The Guide

There is no scientific evidence for it. Some people say they have fewer headaches, but research shows no clear effect. If you have migraines, ask your doctor for advice.

Usually six to twelve months, sometimes longer. Cartilage heals more slowly than your lobe. Your piercer will tell you when it's safe to switch to a gold piercing.

Often 8 mm, because the cartilage in your conch is thicker. If your conch isn't very thick, 6.5 mm fits. Measure a piercing you already wear comfortably, or ask your piercer.

Slide it onto the thinnest part of your ear rim, just above your lobe. Then gently ease it to where you want it. To take it off, do the same in reverse, without pulling.

For every day, 12 to 18 mm is the safe choice: visible, but never in the way. Choose 8 to 10 mm for a second hole. From 25 mm, you're wearing a statement.

6.5 mm is the standard and fits most ears. Choose 5 mm if it needs to sit close to your ear, as in a tragus, and 8 mm for thicker cartilage, like a conch. Or measure a piercing you already wear comfortably.

A huggie is a small hoop that hugs your earlobe, usually 10 to 13 mm. A hoop is bigger, from around 15 mm, and hangs more freely. In an ear stack, the hoop goes at the bottom and the huggie above it.

A slim ring you wear right next to your engagement ring or wedding ring, on the same finger. It protects your engagement ring, keeps it straight and adds extra sparkle.