Stretching Your Ears: When to Say When
Ear stretching, also known as gauging, has become a popular trend among people looking to express themselves and their individuality through body modification. This process involves gradually stretching the piercing hole in the earlobe or other parts of the ear to accommodate larger jewellery, such as plugs or tunnels. However, it’s important to note that ear stretching is a permanent process that requires careful attention and patience to avoid injury or complications.
When to Start Ear Stretching
Before starting the ear stretching process, it’s important to have fully healed ear piercings. This means waiting at least 6 to 8 weeks after getting pierced before beginning to stretch. Starting too early can cause trauma to the piercing, leading to inflammation and infection.
The ideal starting size for ear stretching is typically around 18 to 20 gauge, which is the standard size for most earlobe piercings. However, it’s important to note that everyone’s ears are different, and the starting size may vary depending on the individual’s ear anatomy and skin elasticity.
How to Stretch Your Ears Safely
- Cleanliness and Hygiene
Maintaining proper cleanliness and hygiene is essential to avoid infection and other complications. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your ears or jewellery. Clean your jewellery with saline solution or an antimicrobial soap before inserting it into your ear. Avoid touching your ears or jewellery with dirty hands, and avoid swimming or soaking your ears in water during the stretching process.
- Gradual Stretching
Ear stretching should be done gradually to avoid tearing or damaging the skin. The stretching process should only be done once the ear has fully healed from the previous stretch. Start by inserting a slightly larger size than the current jewelry and leave it in for at least a few weeks before moving on to the next size. It’s important to be patient and not rush the process, as it can take several months or even years to achieve the desired size.
- Massage and Lubrication
Massaging your ears with a natural oil, such as jojoba or vitamin E oil, can help improve circulation and promote healing. Lubrication can also help make the stretching process smoother and more comfortable. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the jewellery before inserting it into your ear.
- Listen to Your Body
It’s important to pay attention to your body and listen to any discomfort or pain. If you experience any pain or discomfort during the stretching process, it’s important to stop immediately and wait until the ear has fully healed before attempting to stretch again.
When to Stop Ear Stretching
Ear stretching should be done gradually and carefully to avoid complications. It’s important to know when to stop stretching to avoid irreversible damage or disfigurement. Some signs that it’s time to stop stretching include:
- Pain or discomfort that persists even after the ear has fully healed
- Redness or inflammation that doesn’t improve with treatment
- Thin or fragile ear tissue that tears easily
- Difficulty inserting or removing jewelry
- Obvious signs of asymmetry or deformity
If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to stop stretching and seek medical attention if necessary.
Conclusion
Ear stretching can be a fun and unique way to express yourself through body modification. However, it’s important to approach the process with patience, care, and attention to avoid injury or complications. Remember to always maintain proper hygiene, stretch gradually, massage and lubricate your ears, and listen to your body. And most importantly, know when to stop to avoid irreversible damage or disfigurement.
You may also be interested in some of our other helpful article such as From Tragus to Helix: A Comprehensive Guide to Ear Piercing Types
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