Choosing the right jewellery for your piercing

Finding the perfect jewellery is just as important as choosing the piercing itself. At Cosmetics Plus, we offer a wide range of high-quality, skin-safe jewellery so you can start your piercing journey with confidence. Our standard jewellery is included with every piercing from $45, with the option to upgrade to premium styles in-store for an additional cost.


Whether you’re after something classic, cute, or bold, our team will help you choose the right piece for both comfort and healing. From first-time piercings to curated ear stacks, this guide will walk you through the jewellery types, materials, lengths, and styles you’ll see during your appointment - so you know exactly what to expect.

Image Jewellery Gauge Recommended Areas Pros Cons
Barbell 14g Scaffolding, Tongue, Nipple, Bridge, Conch, Helix, Lobe Stable, secure, great for swelling, ideal for straight piercings More visible ends, not suitable for curved anatomy
Barbell 16g Helix, Lobe, Conch Comfortable, versatile, good for cartilage Can rotate, may irritate some cartilage piercings
Labret Bar 14g Helix, Lobe, Conch, Lip, Labret Flat back reduces irritation, comfortable for sleeping, great for snug piercings Can sink if too short, disc can collect product buildup
Labret Bar 16g Helix, Lobe, Conch, Tragus, Lip, Sweet Kiss, Labret, Madonna Low-profile, excellent for long-term wear Too short = pressure; too long = movement & irritation
Micro Curved Bar 14g Eyebrow, Navel Fits natural curves of the body, reduces snagging Not suitable for straight piercings
Micro Curved Bar 16g Eyebrow, Cleopatra, Vertical Lip, Anti-Tragus, Horizontal Lobe, Snug, Daith, Rook Ideal for curved anatomy, secure Can rotate during healing, requires precise sizing
Horse Shoe (Circular Barbell) 14g Septum Easy to flip up, adjustable look More movement = longer healing
Horse Shoe (Circular Barbell) 16g Septum, Smiley, Daith Great for flexibility & styling Can catch on teeth (smiley), can rotate
Nose Stud 18g Nose Simple, minimal look, beginner-friendly Can loosen if not fitted correctly
Hinged Segment Ring 16g Nose, Helix, Septum Secure, smooth, hygienic, doesn’t rotate like ball rings Harder to change without tools
Hinged Segment Ring 18g Nose Comfortable, subtle look Needs correct sizing to avoid irritation
Curved Navel Bar 14g Navel Designed for belly curves, reduces pressure Can snag on clothing
Dermal Anchor 14g Dermal Unique placement options, looks sleek Higher risk of being knocked or rejected if not cared for properly

At Cosmetics Plus, you can upgrade your piercing jewellery in-store. Options may include:
✨ Titanium
✨ Implant-grade steel
✨ Gemstone, opal, and decorative tops
✨ Hinged rings for easier long-term wear
Upgrading is completely optional but recommended for sensitive skin or for a more aesthetic look.

When & How to Switch to New Jewellery Safely

Do NOT change your jewellery early - this is the most common cause of irritation bumps and prolonged healing.

General Rule of Thumb:

- Lobe: 6–8 weeks
- Cartilage: 3–6 months
- Navel: 6–9 months
- Lip / Oral: 6–8 weeks
- Eyebrow: 6–8 weeks
- Nose: 8–12 weeks
- Septum: 6–8 weeks


Dermal: Should only be changed or removed by a professional.
Healing times vary - your piercer will assess your specific piercing and advise you.

Safe Jewellery Switching Tips

1. Ensure the piercing is no longer tender, swollen, or secreting lymph.
2. Wash your hands thoroughly.
3. Clean the area gently before and after switching.
4. Choose high-quality jewellery only (titanium recommended).
5. If it hurts or feels tight - stop and visit a piercer.


For cartilage, first-time changes are safest done in-store to avoid trauma.

Do ✅ Don’t ❌

✔ Clean twice daily with saline spray
✔ Avoid touching or twisting the jewellery
✔ Keep hair and makeup away from the area
✔ Sleep on the opposite side for ear piercings
✔ Use a clean pillowcase & avoid pressure
✔ Expect normal healing signs (crusties, light swelling)

✖ Don’t remove jewellery early
✖ Don’t use alcohol, peroxide, or scented soaps
✖ Don’t swim for the first 2–3 weeks
✖ Don’t sleep directly on a fresh piercing
✖ Don’t change jewellery during irritation or flare-ups

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