What size hoop should you choose for a tragus piercing?

The day has finally arrived: your tragus piercing has healed. But you're unsure which hoop size to choose? Worried about ordering the wrong size?

We were in your shoes a few years ago. At Solstice, we've brought together as much information as possible to help you choose.

Close to the cheek, the tragus piercing has become a popular choice. More than a fashion accessory, it can express independence and beauty. We love wearing delicate hoops here, with a diameter suited to your anatomy.

Let's explore how to choose your tragus hoop.

Which hoop diameter should you choose?

Choosing the right hoop diameter is essential. You don't want jewellery that's too tight and puts pressure on the piercing or something so loose that it moves around too much. Think of your piercing jewellery like clothing: the fit matters. The wrong size can also feel uncomfortable.

A tragus hoop must suit your anatomy: a diameter of 6 mm may work, but it isn't a universal rule. The diameter and thickness must suit your existing piercing channel without compression: see the APP's criteria for initial piercing jewellery. This reference explains initial piercing requirements; Solstice catalogue jewellery is for healed piercings.

Before changing your jewellery, make sure your tragus piercing is fully healed. If you're unsure, ask your piercer to assess it before changing the jewellery.

Once healing is complete, you can consider replacing your initial jewellery with a more decorative design, such as a hoop. Gold, titanium or stainless steel may be options, but the material alone doesn't guarantee freedom from complications. Ask your piercer to check the jewellery's suitability.

Unsure how to insert a hoop? The method depends on its fastening. For a hinged hoop, open the movable section, gently guide it through your healed tragus piercing and close the hoop securely. Don't force the jewellery; ask your piercer for help if you're unsure.

Tragus jewellery with character

Subtle, distinctive and delicate, tragus jewellery can become part of your everyday style. This popular piercing sits close to the cheek, in a small flap of cartilage (rounded or triangular). It's the part you press when there's too much noise.

A tragus piercing has plenty of styling appeal and pairs easily with other jewellery. Its small size makes it a versatile choice that adds a real styling accent to your ear stack.

Several types of jewellery may be suitable, depending on your anatomy and healed piercing:

• Horseshoe: with or without ball ends
• Stud or barbell: straight or curved, with or without decorative stones
• Hoop: classic, heart-shaped, teardrop-shaped, crown-shaped…

Our advice: let your creativity lead. Try a delicate gold-tone hoop, a versatile piece that gives you more freedom when choosing jewellery for your other piercings.