Stretching Your Ears: How to Avoid Common Mistakes and Pitfalls

1. What does stretching your ears do?

• Stretching your ears involves gradually increasing the size of the piercing hole in your earlobe, usually by inserting larger and larger jewelry.

2. Is it good to stretch your ears?

• Whether stretching your ears is "good" or not is subjective and depends on personal preference. Some people find stretched ears aesthetically pleasing while others do not.

3. Do stretched ears go back to normal?

• Stretched ears may shrink back to their original size, but the degree of shrinking can vary depending on factors such as the size of the stretch, the length of time the ear has been stretched, and individual differences in skin elasticity.

4. What is the point of no return for stretched ears?

• The point of no return for stretched ears varies from person to person and can depend on a variety of factors such as how much the ear has been stretched and how long it has been stretched for.

5. Is 0g to 00g a big jump?

• Going from 0g to 00g is a jump of 2 millimeters in diameter, which is considered a moderate increase in size.

6. How big can you stretch your ears before it's irreversible?

• The degree to which stretched ears can be reversed varies, but generally, the larger the stretch, the less likely it is to fully reverse.

7. How long do stretched ears last?

• The longevity of stretched ears can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the stretch, how long the ear has been stretched, and how well the ear has been cared for.

8. How much does it cost to get your ears stretched?

• The cost of getting your ears stretched can vary depending on a variety of factors such as the location, the piercer, and the jewelry used. On average, the cost of getting your ears pierced with a standard needle can range from $20-$50, and the cost of stretching your ears can range from $10-$50 per stretch, not including the cost of jewelry. However, it is important to note that it is generally recommended to get your ears stretched by a professional piercer using high-quality jewelry, which may cost more. Here at BodyJ4You, we offer DIY ear stretching kits for a fraction of the price and we include aftercare in most of our gauges kits.

9. Are stretched ears attractive?

• The idea of stretched ears as attractive or unattractive can vary greatly depending on cultural and personal preferences. Some people find stretched ears attractive and view it as a form of self-expression or body modification, while others may not find it appealing. Ultimately, whether stretched ears are considered attractive or not is subjective and can vary from person to person. It is important to make decisions about body modifications based on your own personal preferences and not solely on the opinions of others.
• Some people who are drawn to alternative or subculture aesthetics may find stretched ears attractive, while others may appreciate it as a form of self-expression and body modification. Additionally, some people may simply find stretched ears aesthetically pleasing or interesting. Ultimately, the reasons why someone may find stretched ears attractive can be complex and personal.

10. Should I take my gauges out to shower?

• If you have a new piercing or a fresh stretch, it is generally recommended to avoid getting your ears wet for the first 24-48 hours to allow the skin to heal properly. After this initial period, it is generally safe to shower or bathe with your gauges in as long as you clean them regularly and thoroughly to avoid infection. Don’t let soap get stuck, make sure you rinse your piercings thoroughly.
• If your ears are fully healed from stretching, you can wear your gauges in the shower if you wish. However, it is important to keep them clean and dry after showering to avoid irritation or infection. It is also important to avoid exposing your stretched ears to harsh chemicals or soaps, as they can dry out the skin and cause irritation. Additionally, it is recommended to remove your gauges periodically to clean them and to allow your skin to breathe. We recommend using the BodyJ4You jojoba oil and the BodyJ4You aftercare balm.

11. Can you sleep with tapers in?

• It is not recommended to sleep with tapers in your ears as they can cause irritation, discomfort, and even injury. Tapers are not designed to be worn for extended periods of time and can put pressure on the skin and tissue of the ear, which can lead to stretching or tearing. Additionally, tapers can become dislodged or fall out during sleep, which can be dangerous and increase the risk of infection. If you are in the process of stretching your ears, it is recommended to wear single-flare plugs or tunnels made from high-quality materials that are comfortable and safe to wear for extended periods of time, including while sleeping.

12. Are tapers bad for stretching?

• The use of tapers for stretching can be a matter of preference and may not necessarily be bad for stretching if done properly. However, it is important to be cautious when using tapers for stretching as they can cause injury or damage to the ear if not used correctly. Tapers should only be used for short periods of time and should be followed by the insertion of a plug or tunnel made from high-quality materials. Additionally, it is important to avoid skipping sizes or stretching too quickly, as this can cause undue stress on the skin and tissue of the ear. Ultimately, the decision to use tapers for stretching should be based on personal preference and a thorough understanding of the risks and potential complications.

13. How many sizes can you stretch your ears at once?

• The number of sizes you can stretch your ears at once depends on individual factors, but it is generally recommended to stretch slowly and gradually to avoid injury.

14. Should you go to a professional to get your ears stretched?

• While it is not necessary to go to a professional to get your ears stretched, it is generally recommended, especially if you are new to the process or have never stretched your ears before. A professional piercer can provide guidance on the proper techniques for stretching and can ensure that the process is done safely and without complications. Additionally, a professional piercer can help you choose the appropriate materials and sizes of jewelry for your specific needs, and can answer any questions or concerns you may have. However, some people choose to stretch their ears at home using gauges kits (we recommend using a BodyJ4You gauges kit with aftercare), which can be a safe and effective option as long as proper techniques are followed and high-quality materials are used. Ultimately, the decision to go to a professional or to stretch your ears at home should be based on personal preference and confidence in your ability to do so safely.

15. Why shouldn't you use tapers to stretch your ears?

• The use of tapers for stretching can be a matter of preference and may not necessarily be bad for stretching if done properly. However, it is important to be cautious when using tapers for stretching as they can cause injury or damage to the ear if not used correctly. Tapers should only be used for short periods of time and should be followed by the insertion of a plug or tunnel made from high-quality materials. Additionally, it is important to avoid skipping sizes or stretching too quickly, as this can cause undue stress on the skin and tissue of the ear. Ultimately, the decision to use tapers for stretching should be based on personal preference and a thorough understanding of the risks and potential complications.

16. Is it bad if your ear bleeds when stretching?

• Bleeding is not uncommon when stretching your ears, especially if you are stretching too quickly or using improper techniques. A small amount of bleeding is usually not a cause for concern and can be stopped by applying pressure to the area with a clean cloth or tissue. However, if bleeding is excessive or continues for an extended period of time, it may be a sign of injury or trauma to the ear, and medical attention should be sought. Additionally, if you experience severe pain, swelling, or infection, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. It is also important to ensure that you are using high-quality materials and following proper techniques for stretching to minimize the risk of injury or complications.

17. Is 00g half an inch?

• 00g is approximately 9.2mm in diameter, which is slightly less than half an inch.

18. What size gauge will shrink back?

• The size gauge at which your stretched ears will shrink back to their original size can vary depending on factors such as how long you have been at that size, how quickly you stretched, and individual differences in healing and elasticity. However, a common size that many people say their ears can shrink back from is around 2 gauge (6mm) or smaller. This is not a hard and fast rule, and some people may be able to shrink back from larger sizes while others may not be able to fully shrink back even at smaller sizes. It is important to note that once you have stretched your ears to a larger size, there is no guarantee that they will fully shrink back to their original size, so it is important to consider this before stretching.

19. How long will it take to stretch my ears to 00?

• The length of time it takes to stretch your ears to 00 gauge (10mm) can vary depending on various factors, including your body's individual healing and stretching process, the methods you use for stretching, and how your body reacts to the process.
• On average, it may take anywhere from a few months to a year or more to reach 00 gauge from a standard piercing size, such as 20 or 18 gauge. It is important to stretch slowly and gradually to allow the skin to properly heal and accommodate to the new size, which can help reduce the risk of injury, pain, or tearing. Rushing the process or attempting to stretch too quickly can result in complications, and it is important to listen to your body and adjust your stretching pace accordingly.
• Ultimately, the common time frame for stretching to 00 gauge can vary from person to person, and it is important to prioritize safety and patience over speed.

20. How long should I leave tapers in before switching to plugs?

• When stretching your ears, it is generally recommended to leave tapers in place for a short period of time, typically no more than a few hours to a day, before switching to plugs. This allows the skin to adjust and settle around the new size of the taper, reducing the risk of injury or complications when inserting plugs.
• It is important to note that the length of time you should leave tapers in before switching to plugs may vary depending on individual factors such as healing time, skin sensitivity, and stretching technique. It is important to listen to your body and adjust your stretching pace accordingly, giving your ears adequate time to heal between stretching sessions.
• When switching from tapers to plugs, it is recommended to choose plugs that are the same size as the taper to ensure a comfortable fit and minimize the risk of injury. It is also important to use high-quality materials and proper techniques when stretching to minimize the risk of infection, tearing, or other complications.

21. Will 00g stretched ears shrink back to normal?

• Some people report that their ears shrunk back to close to their original size after taking out jewelry, while others report that their ears remained slightly stretched or never fully returned to their original size.
• Factors that may affect whether or not stretched ears shrink back to their original size include the size of the gauge, the length of time the ears were stretched, and individual differences in skin elasticity and healing. It is generally recommended to give stretched ears several months to a year to fully heal and shrink back.
• If you are concerned about the size of your stretched ears and want to promote shrinkage, you can try massaging the lobes with vitamin E oil or other natural remedies, and avoid wearing jewelry that is too heavy or tight-fitting. However, it is important to keep in mind that once the tissue has been stretched, it may not fully return to its original size and shape.

22. What is the biggest stretched ear?

• The biggest stretched ear on record is over 4 inches in diameter. 
• The largest stretched earlobes on record belong to a man named Kalawelo Kaiwi from Hawaii. As of 2021, his earlobes were measured at 4.3 inches (109 mm) in diameter, or over 11 inches (28 cm) in circumference. Kaiwi has been stretching his earlobes for over 40 years, using a combination of weights and gradually larger plugs. While Kaiwi's stretched earlobes are certainly impressive, it is worth noting that extreme stretching can carry risks such as tearing, scarring, and infection. It is important to approach stretching with caution and to take proper care of stretched earlobes to minimize the risk of complications.

23. What gauge size is best for ears?

• The ideal gauge size for ears can vary depending on personal preferences and individual anatomy. However, based on Reddit responses, a common gauge size that many people prefer for stretched ears is 2g (6mm). This is because it is considered a moderate size that is large enough to be noticeable but not so large that it becomes difficult to wear certain styles of jewelry or to conceal the stretched lobes if desired.
• It is important to keep in mind that everyone's ears are unique, and what works well for one person may not be the best choice for another. If you are interested in stretching your ears, it is important to do your research, start with a small size, and proceed slowly and carefully to minimize the risk of injury or other complications.

24. How big is a 0 gauge?

• 0 gauge is approximately 8mm in diameter.
• Here are a few common items that are approximately this size:
• The diameter of a standard pencil eraser
• The diameter of a AAA battery

25. Are you supposed to twist your gauges?

• Twisting gauges is generally not recommended because it can cause irritation, tearing, and slow down the healing process. Based on Reddit responses, most people do not twist their gauges, but instead, opt for gentle massaging or rotating the jewelry very slowly and carefully after cleaning to promote healthy blood flow and tissue elasticity. It is important to listen to your body and avoid twisting or rotating your gauges if you experience discomfort or pain. Additionally, it is important to keep your stretched ears clean and well-moisturized to prevent infections and promote healing.

26. How do I prepare my ears for stretching?

• Wait until your initial piercing is fully healed before stretching. This typically takes at least 6-8 weeks for a lobe piercing.
• Gradually increase the size of your earrings to help your earlobes adapt to the weight and tension of stretching.
• Keep your ears moisturized and healthy by applying natural oils, such as jojoba or emu oil, or using specialized ear stretching balms - we recommend BodyJ4You jojoba oil and their aftercare balm.
• Massage your earlobes gently to promote healthy blood flow and tissue elasticity.
• Use high-quality, biocompatible jewelry made of materials like titanium, surgical steel, or glass.
• Be patient and take your time. Do not rush the stretching process and avoid jumping too many sizes at once.
• It is important to note that everyone's body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It is always a good idea to consult with a professional piercer or doctor if you have any concerns or questions about stretching your ears.

27. Why do my gauges stink?

• The smell coming from stretched ears is usually caused by the buildup of dead skin cells, oils, and bacteria that accumulate in and around the jewelry. Here are some common tips suggested by Reddit users to reduce the smell of stretched ears: 
• Clean your ears regularly using a mild soap or saltwater solution to remove any buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals or alcohol-based products, which can irritate the skin.
• Dry your ears thoroughly after showering or swimming to prevent moisture from accumulating in your earlobes.
• Rotate your jewelry frequently to prevent it from getting stuck and to allow airflow around your earlobes.
• Avoid wearing porous or cheap jewelry, which can trap bacteria and odors more easily.
• Use specialized ear stretching balms or oils to keep your ears moisturized and healthy.
• Consider switching to non-metal jewelry, such as glass or silicone, which may be less likely to harbor bacteria.
• It is important to note that some odor is normal and expected when stretching your ears, but if the smell is unusually strong or accompanied by pain or discharge, you should consult with a professional piercer or doctor as it may be a sign of infection.

28. Can I just wear tapers?

• Tapers should only be used for short periods of time and should be followed by the insertion of a plug or tunnel made from high-quality materials. It is not recommended to wear tapers as jewelry as they are not designed to be worn for extended periods of time and can cause damage to the ear.

29. What is the best lubricant for ear stretching?

• There are different lubricants that can be used for ear stretching, but the most commonly recommended one is jojoba oil. Jojoba oil is gentle, natural, and hypoallergenic, and it helps to moisturize and soften the skin, making it easier to insert jewelry. We also recommend the BodyJ4You aftercare balm.

30. Is it bad to stretch with silicone tunnels?

• Stretching with silicone tunnels is a preference and can be an effective method for those with healed earlobes. However, it's important to note that silicone tunnels should not be used on unhealed or newly stretched ears as they can trap bacteria and cause infection. It's also important to ensure that the silicone tunnels are of high quality and properly sized to prevent tearing or damage to the earlobe. Overall, it's recommended to use silicone tunnels as a supplement to other stretching methods, rather than as the primary method of stretching.

31. What is glass dead stretching?

• Glass dead stretching is a method used to stretch piercings that involves inserting a glass plug or other smooth, non-porous object into the piercing and leaving it in place for an extended period of time to gradually stretch the tissue. This method is called "dead" stretching because the stretching process is done passively, without any force or pressure being applied to the tissue.

  The idea behind dead stretching is to allow the tissue to adjust gradually to the larger size of the plug or jewelry, minimizing the risk of injury or tearing. Glass plugs are often used because they are non-porous and less likely to harbor bacteria, and their smooth surface reduces the risk of irritation or damage to the tissue.

32. Why shouldn't you wear tapers as jewelry?

• Tapers are a tool that is commonly used for stretching piercings. They have a conical shape that gradually widens, allowing the piercing to stretch incrementally. While tapers can be useful for stretching piercings, they should not be worn as jewelry.

  The primary reason for this is that tapers are not designed to be worn long-term. They are a temporary tool that is only intended to be used during the stretching process. Wearing a taper as jewelry can put undue stress on the piercing, leading to discomfort, irritation, and even injury. 

  Instead of wearing tapers as jewelry, it is recommended to use plugs or tunnels that are specifically designed for stretched piercings. These jewelry pieces are typically made from materials such as surgical steel, titanium, or glass, which are safe for long-term wear and less likely to cause irritation or injury. It is important to choose jewelry that is the appropriate size and shape for the stretched piercing, and to follow proper aftercare techniques to maintain healthy and comfortable piercings.

33. Can I stretch my ears every 2 weeks?

• Stretching your ears every 2 weeks is generally not recommended, as this can be too rapid of a stretching process and can increase the risk of injury or other complications. It is important to allow sufficient time for your ears to heal and adjust to each stretch before attempting to stretch them further.
• The amount of time needed between stretches can vary depending on several factors, including the initial size of the piercing, the thickness and elasticity of your skin, and your individual healing ability. In general, it is recommended to wait at least 4-6 weeks between stretches, and in some cases, it may be necessary to wait even longer.
• It is also important to use proper stretching techniques, such as using lubrication, gentle pressure, and avoiding forcing jewelry into the piercing. If you experience pain, bleeding, or other signs of injury during the stretching process, you should stop and allow your ears to heal before attempting to stretch them further.
• In summary, it is important to be patient and allow sufficient time for your ears to heal between stretches. Rushing the stretching process can increase the risk of injury or other complications, so it is important to proceed slowly and carefully.

34. Will fully healed stretched ears ever close?

• Stretched earlobes, also known as ear gauges, may or may not close completely after they have been stretched. The ability of the earlobe to close will depend on several factors, including the size of the stretched hole, the length of time the piercing has been stretched, and individual skin elasticity.

  In general, smaller stretched earlobes are more likely to close than larger ones. If the stretched piercing is small and has been stretched for a relatively short amount of time, there is a greater likelihood that the piercing will close completely if the jewelry is removed. However, if the piercing has been stretched to a larger size over a longer period of time, it is less likely that the piercing will fully close.

  Even if the stretched piercing does not close completely, it may still shrink in size to some degree. This means that a smaller gauge jewelry may be able to fit into the piercing, but it may not close entirely.

  It is important to note that the stretching process can cause permanent damage to the earlobe tissue, which can affect its ability to close fully. If you are considering stretching your earlobes, it is important to understand the risks and potential long-term consequences, and to proceed slowly and carefully to minimize the risk of injury or permanent damage.

35. What is the black stuff in my ear piercing hole?

• The black stuff in your ear piercing hole is most likely a buildup of dead skin cells, oil, and dirt that has accumulated in the piercing. This buildup is commonly referred to as "ear cheese" or "piercing crust" and can occur with any type of piercing, including earlobes, cartilage, and body piercings.

  The buildup of dead skin cells and oils is a natural process and is not necessarily a cause for concern. However, if the buildup becomes excessive or if the piercing becomes infected, it can cause discomfort, itching, and inflammation.

  To prevent the buildup of ear cheese and maintain healthy piercings, it is important to clean your piercings regularly with saline solution or another gentle cleanser. You can also use a cotton swab or clean cloth to gently remove any excess buildup from the piercing site. Avoid using harsh soaps or alcohol-based products, as these can irritate the skin and disrupt the natural healing process.

  If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, it is important to seek medical attention to prevent the infection from worsening. In most cases, a buildup of ear cheese is a normal part of the healing process and can be easily managed with proper care and maintenance of your piercings.

36. Why is there so much gunk in my ear piercing?

• The gunk that accumulates in your ear piercing is most likely a mixture of dead skin cells, oil, and other debris that has built up around the piercing site. This buildup is a natural part of the healing process and is a common occurrence with any type of piercing, including earlobes, cartilage, and body piercings.

  The amount of gunk that accumulates can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the piercing, the type of jewelry used, and individual skin and hygiene habits. Poor hygiene practices, such as failing to clean your piercing regularly or touching the piercing with dirty hands, can increase the amount of gunk that accumulates.

  In most cases, a buildup of gunk is not necessarily a cause for concern and can be easily managed with proper care and maintenance of your piercing. To reduce the amount of gunk that accumulates, it is important to clean your piercing regularly with saline solution or another gentle cleanser. You can also use a cotton swab or clean cloth to gently remove any excess buildup from the piercing site.

  If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, it is important to seek medical attention to prevent the infection from worsening. In general, good hygiene practices and regular cleaning of your piercing can help to reduce the amount of gunk that accumulates and promote healthy healing of your piercing.

37. Why shouldn't you spin your earrings?

• It is generally not recommended to spin your earrings as it can cause damage to the healing tissue of the piercing site. Spinning the earrings can cause the post to move back and forth, creating friction against the healing tissue and potentially causing irritation or injury.

  Additionally, spinning the earrings can disrupt the natural healing process of the piercing and increase the risk of infection or other complications. The earrings should be left in place for several weeks to allow the piercing to heal properly, and should only be removed or adjusted as needed for cleaning or other maintenance.

  In most cases, it is not necessary to spin your earrings during the healing process. Instead, it is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer or healthcare professional, which may include cleaning the piercing regularly with saline solution or another gentle cleanser and avoiding certain activities that could disrupt the healing process, such as swimming or wearing tight clothing.

  If you experience any pain, redness, or other signs of infection, it is important to seek medical attention to prevent further complications. In general, it is best to be patient and allow your piercing to heal naturally, rather than attempting to speed up the healing process by spinning your earrings or engaging in other potentially harmful practices.

 

Ear stretching is a popular form of body modification that involves creating a hole in the earlobe or cartilage and inserting jewelry. While ear piercing is generally considered safe, it is important to take proper care of your piercing to prevent complications and promote healing. Some common questions and concerns about ear piercing include the presence of gunk or buildup around the piercing site, whether or not to spin your earrings, and whether or not stretched ears will ever close fully. In general, it is important to follow proper aftercare instructions and seek medical attention if you experience any signs of infection or other complications. With proper care and maintenance, ear gauges can heal properly and provide a beautiful and lasting form of self-expression.