If you're planning on getting your nose pierced, you may already have an exact piercing type in mind. But if you're new to piercing, you might not realize just how many sizes (and types) of nose piercings are out there! Here's how to select your nose ring sizes.

Standard nose ring sizes explained

The most common nose ring gauges sizes are 18 gauge (1 mm) and 20 gauge (0.8 mm). However, piercers will often use a slightly larger needle (about 16 gauge/1.2 mm) to make healing easier. The larger hole allows for some swelling and prevents the healing from getting too tight as it heals.

The standard nose ring diameter sizes are 8 mm (5/16") and 10 mm (3/8"). A too-small ring can become uncomfortable or not fit at all. A larger ring might look overly bulky or run the risk of getting caught on clothing, etc.

black cat ring

Different nose ring sizes for different nose piercings

There are nine main types of nose piercings. Here they are, along with the gauges they commonly use:

1. Nostril piercing.

This is probably the most common nose piercing. It goes through the top part of the nostril. It's typically 18 gauge (1 mm), though some people might opt for the slightly thinner 20 gauge (0.8 mm) after the piercing heals.

    Nostril piercing pain, healing, placement, costs, jewelry, and aftercare

2. High nostril. 

This rare piercing looks like a nostril piercing but is placed higher up the bridge of your nose. It can be quite painful, so most use a relatively thin 18-gauge needle.

3. Septum. 

This piercing goes right in front of the septum cartilage. It's somewhat common, and some people call it a "bull" piercing because it looks like the ring through a bull's nose. Septum rings are typically 16 gauge, though you may sometimes see them done as 18 gauge piercings.

4. Septril.

This complex piercing involves first getting a septum piercing. That piercing is gradually stretched (ideally by a skilled piercer). After this, a smaller needle goes through the cartilage between the nostrils. The end result is a piercing that sits right between your nostrils. For this one, the initial septum piercing will be 14-16 gauge, and the final part will usually be 18 gauge or 20 gauge.

5. Austin bar.

This unusual piercing is named for the first person who received it. It's a straight barbell that goes through the tip of the nose. It makes it look like there's a little bead on each side of your nose. Many piercers use an 18 gauge needle, but your piercer will work with you to determine what gauge is best for you.

6. Nasallang. 

This piercing looks a little like the Austin bar, but it actually goes through the cartilage of your nose. It's usually a 16-18 gauge piercing.

7. Vertical tip/rhino.

This one is often called a "rhino" because it leaves a little raised "horn" at the tip of your nose. The other end of the piercing is over the skin on your septum. Like many other nose piercings, it's usually 18-22 gauge.

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8. Bridge. 

This piercing is also called an erl. It's placed right at the bridge of your nose so there is a bead on either side of the bridge. However, the barbell just goes through the skin above your nose. It's usually 12-14 gauge.

9. Third eye. 

This one is sometimes called a "forehead piercing," but it's really just a bridge piercing turned vertically. It sits right between your eyebrows and is usually a similar gauge to a bridge piercing.

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