHES: Aim to wear materials like Steel, Glass or Titanium which are easier to clean and less prone to cause infection or irritation as they are smoother on the skin and your fresh piercing. Single flared plugs are recommended for fresh stretches as they fit snug and don't require too much pressure to insert, combined with an O-ring on the back, this will ensure your plug sits comfortably too.

HEALED STRETCHES: Once your stretch stage has healed, you are free to shift to your preferred/favourite styles and materials, like Wood, Stone, UV (acrylic) or Silicone, which offer more variety, designs and freedom for self-expression.

PRO-TIP: For fresh stretches avoid Organic materials like wood, stone or horn as they are more prone to harbouring bacteria.