Should you use a single flare or a double flare plug? Both of these will help you get the size you want, but they are designed for different periods of your stretching journey. A single flare plug is best for initial stretching. The flared end makes it easier to fit it through your piercing, and then the non-flared end can be used to hold it in place once inserted. It works by having a rubber o-ring that prevents the plug from slipping back out of the wearer’s ear. This type of plug is most commonly used by those who are still new to stretching and want their body to feel comfortable before increasing the size of their plugs. It also makes them safer than other kinds and lets you avoid hitting sensitive areas in your ear with the ball at the end of your plugs.
Let’s start with the basics
Plugs are a type of jewellery worn in stretched earlobes. It keeps them in shape, stops them from shrinking to their original size, and is an excellent form of self-expression. If you’re considering stretching your ears, you should familiarise yourself with the different plugs. The plugs’ variety allows everyone to find an accessory that suits them and will complement their lifestyle. Plus, wearing a plug is a great way to show off your newly stretched ears.
What actually are plug flares?
A flare is the term used for the outer edge of the plug (or tunnel). It is an edge on one or both sides of the plug cylinder and is larger in gauge size than the actual plug. They help keep the plug securely in place.
Depending on whether one or both sides are flared, you have single or double flare plugs to choose from.
Single Flares
Single flares are typically used with smaller gauges and don’t require special tools to install them. The flange comprises a single flat surface that widens out towards the back of the tunnel.
When to use a single flare plug
Single flare plugs are great for people who want the comfort and security of a plug that stays in place without needing any extra help. If you’re looking for a plug that will stay put without having to be taped or glued down, then this is the one for you. They’re also great if you want a simple look or just want to start out with something simple.
The biggest downside to using single flared plugs is that it can be hard to find ones that match your ear size exactly since they tend to come in only one size (they usually range from 2mm – 8mm). This means that finding a pair that fits well could take some trial and error—but once you find the right pair, these are going to be your go-to for years!
Double Flares
Double flares have a two-part flange design that wraps around either side of your piercing for extra support and security. This design allows you to stretch beyond your standard gauge size without worrying about losing your jewellery!
When to use a double flare plug
When you’re ready to take your stretched ears to the next level, it’s time to move from single flare plugs to double flare plugs. Double flare plugs are a great option if you have stretched your ears and want to wear earrings that aren’t too big. They are also called “double flared” plugs because the piece that goes into your ear starts out small, and then flares out into a larger size. It creates a more secure hold on your earlobe than standard single flare plugs do.
The best thing about double flare plugs is that they’ll stay in place even if you’re moving around a lot or doing yoga or jogging. They hold tight without slipping out of place like smaller single flare plugs do—even if you’re doing something that makes you sweat!
How to easily insert your plug or tunnel
Losing your earrings and having to change them out is never fun. But if you’re new to stretching your ears or are just having some trouble inserting new jewellery, these guidelines will help you safely change your jewellery. Inserting plugs into stretched ears is a delicate process. If you want to avoid the pain and hassle of stretching your own ears, you can buy pre-stretched earrings. However, if you want to go through the process of inserting plugs into stretched ears yourself, then read on!
- First, you need to make sure that your plugs are clean and free from dirt or debris. If they’re not, use an alcohol-based solution to clean them before inserting them into your stretched ears.
- Next, find the correct size plug for your ear holes. If you don’t have any experience stretching your ears, then ask a friend or family member who has been through it before for help.
- Once you’ve found a pair of plugs that are the right size for your stretched ears, put one end in each earring hole—be careful not to push too hard! You should feel some resistance at first but as long as it doesn’t hurt too much then keep going until both ends are through completely.
- Once this happens, gently pull on both ends until there’s no more resistance (this will stretch out your piercing hole so it can fit over the plug itself). Next, bend.
Stretched ear piercing aftercare
After you’ve stretched your ear piercings, you’ll need to take special care of them. Here are some tips for how to do that:
- Don’t sleep on your stomach or side. Sleeping on your stomach or side can cause your ears to swell and become more inflamed.
- Keep your ears clean. Use a gentle soap and warm water, but avoid using anything with alcohol in it, since alcohol will dry out the skin and cause irritation.
- Use saline solution to keep the piercings from drying out, and apply petroleum jelly or Neosporin on them once or twice a day. This will help keep the skin soft and healthy.
Both single flared and double flared plugs are very comfortable compared to other types of jewellery. Both have the same end result but give different comfort levels. In the long run, comfort is what really matters when it comes to jewellery.