The daith piercing, known for its trendy look and potential migraine relief benefits, is typically performed with a 16-gauge needle. This is a common gauge for many cartilage piercings due to the thicker nature of cartilage compared to earlobe tissue. Let's dive deeper into the specifics and address some frequently asked questions.
What Does Gauge Mean in Piercings?
Before we get into the specifics of daith piercings, it's important to understand what "gauge" means in the context of body piercings. Gauge refers to the thickness of the needle and the jewelry used. The lower the number, the thicker the needle and jewelry. A 16-gauge needle is relatively thin, but still substantial enough to pierce cartilage effectively and safely. Thinner needles (higher gauge numbers) might be used for earlobes, which are softer and less dense than cartilage.
Why is a 16 Gauge Used for Daith Piercings?
The daith piercing is located in the inner fold of cartilage in the ear. This cartilage is dense and requires a thicker needle to successfully pierce without causing excessive trauma or tearing. A 16-gauge needle strikes a good balance—it's thick enough to create a clean piercing through the tough cartilage, but not so thick as to cause excessive pain or prolonged healing time.
What Size Jewelry is Used Initially?
While the piercing itself is done with a 16-gauge needle, the initial jewelry inserted is also typically 16-gauge. This allows for proper healing and prevents the piercing from closing prematurely. After the initial healing period (which can take several months), you might be able to downsize to a smaller gauge, but this should only be done with the guidance and expertise of a professional piercer.
Can a Daith Piercing Be Done With a Different Gauge?
While 16-gauge is the standard, a skilled and experienced piercer might use a slightly different gauge needle depending on the individual's anatomy. However, deviations from 16-gauge are uncommon, and a 16-gauge needle is generally considered the best practice for this particular piercing. It's crucial to discuss any concerns or preferences with your piercer before the procedure.
What Happens if the Gauge is Too Small?
Using a smaller gauge (higher number) needle for a daith piercing would likely result in a tear in the cartilage, rather than a clean puncture. This increases the risk of infection, prolonged healing time, and unsatisfactory results. The piercing might even reject the jewelry entirely.
What Happens if the Gauge is Too Large?
While less common, using a larger gauge needle (lower number) might increase the risk of excessive trauma to the cartilage during the piercing process. This also increases healing time and could cause more discomfort.
Choosing a Reputable Piercer
Remember, choosing a reputable and experienced piercer is paramount for a successful and safe daith piercing. They will use sterile equipment, have knowledge of proper piercing techniques, and be able to advise you on the appropriate gauge and jewelry for your anatomy. A professional piercer's experience and skill are critical in ensuring a positive outcome. Don't hesitate to ask questions and ensure you are completely comfortable with the process before proceeding.
