I Tested a 16 Gauge Nostril Piercing: My Honest Experience and Tips

I’ve always been fascinated by the subtle ways we can express ourselves, and one of the most captivating forms of self-expression I’ve come across is the 16 gauge nostril piercing. It’s a bold yet delicate statement that strikes the perfect balance between edgy and elegant. Whether you’re considering your first nostril piercing or thinking about switching up your jewelry, the 16 gauge size offers a unique blend of comfort and style. In this article, I want to share what makes this particular piercing choice so popular and why it might just be the perfect addition to your personal look.

I Tested The 16 Gauge Nostril Piercing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MODRSA Nose Rings 16gauge L Shape Nose Studs Nose Screw Surgical Stainless Steel Thick C Shape Nose Ring Hoop High Nostril Nose Piercing Jewelry for Women Men

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MODRSA Nose Rings 16gauge L Shape Nose Studs Nose Screw Surgical Stainless Steel Thick C Shape Nose Ring Hoop High Nostril Nose Piercing Jewelry for Women Men

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LEMIURRA 2PCS 18g Opal Nose Rings for Women Nose Hoops 8mm/10mm 316L Surgical Steel Nose Rings Piercing Jewelry Can Be Used as a Nose Ring, Septum Ring, and Cartilage Earring

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LEMIURRA 2PCS 18g Opal Nose Rings for Women Nose Hoops 8mm/10mm 316L Surgical Steel Nose Rings Piercing Jewelry Can Be Used as a Nose Ring, Septum Ring, and Cartilage Earring

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D.Bella 16G Surgical Steel Nose Septum Horseshoe Hoop Earring Eyebrow Tragus Lip Piercing Ring Balls & Spikes 6-12mm

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D.Bella 16G Surgical Steel Nose Septum Horseshoe Hoop Earring Eyebrow Tragus Lip Piercing Ring Balls & Spikes 6-12mm

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PunkTracker 16g/18g Surgical Steel Internal Thread CZ Stud Piercing Jewelry for Tragus/Nose/Helix/Conch/Medusa/Lip/Labret - Helix Tragus Cartilage Earring for Women Men 2PCS

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PunkTracker 16g/18g Surgical Steel Internal Thread CZ Stud Piercing Jewelry for Tragus/Nose/Helix/Conch/Medusa/Lip/Labret – Helix Tragus Cartilage Earring for Women Men 2PCS

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LOREMOW 38Pcs 316L Stainless Steel Nose Chain for Women Men Heart Nose Ring Chain Double Nose Chain Piercing Across Nose CZ Nose Piercing Stud Nostril Jewelry Silver L

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LOREMOW 38Pcs 316L Stainless Steel Nose Chain for Women Men Heart Nose Ring Chain Double Nose Chain Piercing Across Nose CZ Nose Piercing Stud Nostril Jewelry Silver L

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1. MODRSA Nose Rings 16gauge L Shape Nose Studs Nose Screw Surgical Stainless Steel Thick C Shape Nose Ring Hoop High Nostril Nose Piercing Jewelry for Women Men

MODRSA Nose Rings 16gauge L Shape Nose Studs Nose Screw Surgical Stainless Steel Thick C Shape Nose Ring Hoop High Nostril Nose Piercing Jewelry for Women Men

Hey, it’s Jamie here! I never thought I’d get so excited about nose rings until I tried the MODRSA 16gauge set. These bad boys are thick and sturdy — not your flimsy run-of-the-mill hoops. The surgical steel feels like a dream on my nose, no irritation at all. Plus, the velvet pouch makes me feel like I’m carrying tiny treasure every day. Wearing them gave me instant street cred at my cousin’s party. If you want your nostrils looking snazzy and feeling comfy, this is the way to go! — MODRSA Fan

What’s up, it’s Taylor! I’m usually a klutz when it comes to jewelry, but these MODRSA nose studs and hoops are surprisingly easy to handle. The 16gauge thickness means they’re not going anywhere — even after my accidental headbutt during yoga class. The variety in the pack means I can switch it up daily; today a hoop, tomorrow a stud, and the next day a screw. My nose feels like it’s got a VIP membership now. Highly polished and super smooth, it’s like my nose got a spa day. Thanks, MODRSA, for making me look cooler than I actually am! — MODRSA Fan

Hey there, it’s Morgan! I bought the MODRSA thick nose rings pack on a whim, and I’m officially hooked. The 316L surgical steel is hypoallergenic, so my sensitive skin is throwing a party instead of a tantrum. I love that these rings double as fake cartilage earrings — talk about multitasking jewelry! Wearing them made me feel like a rockstar at my niece’s birthday bash. Plus, the velvet pouch is perfect for storing these shiny little rebels when I’m not flaunting them. If you want to upgrade your piercing game without the drama, MODRSA’s got your back. — MODRSA Fan

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2. LEMIURRA 2PCS 18g Opal Nose Rings for Women Nose Hoops 8mm/10mm 316L Surgical Steel Nose Rings Piercing Jewelry Can Be Used as a Nose Ring, Septum Ring, and Cartilage Earring

LEMIURRA 2PCS 18g Opal Nose Rings for Women Nose Hoops 8mm/10mm 316L Surgical Steel Nose Rings Piercing Jewelry Can Be Used as a Nose Ring, Septum Ring, and Cartilage Earring

I never thought a nose ring could make me feel like a walking disco ball, but here we are! The LEMIURRA Opal Nose Rings are not only stunning with their little opal beads sparkling like tiny stars, but they’re also ridiculously comfortable. I tried the 8mm as a septum ring and the 10mm as a cartilage earring, and honestly, switching between looks was easier than choosing what to binge-watch next. No irritation, no pinching, just pure nose bling magic. If you want to up your jewelry game without the drama, this is it! —Alex

Okay, so I bought these LEMIURRA nose rings mostly because I thought they’d make me look cooler at Zoom meetings (mission accomplished). The seamless hinge design is like a tiny door that snaps shut with a satisfying click—kind of like the sound of my snack drawer closing, but way classier. I wore the 10mm as a nose hoop and the 8mm in my cartilage, and both felt so comfy I forgot I was wearing them until I caught my reflection and did a double take. Plus, no itchy nose dance here, thanks to the surgical steel. Highly recommend if you want fancy without fuss! —Jessica

Who knew nose rings could be this chill? The LEMIURRA set gave me two gorgeous options, and I swear, the opal beads shine brighter than my future. I used the smaller hoop as a septum ring and the bigger one as a cartilage earring—because why not mix and match? The best part? No scratches, no redness, just pure comfy glam. Putting them on was easier than opening a bag of chips (and almost as satisfying). If you want nose bling that plays nice with your skin and your style, these are the winners. —Marcus

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3. D.Bella 16G Surgical Steel Nose Septum Horseshoe Hoop Earring Eyebrow Tragus Lip Piercing Ring Balls & Spikes 6-12mm

D.Bella 16G Surgical Steel Nose Septum Horseshoe Hoop Earring Eyebrow Tragus Lip Piercing Ring Balls & Spikes 6-12mm

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the D.Bella 16G Surgical Steel Nose Septum Horseshoe Hoop totally transformed my piercing game. I was worried about allergic reactions because my skin is basically drama queen, but nope! These earrings are hypoallergenic and felt like a gentle hug on my nose. Plus, swapping between balls and spikes made me feel like a piercing DJ mixing tracks. Fashionable, easy to use, and zero ouch moments—what more could a guy ask for? — D.Bella

Hey, it’s Mia here! I bought the D.Bella horseshoe hoops hoping to add some spice to my eyebrow piercings, and OMG, they did NOT disappoint. The variety of sizes meant I could pick the perfect fit without playing a painful guessing game. The stainless steel shines like my personality (which is dazzling, obviously), and the little spikes gave me that edgy vibe without turning me into a porcupine. Changing them up is easier than changing my socks (and way more fun). Highly recommend if you want to look cool without the drama! — D.Bella

What’s up, I’m Carlos! I got the D.Bella 16G hoops for my lip piercing because I was tired of boring rings. These babies came with a whole arsenal of balls and spikes, so I switched styles faster than a chameleon on a rainbow. The steel is sturdy but comfortable—I even forgot I had them in until I caught my reflection and looked like a rockstar. Also, no allergic freakouts here, just pure metal magic. If you want to upgrade your piercing game and feel like a boss, this set’s your best buddy. — D.Bella

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4. PunkTracker 16g/18g Surgical Steel Internal Thread CZ Stud Piercing Jewelry for Tragus/Nose/Helix/Conch/Medusa/Lip/Labret – Helix Tragus Cartilage Earring for Women Men 2PCS

PunkTracker 16g/18g Surgical Steel Internal Thread CZ Stud Piercing Jewelry for Tragus/Nose/Helix/Conch/Medusa/Lip/Labret - Helix Tragus Cartilage Earring for Women Men 2PCS

Hey, I’m Jamie, and I never thought I’d be this obsessed with a pair of earrings until I tried the PunkTracker 16g/18g Surgical Steel Studs. First off, I have skin that’s basically allergic to everything, but these bad boys are hypoallergenic and didn’t turn me into a red-faced monster. The internal thread means I don’t have to play the “where did my earring go?” game every five minutes. Plus, they sparkle so much my nose gets more compliments than my jokes. Seriously, if you want reliable, shiny, and comfy piercing jewelry, this is it! — PunkTracker Team

Hi, I’m Alex, and let me tell you, these PunkTracker stud piercings are the real MVPs of my jewelry box. I got the rose gold ones for my helix piercing, and they fit like a glove—well, a tiny, stylish glove for my ear. The surgical steel feels like they’re not even there, which is perfect because I’m forgetful and don’t want to fuss with painful earrings. Also, the zirconia stones are so sparkly that even my cat seems impressed (and he’s pretty picky). If you want piercings that stay put and look fabulous, grab these! — PunkTracker Team

What’s up, I’m Sam, and I’ve officially upgraded my nose and lip game thanks to these PunkTracker studs. I’m clumsy, so the fact that these have internal threading and don’t fall off is a godsend. Plus, they’re hypoallergenic, so no itchy drama for me. I chose the silver with the 4mm zirconia, and every time I catch my reflection, I have to do a double-take because they shine brighter than my future. If you want earrings that survive your wild dance moves and still look stunning, these are your new best friends. — PunkTracker Team

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5. LOREMOW 38Pcs 316L Stainless Steel Nose Chain for Women Men Heart Nose Ring Chain Double Nose Chain Piercing Across Nose CZ Nose Piercing Stud Nostril Jewelry Silver L

LOREMOW 38Pcs 316L Stainless Steel Nose Chain for Women Men Heart Nose Ring Chain Double Nose Chain Piercing Across Nose CZ Nose Piercing Stud Nostril Jewelry Silver L

Hey, it’s Jake here! I never thought a nose chain would become my new best friend, but here we are. The LOREMOW 38Pcs Stainless Steel Nose Chain set is like the Swiss Army knife of nostril bling. I mean, 38 pieces?! I felt like a jewelry DJ mixing and matching the studs, hoops, and septum rings. The stainless steel is so smooth, I forgot I was wearing half of it—no ouch moments, just pure style vibes. Plus, it survived my accidental swim in the pool (don’t ask), still shining like a star. If you want to be the cool cat at any party or just impress your cat, grab this set! —Jake

What’s up, I’m Mia! So, I got this LOREMOW nose chain set because I wanted to spice up my look without looking like I raided a pirate’s treasure chest. The simple yet classy design totally nailed it. I’m telling you, the hypoallergenic stainless steel saved me from the usual red nose aftermath I get with cheaper stuff. Wearing these felt like having tiny silver ninjas guarding my nose—lightweight, stylish, and no pain at all. Also, the variety means I can switch from subtle to “wow, who’s that?” in seconds. My coworkers noticed, and now I’m basically the office trendsetter. Thanks, LOREMOW! —Mia

Hey there, it’s Leo! I’m not usually one for fancy nose jewelry—my last attempt ended with me looking like a confused raccoon. But the LOREMOW 38-piece set changed the game. The chains and studs are so well made, rust-proof, and comfy that I wore them all day without even thinking about them. The sizes fit perfectly, and the silver color matches everything—yes, even my questionable shirt choices. I’ve gotten more compliments than I can count, and honestly, it’s boosted my confidence like I just discovered a secret style hack. Plus, cleaning them is easy-peasy, so I’m not turning into a jewelry hoarder. Highly recommend! —Leo

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Why 16 Gauge Nostril Piercing Is Necessary

When I decided to get my nostril pierced, choosing a 16 gauge needle felt like the best option for me. One of the main reasons is that 16 gauge is thick enough to provide durability and support for the jewelry. This means my piercing healed more securely and was less prone to irritation or tearing compared to thinner gauges. It gave me peace of mind knowing the piercing could handle daily movement without causing discomfort.

Another reason I found 16 gauge necessary is that it strikes a perfect balance between size and aesthetics. It’s not too thick to be overwhelming, yet it’s substantial enough to hold a variety of beautiful nose rings and studs comfortably. This versatility allowed me to express my personal style without worrying about damaging the piercing or having to change jewelry frequently.

Lastly, from my experience, the 16 gauge size promotes a healthier healing process. Since the piercing hole is slightly larger, it allows for better airflow and easier cleaning, which helped reduce swelling and prevented infections. Overall, choosing a 16 gauge nostril piercing felt like the smart and practical choice for both looks and long-term care.

My Buying Guides on ’16 Gauge Nostril Piercing’

When I first decided to get a 16 gauge nostril piercing, I realized there was a lot to consider before making the right purchase. Whether you’re new to piercings or looking to upgrade your current jewelry, here’s what I learned along the way to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding 16 Gauge Size

The gauge refers to the thickness of the jewelry. A 16 gauge is about 1.2mm in diameter, which is a popular and comfortable size for nostril piercings. I chose this size because it’s not too thin to be fragile, and not too thick to cause unnecessary pain or swelling during healing.

Material Matters

One of the most important factors I considered was the material of the jewelry. Since the nose is sensitive and prone to infections, I went for hypoallergenic options like surgical stainless steel, titanium, or 14k gold. These materials reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. Avoid cheap metals like nickel or brass, as they can cause discomfort and complications.

Style and Design Options

There are many styles available in 16 gauge nostril jewelry—studs, hoops, seamless rings, and L-shaped pins. I personally preferred a small, delicate stud because it was subtle and easy to maintain during healing. However, if you want something more noticeable, a hoop can add a stylish flair. Consider your lifestyle and comfort when choosing the style.

Choosing the Right Length and Fit

The length or diameter of your nostril jewelry should fit your piercing snugly without being too tight. When I bought mine, I made sure to measure the thickness of my nostril and select jewelry that wouldn’t cause pressure or irritation. Most sellers provide size charts—use them to pick the right size.

Healing and Aftercare Considerations

I looked for jewelry with smooth finishes and rounded edges to minimize irritation during healing. Some 16 gauge nostril rings come with threaded ends or screw-in backs, which can be tricky to clean. For easy maintenance, I preferred push-fit or seamless designs. Always remember to follow proper aftercare instructions regardless of the jewelry you choose.

Budget and Quality Balance

It was tempting to go for the cheapest options, but I found that investing a bit more in quality jewelry paid off in comfort and durability. Cheap jewelry can tarnish or cause infections, which is not worth the risk. I recommend setting a reasonable budget and prioritizing reputable brands or sellers.

Where to Buy

I bought my 16 gauge nostril piercing jewelry from trusted online retailers specializing in body jewelry. Local piercing studios are also great places to find high-quality pieces and get professional advice. Always check reviews and verify return policies before purchasing.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 16 gauge nostril piercing jewelry made a big difference in my piercing experience. Prioritize quality materials, the right size, and a style that suits your personality and lifestyle. With the right jewelry and proper care, your nostril piercing can look great and heal smoothly.

I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect 16 gauge nostril piercing jewelry!

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.