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Downsizing Guide

Downsizing is the process of replacing your initial jewelry with a shorter piece once the swelling from your new piercing has gone down.

Fresh piercings are intentionally fitted with slightly longer jewelry to allow room for swelling during the first stage of healing. Once that swelling has resolved, a shorter piece often provides a better fit and can help your piercing continue healing comfortably.

WHY IS DOWNSIZING IMPORTANT?

Jewelry that's too long after the initial healing period can move around more than it should. That extra movement may cause irritation, snagging, pressure, or make it more difficult for your piercing to settle.

Downsizing helps improve comfort, provides a more secure fit, and supports healthy healing for many piercings.

WHEN SHOULD I DOWNSIZE?

Every piercing heals differently, so there isn't one timeline that fits everyone.

At your piercing appointment, your piercer will let you know if a downsizing appointment is recommended and provide an approximate timeframe based on your piercing and anatomy.

If you're ever unsure whether it's time, we're happy to take a look and help determine if downsizing is appropriate.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DONT DOWNSIZE?

Leaving jewelry that's too long may increase movement, snagging, irritation, and make healing less comfortable. If you're unsure whether your jewelry should be downsized, stop by the shop and we'll be happy to take a look..

IS DOWNSIZING INCLUDED?

No. Downsizing is a separate service because it requires a new piece of jewelry and an additional appointment.

We believe it's an important part of the healing process for many piercings, and we'll discuss when it's recommended before you leave your initial appointment.

Jewelry change fees are $5 plus the cost of your new jewelry which ranges from $10 and up

DO ALL PIERCINGS NEED IT?

Not always. It depends on the type of piercing, your anatomy, and how you're healing. Your piercer will let you know if downsizing is recommended for your piercing.

CAN I DOWNSIZE MY PIERCING MYSELF?

We don't recommend changing jewelry too early or without guidance. Removing jewelry before your piercing is ready can cause irritation or make reinserting the jewelry difficult.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A DOWNSIZING SERVICE?

  • We inspect your piercing.

  • We make sure it's healing appropriately.

  • We replace your initial jewelry with a shorter piece if it's ready.

  • We answer any questions about healing.

THINKING ABOUT UPGRADING?

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  • Many clients choose their downsizing appointment as the perfect time to upgrade their jewelry.

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  • By this stage, much of the initial swelling has gone down, making it a great opportunity to switch to a piece that better matches your personal style. Whether you're looking for something simple and elegant or a little more eye-catching, we offer a carefully curated collection of premium implant-grade titanium jewelry from trusted brands like NeoMetal, Anatometal, Industrial Strength, Junipurr, Buddha Jewelry Organics, and more. We also carry a beautiful selection of solid 14k gold jewelry.

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  • If you're interested in upgrading, your piercer can help you find a piece that's the right size, style, and fit for your healed piercing.

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