Septum Ring Sizes: What Gauge Is a Septum Piercing?
Sep 03, 2024
In this article, we will cover Septum ring sizes including Septum ring gauge sizes and diameters, and show you how to measure the diameter of a septum ring.
Septum piercing is relatively common, especially among younger people. The piercing itself is placed right in front of where the Septum cartilage begins, so the result is a piercing between your nostrils.
This is a suitable first piercing, as it isn't particularly painful. Healing time will depend on each individual person, though -- for some people, healing will be complete after 2-3 months. For others, it can take up to eight months.
You can use a wide variety of nose jewelry for Septum piercings. The most popular ones are circular barbells (horseshoe barbells), septum clickers, captive bead rings, and segment clicker rings.
What does a Septum piercing say about you? In more contemporary times, Septum piercings have been linked to punk rock and other counterculture movements.
Septum Ring Sizes
When it comes to Septum ring sizes, we need to consider 2 elements: gauge (thickness of the post) and diameter (size of the ring).
1. Standard Septum Piercing Sizes
What is the standard Septum ring size? As shown below, the standard Septum piercing size is 16 gauge (1.2 mm) for thickness and 8 mm (5/16") for diameter.
| Septum ring sizes chart | Gauge (Thickness) | Diameter (Ring size) |
| The standard size | 16 gauge (1.2 mm) | 8 mm (5/16") |
| Also available in | 18 gauge (1 mm) | 10 mm (3/8"), 12 mm (1/2") |
2. Septum Ring Gauge Sizes
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"Gauge" refers to the thickness of a piece of jewelry. Somewhat confusingly, the lower the number, the thicker the piece of jewelry.
For nose piercings, the most commonly used gauges are 16G (1.2mm), 18G (1.0mm), 20G (0.81mm), and 22G (0.76mm).
The majority of nose piercings typically use 18G or 20G jewelry. But in some cases, a skilled piercer may recommend a thinner or thicker piece of jewelry.
What Gauge Is a Septum Piercing?
Generally speaking, 16 gauge (1.2 mm) is the standard gauge for a Septum piercing. It is also available in 18 gauge (1 mm).
Piercers will often use a slightly larger needle (16 gauge) to make healing easier. The larger hole allows for some swelling and prevents the healing from getting too tight as it heals.
That being said, a good piercer will be able to look at your individual anatomy and help determine what gauge of jewelry works best for you.
3. Septum Ring Diameter
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The diameter of a nose ring (or hoop) is the measurement across the circle. A too-small ring can become uncomfortable or not fit at all. A larger ring might look overly bulky or run the risk of getting caught on clothing, etc.
The two most common diameters are 8mm (5/16") and 10mm (3/8"). However, you can find sizes ranging from 4.8mm (3/16") to 22mm (7/8").
What Diameter Septum Ring Should I Get?
Septum rings come in many different diameters, but the most common size is 5/16" (8 mm). The largest one is about 1/2" (12 mm). A good piercer can help you determine what diameter is best for your anatomy and the look you're trying to achieve.
How to Measure Septum Ring Diameter?
When measuring a Septum ring, we usually consider the inner diameter. The size of your nose does not matter when getting a piercing. The width of the septum between the nostrils does not matter.
Instead, it depends on how far up the Septum piercing is. So how do we measure the septum ring size?
- Take a piece of paper. Ensure it is lined up perfectly or as close to the (desired) piercing hole as possible, and mark that point.
- Take a ruler and measure the smallest inner diameter in millimeters so that you can wear the ring comfortably.
- Make sure it is not such a tight fit that it becomes constricting.
Safe Materials for Septum Piercing Jewelry
Regardless of jewelry type, make sure to choose a high-quality material to avoid infections or adverse reactions. Here are some good materials for Septum piercings:
1. Implant-Grade Titanium
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Examples of materials suitable for nose piercing include implant-grade titanium; Which is highly preferred as it is lightweight, durable, hypoallergic, nickel-free, non-corrosive, and adaptable to our body.
2. 14-Karat and 18-Karat Gold
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The 14-karat or 18-karat gold is another material that is highly recommended not only by piercing experts but also doctors. Its excellent quality of being inert makes it suitable for first piercings.
3. Surgical Stainless Steel
In addition, surgical stainless steel are highly endorsed due to their easy adaptability to the human body, and it also helps to stop infections. Even surgical-grade steel contains small amounts of nickel that could cause allergic reactions in those with skin sensitivities.
Common Types of Septum Piercing Jewelry
You can use a wide variety of nose jewelry for septum nose piercings. The most common ones are circular barbells (horseshoe septum piercings), septum clickers, captive bead rings, and plain rings.
You can also go with a fake Septum piercing if you want to avoid the pain and risks of nose piercings.
1. Horseshoe Barbells (Circular Barbells)
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These barbells are sometimes called "horseshoe septum piercing" because they look like horseshoes. Their curves make them especially suitable for septum piercings.
2. Septum Piercing Rings
Pros:
- They're less likely to become crooked
- There are lots of options ranging from simple metal hoops to ornately jeweled rings
- They usually remain securely in place
Cons:
- Captive bead rings can be very hard to close
- Thin hoops can be bent very easily
2.1 Captive Bead Rings
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These are rings that are "sealed" with a bead. Sometimes, the bead is inlaid with a gem to add some visual interest.
2.2 Septum Clickers
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Septum clickers are rings with a hinged segment that can be opened and shut. Septum clickers are easy to put in and look amazing!
2.3 Seamless Hoops
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Some rings are just loops of thin metal. And in some cases, plain "hoop" nose rings may have a small gem on the side.
3. Fake Septum Piercing
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You can also go with a fake Septum piercing if you want to avoid the pain and risks of nose piercings.
To Conclude
Septum piercing is relatively common, especially among younger people. And it is a suitable first piercing, as it isn't particularly painful. If you want to get one, make sure to choose the right Septum ring sizes so you can make the most of such a popular piercing.
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