How far is too far? That is a question that really can’t be answered. When it comes to body modification and stretching your piercing every person is different. Before you decide to stretch your piercing you should consult a professional piercer if you have any questions or concerns before stretching. The stretching should be done with tapers. Many companies sell tapering kits to help those that wish to stretch their piercings. Taper kits usually come in a variety of sizes that you gradually move in to as your piercing heals. You should be starting out with a flat taper with a concave back, do not use single flare, or double flare jewelry when stretching. During the stretching process it is recommended to use surgical steel, solid titanium, or glass. Organic and acrylic items are not recommended until after your stretched piercing has healed completely.
When stretching your piercing you have to make sure to take care of it as if it were a new piercing. Warm sea salt soaks are very necessary during this process. Keeping the area clean, and washing it at least twice a day. Stretching your piercing can take some time therefore you are going to need a lot of patience to avoid having a blow out. A blow out occurs when the stretching process is rushed and the ear literally blows out, it splits and typically has to be sewn back together. When you are placing the next gauge size up be sure to use some sort of lubricant. Many recommend jojoba oil, vitamin e oil or emu oil use the oil to help slow guide the next gauge taper into your piercing, using this method can help reduce the chance of a blow out. Whatever piercing you decide to stretch, make sure it is something that you do not mind having stretched permanently and remember that it’s going to take time and patience to properly achieve a nicely stretched piercing. Keep in mind that every “body” is different and your stretching experience maybe faster or slower than others, most importantly is that it is safe and healthy.
