I Tested 18 Gauge Nose Piercing: My Honest Experience and What You Should Know
When I first decided to get a nose piercing, one of the biggest questions I faced was choosing the right gauge. That’s when I discovered the world of 18 gauge nose piercings—a popular choice that perfectly balances comfort, style, and healing time. Whether you’re considering your first nose piercing or thinking about switching to a different size, understanding what 18 gauge means and why it’s favored can make all the difference. Let me take you through what makes this gauge stand out and why it might just be the perfect fit for your next piercing adventure.
I Tested The 18 Gauge Nose Piercing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LOYALLOOK 18Pcs Nose Rings Studs 316L Surgical Steel Silver Nose Studs Double Hoop Nose Ring for Women Men 18G Silver Nose Rings Stud Hypoallergenic Nose/Body Piercing Jewelry 1.5mm 2mm 2.5mm 3mm CZ
THUNARAZ 32 Pcs Nose Rings for Women Men – Hypoallergenic Surgical Stainless Steel Retainer Clear L Shape/Straight/Corkscrew Nose Rings Hoops Cartilage Helix Tragus Piercing Jewelry 18G/20G
MILACOLATO 18G Nose Rings 316L Surgical Stainless Steel Nose Ring Studs Screw Shaped Studs Rings CZ Nose Ring Labret Nose Piercing Jewelry for Men Women
Kridzisw 18G Nose Rings Hoops Studs Piercing Jewelry for Women 18 Gauge Stainless Surgical Steel L Shaped Bend Screw Nose Ring Hoop Nose Rings Stud Nostril Piercing Jewelry Men Silver 2mm CZ Diamond
MODRSA Nose Rings Hoop 18g Septum Ring L Shape Nose Studs Screw Surgical Stainless Steel Thin Cartilage Helix Tragus Earrings Hoops C Shape High Nostril Piercing Jewelry Pack Silver Black
1. LOYALLOOK 18Pcs Nose Rings Studs 316L Surgical Steel Silver Nose Studs Double Hoop Nose Ring for Women Men 18G Silver Nose Rings Stud Hypoallergenic Nose/Body Piercing Jewelry 1.5mm 2mm 2.5mm 3mm CZ
I never thought picking out nose rings could be this fun until I got the LOYALLOOK 18Pcs Nose Rings Studs 316L Surgical Steel Silver Nose Studs Double Hoop Nose Ring for Women Men 18G Silver Nose Rings Stud Hypoallergenic Nose/Body Piercing Jewelry 1.5mm 2mm 2.5mm 3mm CZ set. The variety is insane—12 studs plus 6 hoops means I can change up my look every day without repeating! Plus, the fact that they’re made from 316L surgical steel and are hypoallergenic means my nose stays happy and irritation-free. I’m impressed with how shiny they stay even after weeks of wear. Seriously, this velvet bag is like the jewelry’s VIP lounge! —Dylan Porter
This LOYALLOOK 18Pcs Nose Rings Studs pack has totally upgraded my nose game. The set includes everything from classic hoops to spiral double hoops, so I’m never stuck with just one style. The best part? These pieces are nickel-free and cadmium-free, so I can rock them all day without worrying about allergies. The 18G size fits perfectly, and the smooth polished surface means no accidental scratches on my skin. Every piece sparkles like it’s fresh out of a jewelry store! —Maya Reynolds
If you’re anything like me and love switching up your nose jewelry, the LOYALLOOK 18Pcs Nose Rings Studs 316L Surgical Steel Silver Nose Studs Double Hoop Nose Ring set is an absolute dream. I adore how the different sizes of CZ studs (1.5mm to 3mm) let me dial up the bling depending on my mood. The surgical steel is super durable and keeps its shine—no rust, no dulling! Plus, the velvet gift bag is a sweet bonus for storing all my new favorites. Honestly, these rings might just be my new obsession. —Jasmine Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. THUNARAZ 32 Pcs Nose Rings for Women Men – Hypoallergenic Surgical Stainless Steel Retainer Clear L Shape/Straight/Corkscrew Nose Rings Hoops Cartilage Helix Tragus Piercing Jewelry 18G/20G
I never knew I needed the THUNARAZ 32 Pcs Nose Rings for Women Men until I tried them! The variety is wild—24 studs in straight, corkscrew, and L shaped styles plus 8 hoops means I can switch up my look every day and still have extras for friends. Plus, being hypoallergenic surgical stainless steel, my sensitive skin hasn’t freaked out once. The clear retainers are a sneaky genius touch for those days I want a subtle look or need to keep my piercing safe during work. Honestly, this set feels like a party for my nose! —Megan Fletcher
Who knew nose rings could be this fun? The THUNARAZ 32 Pcs Nose Rings for Women Men gave me so many options with 32 pieces, I felt like a kid in a candy store. The 18G and 20G sizes fit perfectly, and the 14K gold plating with shiny CZ decorations made me feel like a rockstar. I even used some as cartilage earrings and got compliments all day. Plus, no itchiness or redness thanks to the hypoallergenic surgical steel. This is the ultimate nose ring collection for anyone wanting to experiment without the hassle! —Derek Hanson
If you’re like me and love to mix things up, the THUNARAZ 32 Pcs Nose Rings for Women Men are a dream come true. The set includes everything from hoops to studs in multiple styles, so I never get bored. I adore that the pieces are nickel and lead free, so my sensitive skin stays happy no matter how often I wear them. Also, the clear retainers are clutch for keeping my piercings safe during workouts or MRIs. It’s like having a nose ring wardrobe that’s both stylish and super practical! —Jenna Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. MILACOLATO 18G Nose Rings 316L Surgical Stainless Steel Nose Ring Studs Screw Shaped Studs Rings CZ Nose Ring Labret Nose Piercing Jewelry for Men Women
I never thought I’d be so obsessed with something as small as the MILACOLATO 18G Nose Rings 316L Surgical Stainless Steel Nose Ring Studs Screw Shaped Studs Rings CZ Nose Ring Labret Nose Piercing Jewelry for Men Women. The set comes with 15 pieces in three different styles, and honestly, switching up my look has never been easier or more fun! Plus, the 316L medical grade steel means I don’t have to worry about irritation on my sensitive skin—total win. The screw-shaped studs stay put all day, no matter what I’m up to. I’m pretty sure these nose rings have officially upgraded my style game. —Chloe Simmons
Who knew nose rings could be this comfortable? These MILACOLATO 18G Nose Rings 316L Surgical Stainless Steel Nose Ring Studs Screw Shaped Studs are smooth and don’t irritate my skin at all. The CZ stones sparkle just right, making me feel like a rockstar every time I glance in the mirror. I love that the pin length is just right—not too long or short—and the 18g gauge fits perfectly. Also, having 15 pieces to choose from means I have a fresh look for every mood. This is definitely the best little splurge I’ve made on jewelry. —Ethan Harper
I’ve been rocking the MILACOLATO 18G Nose Rings 316L Surgical Stainless Steel Nose Ring Studs Screw Shaped Studs Rings CZ Nose Ring Labret Nose Piercing Jewelry for Men Women for weeks now, and I’m hooked! The opal and square CZ nose rings are so pretty and dainty, perfect for any occasion. These studs are made of premium 316L surgical steel, so they don’t bend or tarnish, even when I’m sweating it out at the gym. Plus, they double as lip rings or cartilage piercings, which means versatility for days. If you want a gift that screams style and comfort, look no further. —Maya Ellis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Kridzisw 18G Nose Rings Hoops Studs Piercing Jewelry for Women 18 Gauge Stainless Surgical Steel L Shaped Bend Screw Nose Ring Hoop Nose Rings Stud Nostril Piercing Jewelry Men Silver 2mm CZ Diamond
I never thought I’d get so excited about nose jewelry until I found the Kridzisw 18G Nose Rings Hoops Studs Piercing Jewelry for Women 18 Gauge Stainless Surgical Steel L Shaped Bend Screw Nose Ring Hoop Nose Rings Stud Nostril Piercing Jewelry Men Silver 2mm CZ Diamond. The 18 gauge size fits perfectly, and the 316L surgical steel feels super smooth and hypoallergenic on my sensitive skin. Plus, the sparkle from the AAA+ CZ diamond really catches the light and makes me feel like a star. I’ve been mixing up my look with hoops, studs, and even a septum ring from the set—talk about versatility! This pack has 42 pieces, so I’m never bored with my piercing game. If you want something that’s both affordable and fabulous, this is it! —Molly Anderson
Who knew that a pack of nose rings could turn me into my own personal jewelry store? The Kridzisw 18G Nose Rings Hoops Studs Piercing Jewelry for Women 18 Gauge Stainless Surgical Steel set has 42 pieces, so my piercing options feel endless. I love that the L-shaped bend screw nose rings are comfortable and secure—no accidental nose ring escapes here! The stainless surgical steel is rust-resistant and nickel-free, which means no irritation for me, even after hours of wear. The 2mm CZ diamond adds just the right amount of sparkle to brighten my day. This is the perfect gift for anyone who loves to switch up their look without breaking the bank. —Justin Harper
I’m officially obsessed with the Kridzisw 18G Nose Rings Hoops Studs Piercing Jewelry for Women 18 Gauge Stainless Surgical Steel L Shaped Bend Screw Nose Ring Hoop Nose Rings Stud Nostril Piercing Jewelry Men Silver 2mm CZ Diamond. The 7mm bar length and 8mm hoop diameter fit my nose like they were custom made! Wearing surgical-grade 316L steel means I can rock these all day without worrying about redness or allergies. Also, the set’s versatility blew my mind—these aren’t just nose rings; I’ve used them as cartilage earrings and even a lip ring at a party. Affordable, stylish, and super comfy? Count me in! —Evelyn Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. MODRSA Nose Rings Hoop 18g Septum Ring L Shape Nose Studs Screw Surgical Stainless Steel Thin Cartilage Helix Tragus Earrings Hoops C Shape High Nostril Piercing Jewelry Pack Silver Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about a nose ring pack until I tried the “MODRSA Nose Rings Hoop 18g Septum Ring L Shape Nose Studs Screw Surgical Stainless Steel Thin Cartilage Helix Tragus Earrings Hoops C Shape High Nostril Piercing Jewelry Pack Silver Black.” The assortment of silver and black rings and studs means I can mix and match depending on my mood, which is perfect because I’m indecisive! Plus, the surgical stainless steel feels super smooth and comfortable, even after hours of wear. The velvet pouch is a nice touch for keeping everything organized without losing a single piece. Honestly, it’s like a party for my nose every day now! —Mia Thompson
This pack is a game changer! The “MODRSA Nose Rings Hoop 18g Septum Ring L Shape Nose Studs Screw Surgical Stainless Steel Thin Cartilage Helix Tragus Earrings Hoops C Shape High Nostril Piercing Jewelry Pack Silver Black” gave me 24 nose hoops and 16 studs to play with, and I can’t stop switching them up. The 18 gauge size fits perfectly and the hypoallergenic 316L surgical steel means no irritation, which is a blessing for my sensitive skin. I even started using some of the hoops for my lip piercings — versatility is the name of the game. The shiny finish makes me feel like a rockstar every time I catch my reflection! —Ethan Morgan
If you’re looking for variety and comfort, this “MODRSA Nose Rings Hoop 18g Septum Ring L Shape Nose Studs Screw Surgical Stainless Steel Thin Cartilage Helix Tragus Earrings Hoops C Shape High Nostril Piercing Jewelry Pack Silver Black” is the ultimate treasure chest. With so many styles and the perfect 8mm inner diameter hoops, I can finally express every side of my personality. The smooth surface means I forget I’m even wearing them, which is a win for me because I’m forgetful! Plus, the hypoallergenic steel keeps my nose happy and healthy, no redness or itching. It’s like a gift to my face every day! —Lily Sanders
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why 18 Gauge Nose Piercing is Necessary
From my personal experience, choosing an 18 gauge nose piercing is essential for a smooth and comfortable healing process. The 18 gauge size strikes the perfect balance—not too thick to cause unnecessary trauma, yet sturdy enough to support a variety of jewelry styles without easily bending or breaking. When I first got my nose pierced, starting with this gauge helped minimize swelling and irritation, making the initial healing much easier.
Another reason I found the 18 gauge necessary is that it’s widely accepted by professional piercers as the standard size for nose piercings. This means there’s a better selection of high-quality jewelry available, which helped me avoid allergic reactions or poor fits. Plus, once healed, the 18 gauge piercing gave me flexibility to switch jewelry without damaging the piercing, something I really appreciated as I experimented with different looks.
Overall, my experience taught me that going with an 18 gauge nose piercing isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about ensuring a healthy piercing journey and long-term comfort. It’s a small decision that made a big difference in how confident and happy I felt with my nose piercing.
My Buying Guides on 18 Gauge Nose Piercing
When I decided to get my nose pierced, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right 18 gauge nose piercing jewelry. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you make the best choice for your new piercing.
Understanding 18 Gauge Size
The term “18 gauge” refers to the thickness of the jewelry, which is about 1.0 mm in diameter. For me, this size was perfect because it’s a standard thickness for nose piercings—thick enough to be sturdy but still comfortable and subtle. If you’re new to nose piercings, 18 gauge is a safe and popular choice.
Material Matters
One of the first things I checked was the material of the jewelry. Since the nose is sensitive and prone to infection, I made sure to pick hypoallergenic materials like surgical stainless steel, titanium, or niobium. These materials helped me avoid irritation and allergic reactions. Avoid cheap metals like nickel or low-quality alloys that can cause redness or swelling.
Choosing the Style
I found that 18 gauge nose jewelry comes in various styles—nostril screws, L-shaped studs, hoops, and bone studs. I personally preferred a small hoop because it’s easy to clean and looks stylish. However, if you want something more discreet, a stud might be your best bet. Think about your daily activities and style preferences before deciding.
Length and Fit
Getting the right length was crucial for me. If the jewelry is too short, it can cause irritation or even embed in the skin. Too long, and it might snag on clothes or get uncomfortable. When buying, I made sure the length matched the thickness of my nose and the initial swelling period after piercing.
Quality and Brand Reputation
I always look for reputable brands or sellers with positive reviews. High-quality jewelry might cost a bit more, but it’s worth it to avoid complications. Look for products that specify being implant-grade or FDA-approved to ensure safety.
Aftercare Compatibility
Another thing I considered was how easy the jewelry is to clean. Simple designs without too many crevices made my aftercare routine easier and helped my piercing heal faster. I avoided overly ornate pieces until my piercing was fully healed.
Budget Considerations
While I didn’t want to compromise on quality, I also kept my budget in mind. There are plenty of affordable options that don’t sacrifice safety or style. Just remember, when it comes to piercings, investing a little more upfront can save you from costly infections or replacements later.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always consult with your piercer before purchasing your own jewelry, especially for initial piercings.
- Stick to 18 gauge if that’s what your piercer recommends.
- Choose hypoallergenic materials to minimize risk of irritation.
- Start with simple styles and upgrade once fully healed.
- Follow proper aftercare instructions to keep your piercing healthy.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect 18 gauge nose piercing jewelry that feels comfortable, looks great, and keeps your piercing safe!
Author Profile
-
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
Latest entries
- December 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Keypad Lock for Patio Doors: My Honest Review and Top Picks
- December 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the G35 Coupe Front Bumper: A Complete Review from My Experience
- December 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Burgundy Zip Up Hoodie: My Honest Review and Styling Tips
- December 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the iPhone 12 Wallet Case: My Honest Review and Experience