Ear gauges, also known as flesh tunnels, are a popular form of body jewelry that have been around for centuries. They come in many different sizes and materials, ranging from small plastic plugs to large stainless steel rings. In this article, we’ll take a look at the history of ear gauges and how to choose the right size and material for your body jewelry needs.
History of Ear Gauging
Ear gauging has an ancient history—it was practiced by the Mayan civilization over 3,000 years ago! The practice was also popular among the Aztec culture, who believed that stretching their ears would bring them closer to their gods. Today, ear gauging is mainly seen as a fashion statement or form of self-expression.
Ear gauging has been around for centuries and was first used by ancient tribes as a rite of passage. Back then, the process was often done with stones or bones that were gradually inserted into the ear lobe over time. This method created permanent stretching of the ear lobes, which is why many tribal members were seen with large hanging earlobes. In modern times, it’s become more common to use metal plugs and tunnels instead of stones or bones because they provide a less painful and less permanent solution for stretching your ears.
Choosing The Right Size and Material
When it comes to choosing the right size and material for your ear gauge, there are several factors you need to consider. First and foremost, you should research the size of your piercing before buying an ear gauge. Your piercer will be able to tell you what size you need; they typically range from 1/8″ up to 2″. It’s important to buy an ear gauge that is slightly larger than your piercing so that it can expand without causing any discomfort or irritation.
The type of material used in an ear gauge is also important; different materials have different properties that can affect comfort levels and healing times. For instance, acrylic is lightweight and inexpensive but may cause irritation if worn for long periods of time. Steel is heavier but more durable, making it ideal for everyday wear. Titanium is hypoallergenic and ideal for sensitive skin types; however, it can be expensive compared to other materials such as glass or wood.
Finally, make sure that you clean your ear gauges regularly with a gentle soap or saline solution; this will help keep them free from bacteria and infection-causing germs. Also avoid wearing your ear gauge in areas where there may be dirt or dust as these particles can get trapped inside the tunnel and cause irritation or infection.
When shopping for an ear gauge make sure that you take into account all the factors mentioned above—size, material type, cleaning routine—to ensure a safe and comfortable experience with your new body jewelry item! With proper care and maintenance you should have no problems wearing your new piece of body jewelry confidently every day!