How to Choose the Right Gauge Size for Stretched Ears
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Shopping for ear plugs when you're new to stretching (or just new to a brand) can feel overwhelming. Gauge sizing has its own language, and if you've ever stared at "0g" and "00g" wondering what the difference is, you're in the right place.
Here's everything you need to know about ear gauge sizes, so you can order with confidence and actually get plugs that fit.
What Does "Gauge" Mean?
Gauge (abbreviated as "g") is the unit used to measure the thickness of ear plugs and tunnels. Here's the slightly confusing part: the lower the gauge number, the thicker the plug. So a 0g plug is thicker than a 2g, and a 00g is thicker than a 0g.
Once you get past 00g, sizing switches to millimeters and fractions of an inch, which is actually much easier to follow.
The Gauge Size Chart
| Gauge | Millimeters |
|---|---|
| 14g | 1.6mm |
| 12g | 2mm |
| 10g | 2.5mm |
| 8g | 3mm |
| 6g | 4mm |
| 4g | 5mm |
| 2g | 6mm |
| 0g | 8mm |
| 00g | 10mm |
| 1/2" | 12mm |
| 9/16" | 14mm |
| 5/8" | 16mm |
| 3/4" | 20mm |
| 7/8" | 22mm |
| 1" | 25mm |
How to Find Your Current Size
If you're not sure what size you're currently wearing, the easiest way is to measure the wearable length of your current plug with a ruler or calipers. You can also use a sizing kit — just insert the tapers until you find the one that fits comfortably without force.
When in doubt, go smaller. You can always size up; you can't undo a tear.
Which Size Should I Order?
Always order your current size, not the size you want to be. Plugs should slide in comfortably without stretching. If you have to force it, it's too big.
If you're actively stretching, wait until your ears have fully healed at your current size before moving up. The general rule is to wait at least 4–6 weeks between sizes, though larger sizes may need longer.
What Size Should Beginners Start At?
Most people start stretching from a standard piercing, which is typically 20g or 18g. The recommended starting point for stretching is 14g, as it's the smallest gauge commonly available in plugs and tunnels.
From there, you'd work your way up one size at a time: 14g → 12g → 10g → 8g → 6g → 4g → 2g → 0g → 00g, and so on.
A Note on Sizing at Pink Alien Babe
All of our plugs and tunnels are labeled with both gauge and millimeter measurements so you always know exactly what you're getting. Our Alien Skinz silicone tunnels start at 6g and go up to 1", while our Helios Gold Steel Tunnels cover everything from 14g all the way to 50mm.
Not sure where to start? Our Gauge & Plug Earrings collection → has something for every size and style.
The Golden Rules of Gauge Sizing
- Never skip sizes — go up gradually
- Always order your current size, not your goal size
- When in doubt, size down
- Healed ears are happy ears — don't rush the process
- Silicone is more forgiving for new stretches; steel is better for fully healed sizes
Happy stretching! 🛸