Bellybutton gauging?

So I don’t really need to be told that it was stupid because I know it was, I was just in a hurry and didn’t actually know there was a difference..but here’s my situation.

I didn’t actually know belly button rings had different gauges. Ever. It had never really been something I paid attention too. Everywhere I’d bought one from previously was either the same size, or I definitely wasn’t paying attention. But I went to Spencer’s to get a nose ring (which I know the gauges of) and they were having a buy one get one free sale so I quickly picked out a belly button ring. When I got home I noticed it was a 12g. I figured to just go for it because

• it was cute, and free

• I’ve had the piercing for 6 years so it’s definitely healed enough anyway.

• it might be the size I’ve had the whole time.

It wasn’t very easy to get in there, I figured it was because I’d been without one for a few weeks, but it’s never been that difficult before. Now it’s very itchy and irritated. The redness has went down a lot but it still kind of hurts. So what I’m wondering is, is it just bad metal? Is it causing a reaction? Or was it too big? And if it is too big is there any specific care I should do to it. I’ve been spraying H2Ocean on it because it makes it feel a little better.

Please don’t tell me that was dumb. I know it was careless but it happened. I just need some advice on what to do next.

530 views • 3 upvotes • 4 comments

COMMENT (4)

Em

Posted at
I actually work at Spencer’s! It’s likely just irritated because you stretched it improperly. So, it’s going through a healing process right now. Continue using the H2Ocean and really just follow the same healing guidelines you used when you first got the piercing until it stops hurting. Then, if you want to you can keep buying belly button rings at a 12g but 14g is the standard and you’ll get more of a selection at that gauge. But I highly recommend not going back and forth and just sticking to one gauge size. After all, it was free so it’s not a big loss. And all of the jewelry should have the gauge size listed on it so just keep an eye on that next time you go in or ask an employee!

A

A • Jul 27, 2019
It never bled or anything, I didn’t have to shove it through it just took some time to work it through. So should I leave it in or switch back to my old one? I honestly don’t wear them enough anymore to where I’m super worried about variety anymore. It’s just bikini season and I wanted something cute.😂

Em

Emily • Jul 27, 2019
Also, all of the jewelry we sell is surgical steel unless a different material is specified on the jewelry case. So the material is the best for healing piercings.

Me

Posted at
Im not sure the size was so different that you stretched it on your own? Maybe? Had you ever switched out the jewelry before?