What is the average gauge size for a labret piercing?

Question

I've recently had my lip pierced and, what with going back to school next week, I need a retainer. Thing is, I don't know what size gauge I'm going to need. Also, if I get a retainer with a gauge size too small, my piercing wont close up smaller too will it?

Answer 1

Mine was pierced at 16g, and is now 14g. Both are normal sizes.  Assuming you went to a professional piercer, you should just be able to call and find out. And yes, the hole would shrink around a smaller retainer.

Answer 2

Hi!  Generally, the "standard" for a labret or a monroe would be 12g.  Unless you asked your artist to pierce with something larger, I'd bet your current jewelry is 12g.  I've never seen a retainer that's smaller than 12g, but if you do get one that's 14g, it might allow your hole to shrink slightly, but not enough to make it impossible to get your 12g jewelry back in easily.  If you find you're having trouble getting either the retainer or the original jewelry back in, put a small amount of petroleum jelly on the jewelry.  It'll help lubricate the piercing and as it's non-toxic, it won't hurt you if you ingest a small amount.

I'd also suggest that you buy at least a half-dozen of the little o-rings that come with the retainers.  Those little buggers are impossible to find if you lose one.  Try to get a little plastic baggie... like a dime bag type baggie, to keep everything in.

Good luck!

Answer 3

usually 16g. and yes, if you put anything smaller in, it will close up to that size. =)

Answer 4

to start about 14, then most people use 16.

just compare the one you have in with one in the shop...or there on charts if you search google.

if you put a 16g in a 14g hole yes the hole will eventually shrink to 16g, and if you have only recently had the piercing you wont be able to put a retainer in it yet as plastic is dangerous for lip piercings (unless you get a quartz retainer), but yeah i don't advise plastic or bioplast stuff for a recent piercing.

Answer 5

I pierce labrets at 14ga unless the client asks for a different gauge.

The best way to find out is to go back to your piercer and ask. If your piercing is still fresh, you will need sterile jewelry so you need the piercer to change it for you. You will also need to get a quartz or pyrex retainer as opposed to acrylic. Your piercing studio (or a different one) will be able to fit you with a piece of jewelry that is the correct length and gauge.