Studs at SkinKandy
Studs are one of the most versatile jewellery styles in piercing, designed to sit flush against the skin for a clean, low-profile look. SkinKandy's stud collection covers options for ears, nose and body piercings in Surgical Steel, Titanium and 14k Gold. Whether you're wearing a simple lobe stud, a decorative flatback in your helix or a nose stud in your nostril, you'll find pieces here to suit fresh and healed piercings across multiple placements.
What types of studs does SkinKandy carry?
We stock several stud styles to suit different piercings. Traditional butterfly-back studs work well for lobe piercings in 18G and 20G. For cartilage placements like the helix, tragus and conch, flatback studs are the recommended choice as they sit comfortably against the skin without a protruding backing. We also carry nose studs in L-bend and twist styles for nostril piercings. Each style is designed with the specific placement in mind, so choosing the right type matters for both comfort and healing.
Can I wear studs in a fresh piercing?
Yes, studs are one of the most common jewellery choices for fresh piercings. Your piercing specialist will fit you with the correct gauge and length for your placement, typically in implant grade Titanium or Surgical Steel. For cartilage piercings, flatbacks are preferred over butterfly-back studs because the flat disc sits smoothly against the skin and won't catch on hair or clothing. Do not remove your jewellery during the healing phase, as the piercing can close and reinsertion risks irritation.
What gauge and length do I need?
Gauge and length depend on your piercing placement. Lobe studs are typically 18G or 20G with varying post lengths. Cartilage flatbacks sit at 16G with 6mm or 8mm posts. Nose studs are usually 18G or 20G. If you're not sure what you were pierced with, check with your piercing specialist or measure your current jewellery before ordering. Getting the right fit is important for comfort and healing.
Which stud material is best for sensitive skin?
Titanium and Gold are the best options if you have sensitive skin or a nickel allergy. Both are hypoallergenic and won't react with your skin during healing or everyday wear. Surgical Steel is a durable, affordable option that works well for most people, though it does contain trace nickel so it's not ideal if you're prone to reactions. Avoid plated or mystery metal studs, particularly in healing piercings.
How do I look after my studs?
For fresh piercings, clean twice daily with saline solution and follow your piercing specialist's aftercare advice. Our post-piercing aftercare guide covers the full routine. For healed piercings, a quick wipe with warm soapy water keeps your studs looking fresh. Store spare pieces somewhere clean and dry to prevent tarnishing, and swap them out regularly if you're rotating between styles.
Book a piercing at SkinKandy
Looking for studs that fit your piercing perfectly? Book a piercing at SkinKandy and our piercing specialists will help you find the right style, gauge and material for your placement.
