You’re most likely past 20g and 18g by now, contemplating on the bigger stretch to take. Well, here are the things you need to know before getting a larger gauge.

There are various ways to having your ears stretched, often different from your initiation to the ear gauge. So it is important that you decide what kind of material you want to use next, particularly because your choice will have an impact on the stretching, your ear’s health and the over-all comfort you get with the material.

Most ear gauging professionals would recommend glass and organics. Glass or “cooled liquid” are highly attractive, smooth materials, while organics are various natural elements that contain healing ingredients. Titanium and Niobium are also widely used and suggested by pros for its bacteria-free characteristics; they are also highly fashionable choices to sport on your ear stretch.

Ask also about what the taper rings are made of as they come in various materials, some of which may pose health risks. You could also opt for Teflon tape when you’re ready to have your larger ear gauge. Teflon tapes are helpful to achieve readiness for stretching as they are simply wrapped around the jewelry before the item is placed back to your piercing. Just make sure that moisturizing agents like jojoba or emu oil is used during the process.

As there are recommended materials for stretching, there are also that should be warned about. This includes acrylic, an absorbent matter that generally becomes home for harmful bacteria. Being so, acrylic poses infection to your piercing and fresh stretch that is why professionals would never use it. If you wish to sport acrylic, make sure your ear stretch has fully healed, and only wear for a few hours to avoid absorption of harmful elements from the material, as well as contracting infections.

Also, avoid using improper materials such as straw, matches or anything that will cause harm to your piercing.