16g piercing needle

Types of 16g piercing needles

Necklaces, rings, and studs are no longer the only means of self-expression. Body piercings have become an art form, and needles are the tools for this craft. Needles are the preferred method for professional piercers because they are more precise and less likely to cause injury to the tissue. Among the various gauges, the 16g piercing needle is popular for its versatility and ease of use. It's used for a variety of different piercings, including:

• Nose Piercings: Gauge size 18 to 20, the nostril and septum usually use a 16g needle to allow for the use of slightly thicker jewelry.
• Eyebrow Piercings: Gauge size 16 to 18, the eyebrow is often pierced with a 16g needle to ensure the use of more substantial, stylish jewelry.
• Oral Piercings: Gauge size 16 to 20, the lip and tongue can be pierced with a 16g needle, facilitating the use of eye-catching, thicker jewelry.
• Industrial Piercings: Gauge size 16 to 20, combining two separate ear cartilage piercings into one long bar, industrial piercings often use 16g needles.
• Helix Piercings: Gauge size 16 to 20, the upper ear helix piercing sometimes uses a 16g needle to accommodate larger, more distinct jewelry.
• Multiple Lobe Piercings: Gauge size 16 to 20, multiple piercings in the earlobe, often done in a sequence, may use a 16g needle for uniformity.

In conclusion, the 16g needle is a versatile tool, easily accommodating a wide range of jewelry styles while minimizing tissue damage.

How to choose 16g piercing needles

When selecting 16g piercing needles in bulk, it is essential to consider the material, type, size, and quantity to order.

• Material

  16g piercing needles are made from stainless steel, titanium, or surgical steel. Stainless steel needles are the most common and are often used for single-use cases. They are the best option for those on a budget. Titanium needles are more durable and resistant to rusting and corrosion. They are non-allergic and can be autoclaved for multiple uses. Surgical steel needles are polished with a non-reactive finish. They are ideal for people with sensitive skin.

• Type

  The type of needle will depend on the kind of piercing that needs to be done. Some needles are specifically made for cartilage piercing, such as ear and nose piercings. There are also needles used for navel, brow, and labia piercings. These needles are designed to create holes of different sizes. They have a hollow shaft that makes it easy to insert the jewelry after the piercing.

• Size

  Buyers should be aware of the length and gauge of the needle. The gauge measures the thickness of the needle, and the length refers to how long the needle will travel before reaching the targeted area. The 16g gauge is approximately 1.2 mm and is mostly used for piercing and inserting rings or studs. The length of the 16g piercing needle varies depending on the manufacturer. Longer needles are suitable for deep piercings.

• Quantity

  16g piercing needles are sold in bulk or as single units. Many wholesalers package the needles in sets depending on the buyers' needs. Needles that come in sterile packaging are ideal for single-use. On the other hand, autoclave-able needles can be used multiple times by piercing professionals.

How to use, install, and product safety

Using and installing a 16g piercing needle requires proper knowledge to ensure safety and a successful piercing. Here is the process of using and installing a 16g piercing needle:

• Preparation

  Gather all the necessary supplies for the piercing, including a 16g needle, antiseptic solution, gloves, forceps, and aftercare products. Ensure the working area is clean and well-lit for the procedure.

• Sanitize the area

  Use an antiseptic solution to clean the area where the piercing will be made. This helps remove bacteria and prevent infection. Put on disposable gloves to maintain hygiene during the procedure.

• Mark the piercing spot

  Carefully, use a marker to mark the desired location for the piercing. Ensure the spot is appropriately positioned and aligned to achieve a neat and professional-looking piercing. Avoid piercing in a place that doesn't conform to the aesthetic taste of the user.

• Apply antiseptic and numb the area

  Apply antiseptic solution to the marked area to clean it thoroughly. If desired, use a numbing cream or spray to numb the spot, making the procedure more comfortable. Allow the numbing agent to take effect before proceeding.

• Use forceps to hold the tissue

  Gently grasp the tissue around the piercing site with forceps. This provides stability and ensures accurate needle insertion. Avoid pinching the skin too tightly, as it may cause unnecessary pain or discomfort.

• Needle insertion

  Remove the protective cap from the needle and gently insert it into the marked spot. Use even pressure and avoid forcing the needle through thick tissue. Once the needle passes through the tissue, quickly replace it with a 16g jewelry piece.

• Aftercare

  Remove gloves and clean the piercing area with antiseptic solution. Apply a suitable healing product, such as a saline solution spray or a dedicated piercing aftercare ointment. Provide detailed aftercare instructions, including cleaning routine and avoiding irritants, to ensure proper healing of the piercing

Product Safety

Product safety is vital to ensure a safe and successful piercing. Here are some essential tips for the product's safety:

• Hygiene

  Ensure that the working area, hands, and piercing equipment are all clean. This helps to prevent any chances of infection and other complications associated with piercing.

• Sterility

  Use a sterile needle piercing set to ensure that the piercing needle is free from any germs. This prevents the transfer of bacteria into the body during the procedure, reducing the risk of infection. Do not try to sterilize the needle at home, as it may not be properly sterilized.

• Technique

  Use the proper technique when inserting the needle into the tissue. Do not apply excessive force, as it may cause unnecessary pain and trauma. Ensure the needle moves smoothly to reduce tissue damage and improve the piercing's comfort and healing.

• Aftercare

  Follow the appropriate aftercare instructions to prevent infection and promote healing. Avoid touching, twisting, or removing jewelry from the newly pierced site. Clean the area as directed. Avoid irritants such as swimming pools, lakes, and other chemicals until the piercing heals completely.

Functions, features, and design of 16g piercing needles

Functions

• Painless Piercing: Using a needle for piercing is generally considered less painful than piercing guns, which can cause more pressure and discomfort. The sharpness of the needle allows it to cut through tissue quickly, creating a less painful experience for the piercing.
• Professional Piercing: 16g needles are often used by professional piercers to create accurately positioned and minimally invasive holes in the body for various kinds of jewelry.
• Biocompatibility: Surgical stainless steel is non-reactive with body tissues and fluids, significantly reducing the risk of infections or allergic reactions.

Features

• Gauge Size: The "g" in 16g refers to the gauge or thickness of the needle. A 16g needle has a diameter of approximately 1.2 mm, which is considered a standard size for various piercings, including earlobes, cartilage, and facial piercings.
• Sharpness: Piercing needles are exceptionally sharp, allowing them to create a clean hole in the tissue. This sharpness minimizes the damage to the surrounding tissues and reduces the risk of complications during the healing process.
• Material: 16g piercing needles are usually made from surgical stainless steel, which is strong, durable, and resistant to rust and corrosion. Some needles may have additional coatings or finishes to enhance their biocompatibility and reduce friction during the piercing process.
• Length: The length of the needle can vary, and it is generally between 38 mm and 50 mm. The length depends on the piercing location and the thickness of the tissue to be pierced.
• Packaging: 16g piercing needles are typically packaged in sterile, sealed packaging to ensure they are free from contaminants before use. The packaging is designed to maintain the sterility of the needle until it is opened for the piercing procedure.

Design

• Graduation Markings: Some piercing needles, especially those used in professional settings, may have graduation markings along the shaft. These markings help piercers gauge the depth of insertion, ensuring consistent piercing depth.
• Needle Tip Design: The design of the needle tip can vary slightly based on the type of piercing it is intended for. Some needle tips may have a tapered or pointed design to facilitate piercing through harder tissues, such as cartilage.
• Hub or Handle: The hub or handle of the needle is attached to the piercing gun or instrument, providing a secure connection. It may have textured or grip-enhancing features to ensure stability during the piercing process.

Q&A

Q1. Are 16g needles big?

A1. The gauge size of a needle indicates its thickness. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the needle will be. On the contrary, a higher number means a slimmer needle. A 16g needle is considered relatively thick.

Q2. What does a 16g needle mean?

A2. A 16g piercing needle is 1.2 mm (or 16g) in diameter. The needle's diameter is 1.2 mm, making it suitable for creating larger holes in the body for thicker jewelry.

Q3. What is a 16g piercing?

A3. A 16g piercing refers to the gauge size of piercing needles and jewelry. It is commonly used for helix, conch, and other cartilage piercings.

Q4. What is the length of a 16g needle?

A4. The length of the 16g piercing needle varies depending on the desired piercing. The most piercing needle length is 12mm.

Q5. Can 16g be used for 18g jewelry?

A5. Yes. 16g can accommodate 18g jewelry since 16g has a larger diameter than 18g.