Stretch It Body Jewellery
SIBJ is one of the world's leading online specialist retailers and wholesalers in ear stretching kits, plugs, aftercare and body jewellery. We have over 10 years of experience in selling high-quality, unique ear stretching jewellery providing the knowledge, expertise and tools to stretch up confidently and safely.
"The good news is ear weights come in all shapes and sizes, from simple, elegant designs to elaborate showpieces. You'll also find ear hangers and plugs made from materials like steel, brass, stone, glass, and bone. The result? A unique, gravity-defying look you can totally make your own."
Wondering about ear weights? What are they? What do they do? When should you wear them? All perfectly reasonable questions we’re regularly asked by both experienced lobe stretchers and newbies. Want to discover the lowdown on ear weights for stretched ears? Step this way.
It’s here! Your ultimate companion to everything ear weights. We're diving deep into the quirky, edgy, and often misunderstood arena of how to use ear weights safely and stylishly. Let’s do this!
Discussed In This Post
What Are Ear Weights?
Ear weights, also known as ear hangers, are decorative pieces of jewellery worn in stretched earlobes. But they’re a different beast to your everyday plugs or tunnels. In contrast, ear weight hangers and plugs are typically made from heavier materials. And, as their name suggests, weighted ear hangers are designed to hang down, like traditional earrings for pierced ears.
But, you don’t pop them in like a regular piercing. Most commonly, you hook them through a flesh tunnel.
The good news is ear weights come in all shapes and sizes, from simple, elegant designs to elaborate showpieces. You'll also find ear hangers and plugs made from materials like steel, brass, stone, glass, and bone. The result? A unique, gravity-defying look you can totally make your own.
Why Use Ear Weights?
There are various reasons for rocking ear weight hangers and plugs:
- Make a bold statement - For some people, it's all about the aesthetic. Weighted ear hangers and plugs turn your lobes into a canvas of self-expression, after all. So, ear weights are a golden opportunity to reflect your unique personality and style.
- Nod to cultural traditions - Indigenous cultures have used weights for stretching ears for centuries, as symbols of status, spirituality, and community. Some still do to this day. And you can spot many of their ancient artefacts emulated in current styles.
- Give stubborn lobes a nudge in the right direction - Let's not overlook the physical benefits. Some people use ear weights for stretching lobes that don’t want to play ball. It’s NOT a recommended stretching method, as there’s little control. It can help as a workout for uncompromising ears. But it absolutely shouldn’t be your sole stretching method. Dead stretching is your overall go-to! (Read all about it in The World’s Best Ear Stretching Guide.)
Why Not to Use Ear Weights for Ear Stretching?
Tempting as it might be, it's crucial to understand the risks that come with ear weights before rushing to soup up your stretch with supersized ear hangers or plugs. So, keep this golden rule front of mind at all time - Ear weights for stretching might sound like a quick fix, but they’re not the safest route.
So, what are the potential danger zones you should think carefully about?
- Lose out on a smooth stretch - Gravity might not distribute the weight of your jewellery evenly, leading to lopsided lobes.
- Experience torn and / or thinning lobes - Heavy ear weights can cause tears or thin spots, especially if your lobes aren’t fully healed or ready for the extra load.
- Limit blood flow - Wearing heavy weighted ear hangers or plugs for extended periods can cut off blood flow, leading to tissue damage.
Remember the SIBJ mantra… Patience is a virtue when it comes to safe ear stretching. Slow and steady ALWAYS wins the race! (Our cue to slip dead stretching into the conversation – again!)
Now you know the pros and cons of ear weights for stretched ears. It’s time to get down to business.
How to Use Ear Weights for Stretching
Right, let’s make it clear again… Don’t use ear weights for stretching unless you’ve got unyielding piercings that need a bit of encouragement. Otherwise, it’s dead stretching all the way for the safest, smoothest stretches in the business.
What about when you need to use ear hangers to give your lobes a helping hand? Well, you’ll want to get the job done as safely as possible to minimise the risk of anything going wrong.
For these reasons, let’s run through the main do’s and don’t of using weights for stretched ears. First up, how to use ear weights correctly to keep the bad stuff at bay:
Ensure fully healed stretches
Fresh stretches are prone to tearing and infections. So don’t even think about using weighted ear hangers or plugs until you’ve given your lobes time to fully recover from previous stretching. Generally, they’ll need at least two months to chill after a stretch. Although there isn’t a magic number, because everyone's lobes are on their own trip. Some lobes are built differently and might even take six months or more to be totally stoked for the next size.
Start small
Always get going with lighter pieces of jewellery when you’re a newcomer to ear weights. The thing is, you need to let your lobes get used to the extra weight gradually, even though it’s tempting to just to slam in those sick, dobbing showstoppers. Bear in mind jumping in the deep end with heavy weights for stretching ears can – and does - lead to complications. Why risk going there, when it’s completely avoidable?
Choose your ear weights wisely
Avoid cheap metals and plastics that can cause allergic reactions or infections. Instead, pick comfortable ear weight hangers or plugs in non-irritating materials like glass, surgical steel or titanium. Honestly, safety doesn’t mean sacrificing style with ear stretching.
Wear in short bursts
Initially wear your ear hangers for short periods. This trains your lobes to handle the extra weight without overwhelming them. Then increase the duration gradually as your stretches get stronger and used to the extra ounces.
Keep it clean
Ear weights, like any other body mod jewellery, need a regular cleaning. Nothing fancy. Just a gentle soap and warm water to keep them free from bacteria and grime. Your lobes will thank you!
Our LobeLove Saline Solution is also perfect for keeping those nasties at bay.
Now, let’s visit the flipside of the coin - the no-no’s.
What are the Danger Signs When You’re Using Weights for Stretching Ears?
There’s no such thing as 100% risk-free with any sort of ear stretching, from basic ear piercing to more adventurous body modification. Thankfully, most people who follow the correct procedure and look after fresh stretches don’t experience any issues.
You’ll want to keep it that way. So, here are some warning signs to look out for when you’re using ear weights for stretching:
Stay safe not sorry
Patience is key. This probably sounds repetitive. But you need to understand how important it is for your lobes to adapt and heal before diving headlong into hefty ear hangers or plugs. Unless you want tears, blowouts, and several other nasty issues!
Listen and act if you feel pain or discomfort
Pain is your body’s way of telling you something's wrong, like you're stretching too fast, or using ear weights too heavy for your lobes. At the first sniff of anything being amiss, remove your ear hangers or plugs and give your lobes a break.
Ask for professional help
There’s no need to feel like you’re on your own isolated journey with the awesome ear stretching community. Don’t be shy about tapping into it if you're unsure about anything. What better way to get personalised advice and ensure you're on the right track? And if your ear weight hangers or plugs are sending distress signals? It’s time to consult a professional piercer, who will know if your problem’s easily rectifiable, or if you should see your GP.
That’s all the practical stuff done and dusted. So, let’s move swiftly on to the good bits – fabulous ear weights in all their glory.
Styles of Ear Hangers for Every Stretched Lobe
When it comes to ear weights for stretched ears, you’ll discover the same striking variety of shapes, sizes, colours, and materials as plugs, tapers and tunnels. The choice is purely down to your personal preference, and where you’re at on your ear stretching journey. For example, it’s not a good idea to choose the most gigantic ear weight hangers on the market when you’re on your first stretch!
Some of the most wildly popular ear weights include:
Saddle Weights
These beauties sit snugly in your stretched lobe, with a little weight to give them extra oomph. These eye-catching ear weights come in a variety of materials and designs, from contemporary shapes to skulls, shields and snakes. Perfect when you want a bit of weight without going overboard.
Magnetic Weights
These captivating ear hangers have a unique twist. They use the power of magnets, ensuring easy and secure attachment, without the need for traditional jewellery fastenings.
Keyhole Hangers
Designed with a distinctive, elongated shape, they hang down like a pendant, creating a dramatic look. Great for dressing up and turning heads.
Pendant Weights
Want to make a statement? These are real conversation starters, featuring intricate designs dangling from your lobes. And the choice is unreal. Minimalist semi-precious gemstone? Detailed metal sculpture? You decide.
Hoops
Classic, timeless, or edgier hoop weights are a versatile choice. They come in different diameters and materials, providing a wide range of looks from sleek and modern to tribal and traditional. They’re also multipurpose pieces. Wear them alone. Or loop them through with dangling ear hangers. Twice as nice!
And then there’s materials and sizes to think about, besides styles. Ear weights for stretched ears really are a gift that keeps on giving!
Be Spoilt for Choice by Epic Ranges of Ear Weights
There’s an almost infinite choice of stunning designs to make your lobes look lush, in brass, PVD, surgical steel, and every shade of semi-precious stone from Obsidian to Opalite.
Plus, the range of sizes is as broad as it’s long. Some ear hangers can even fit gauges as small as 4mm (6g)!
At the end of the day, weighted ear hangers and plugs are an exciting addition to your stretched ear wardrobe. But it’s essential to always keep the bottom line at heart…
Use Ear Weight Hangers and Plugs to Decorate, Not Stretch
By all means make the most of ear weights for adding flair to your already stretched lobes. But they’re not a reliable method for stretching itself.
Ultimately, they should only be worn for short timeframes and for decorative purposes.
On the other hand, dead stretching with titanium or surgical steel plugs is the safest alternative. This method distributes weight evenly and reduces the risk of blowouts and other complications.
Stretch Smart, Scrub Up in Style
Ear stretching is an art form, and like any art, it requires care, patience, and creativity. For all these reasons and more, ear weights for stretched ears are a brilliant way to express your individuality and add a unique twist to your look. Just remember to stretch smartly, listen to your lobes, and enjoy the ride.
At Stretch It Body Jewellery, we’ve got all your ear stretching essentials covered! So, what are you waiting for? Discover an extensive collection of one-of-a-kind ear weights to help you achieve your lobe goals.
Visit our website for a safe, stylish, and fulfilling ear stretching journey. It’s time to let your lobes steal the spotlight and your ear hangers speak for themselves.
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