Earrings and tattoos have long been a part of human culture. They symbolize beauty, personal expression, and sometimes even status. Many of such practices are rooted in a long human history and even tribal practices. But some of them have not diminished to mere historical trivia and are still alive and well today.

Ear gauging is one of the most prevalent practices. Although it consists of seemingly painful ear stretching, it intrigues many as a trend of aesthetic modification. Since I have stumbled upon ear gauging while researching ear health, I will cover not only the main steps of this practice but its many risks as well.

What is Ear Gauging (Stretching)?

Ear gauging, also known as ear stretching, involves gradually expanding a pierced hole in the earlobe. Special ear tapers are commonly used that are increased in size. This practice dates back to ancient civilizations, where it served as a cultural symbol, signifying status or tribal affiliation. In some cultures, it was a rite of passage, reflecting an individual’s journey into adulthood.

The primary aim of ear gauging in these historical contexts was not just body modification but also to accommodate various types of jewelry. These pieces, often made from natural materials like bone, wood, or stone, held significant cultural value. Today, ear gauging continues as a form of self-expression, with individuals choosing from a wide array of decorative plugs and tunnels.

The sensation of ear gauging varies between people, but usually, it causes discomfort or mild pain during the process. It’s essential to proceed slowly when increasing the size of the tapers to minimize risk and discomfort. Typically, the earlobe is stretched gradually over months or even years.

The size increments in ear stretching are small and measured in gauges. It’s a deliberate process, as stretching too quickly can cause tearing and scarring. Generally, stretching ears to sizes smaller than 8mm (0- gauge) is reversible. Beyond this, the gauging may become irreversible.

What You Need for Ear Stretching?

Embarking on ear stretching requires minimal tools, many of which are readily available in specialized ear stretching kits. These kits provide the essentials for a safe and effective stretching process.

Tapers

Tapers are cone-shaped tools that gradually increase in diameter and are used to slowly and gently stretch the earlobe. Tapers come in various materials like acrylic, glass, or surgical steel. A beginner might start with a small, acrylic taper, using it to incrementally enlarge their piercing over several weeks.

Plugs

After ear stretching with a taper, plugs are inserted to maintain the new size. Plugs are available in various materials like wood, silicone, or stone, each offering a unique aesthetic look. Someone at a 6mm gauge might use a wooden plug for a natural look, keeping it in place until the next size up.

Lubricant

Lubricants aid in the gauging process, reducing friction and gauging discomfort. Options range from natural oils, like jojoba or emu, to specialty ear stretching balms. When using a taper, applying lubricant can ease the insertion, minimizing potential damage to the skin.

Antiseptic solution

To prevent infection, antiseptic solutions are also used after ear stretching and cleaning off the lubricant. They come in forms like saline sprays or medicated solutions. After gauging with a taper, one should clean the area with an antiseptic solution to ensure hygiene and prevent infections or irritation.

Steps for Proper Ear Stretching

1. Preparing your ears and instruments: Start with clean, healed earlobes. The best time for ear stretching is after a warm shower when the skin is more flexible. Sterilize all tools – tapers, plugs, and antiseptics before use. Make sure to find the best ear cleaner tool to ensure hygiene before proceeding to gauge ears.
2. Lubrication of earlobe: Apply a generous amount of lubricant to the ears. The type of lubricant may vary (e.g., natural oils or balsams). This step reduces friction and the risk of tearing. Skipping it can lead to injury or infections.
3. Inserting the ear taper: Slowly insert the taper into the piercing, stopping if you encounter significant resistance or pain. This process changes with larger tapers. If resistance is felt, wait at least a few weeks before attempting to stretch again.
4. Replacing the taper with an ear plug: Once the taper is in place and the ear has adjusted, replace it with a plug of the same size. This step becomes more delicate as you increase the stretch. Be cautious of the risk to the earlobe if gauging is done hastily or improperly.
5. Wait and Repeat: Regularly inspect your ears for signs of irritation, swelling, or infection. Professional ear stretching shows no adverse symptoms. If any issues arise, reassess your technique or downsize if necessary.
6. Post-care: After ear stretching, wash the ears gently and consider soaking them in a saline solution or using an antiseptic. Massaging the lobes can promote blood circulation, but it should be done gently to avoid strain.

It’s important to always listen to your body. If any step causes discomfort or pain, pause and reevaluate your ear stretching process. Ear stretching is a gradual process and should be performed slowly. As with most body piercing practices, patience is key to achieving your desired results safely.

What Size Do You Stretch to First?

For beginners, the starting point is typically a 16 or 14-gauge taper. This size is small enough to begin the ear stretching process safely for most people. A gauge refers to both the size of the piercing hole and the size of the plugs and tapers used in that hole. Gauges are used instead of inches or millimeters because they provide a standardized measurement specific to body piercing.

The best way to start is by consulting a professional piercer. He can pierce your ears, if not already done, and guide you on how to gauge further and care for your ears. If your ears have been pierced for some time, they may already be slightly larger than the standard 20 gauge.

There is no maximum size for ear stretching. While a common goal is 00 gauge (approximately 3/8 inches), some individuals stretch to sizes as large as 2 inches. The starting and ultimate size depend on personal preference, earlobe health, and commitment to the ear stretching process.

Possible Risks and Precautions

Frankly, I believe ear gauging isn’t a good idea for most people as there are significant risks involved. Blowouts, for example, occur when the skin inside the piercing is pushed out due to rapid ear stretching, leading to painful and unsightly bulges that may never heal. Similarly, tearing happens when ear stretching is too quick, and if you repeat it multiple times you risk scars.

Besides constant bleeding or the danger of hematoma forming, the worst risk of ear stretching is its permanence. Stretches to 8mm (0 gauge) and beyond tend to be irreversible. That’s what most websites propagating will say, at least. But a lot depends on the methods used, the individual’s skin elasticity, and the duration for which the plugs are worn.

Even stretching ears to a smaller size like a 12g gauge might not fully heal for some individuals. The internet is full of such reports. And even if the hole does close up after years of trying, the appearance of your ears may be permanently altered.

Infection of Ears

With each stretch, a new wound is created, presenting a significant risk of infection. Ear infection symptoms require immediate attention, so it’s important to notice their signs quickly.

• Redness occurs as the blood vessels expand to bring more blood to the infected pricing site.
• Swelling is a result of inflammation. It’s also the body’s response to protect the infected area making it thicker than normal.
• Discharge from the piercing site is a sign of the body actively fighting an infection. It’s a mixture of dead cells and bacteria that is removed to fight the infection.
• Pain is the most obvious sign of an infected ear. Persistent, sharp, and intense pain must but treated immediately.

Preventive measures include using sterilized tapers and the plug, maintaining good body hygiene, and avoiding further ear stretching. Regular cleaning with saline solution and ensuring the jewelry is made from hypoallergenic materials can also reduce the risk of infection.

Treatment of infection typically involves antibiotics and may require the removal of the jewelry to allow the infection to clear. It’s crucial to address any signs of infection promptly to prevent complications.

Tips Before and After Ear Gauging (Stretching)

While it’s vital to approach the process of ear stretching with care, you should also be mindful of before and after stretching procedures. Maintaining cleanliness to avoid infections and gently massaging the earlobes to improve circulation should be a no-brainer. It’s also important to be mindful of activities like sleeping, exercising, and showering, as these can impact the stretched ears.

Certain sleep positions, for example, may put pressure on the ears, and heavy exercise can cause sweat and bacteria to accumulate, increasing ear infection risk. Not to mention that both of these activities can also injure ears during the sensitive ear gauge period.

Never rush the ear stretching process and always wait the recommended time between stretches. This prevents tearing and most other other complications. Be attentive to your body’s signals – if you feel pain or resistance, it’s a sign to stop and reassess.

Lastly, the use of high-quality jewelry cannot be overstated. This means choosing materials that are less likely to cause reactions, such as surgical steel, titanium, or glass, and opting for designs that ensure comfort and safety. Investing in superior tools and jewelry is essential for a successful and safe stretching experience.

All these tips apply not just to ear gauging but also to other forms of body modification like nose rings and lobe or eyebrow piercing. A professional piercer can recommend the best gear for your needs, so it’s always best to look for them as a guide.

Ear Gauge (Stretch) Healing Process

The healing process happening between ear stretching periods is a critical phase. Understanding what to expect can help you gauge whether your ears are healing normally or if there might be issues.

Immediately after stretching, it’s normal for people to experience some tenderness and mild discomfort. This should subside within a day or two. The ears may also feel warm to the touch due to increased blood flow. In the first 48 hours, a slight redness is common, but it should not be accompanied by excessive swelling or pain.

As the first week progresses, any initial discomfort should gradually decrease. The stretched earlobes begin to adjust to their new size. It’s important to keep the area clean and avoid unnecessary touching or moving of the earrings, tapers, or plugs to prevent body irritation.

By the end of the first month, the earlobes should feel more comfortable and less sensitive. The tissue inside the stretched piercing will have started to heal and form new skin. However, this doesn’t mean the ears are fully healed and ready for the next size. Complete healing can take more, depending on you care for the ears.

Conclusion on Gauging In-Depth