Does stretching your ear with expanders hurt when using them?
It’s normal to feel some slight discomfort during stretching, especially when changing sizes. However, it shouldn’t cause intense pain—if it does, it may indicate that you’re progressing too quickly.
What is the best size to start stretching your ears?
If you’re just starting, it’s recommended to begin with small sizes (e.g., 1.6mm / 2mm) and increase gradually, respecting your body’s adaptation time.
How long should you wait between each ear stretching size increase?
Ideally, you should wait 2 to 4 weeks between each size, ensuring your earlobe heals properly before moving on. You should make sure your ear is fully healed before progressing to the next stretch.
Is the acrylic used in expanders safe for your skin?
Yes, acrylic is lightweight and comfortable. However, for more sensitive skin or during the initial stages, some body piercing professionals recommend alternating with materials such as surgical steel.
Can I sleep with the acrylic expander?
Yes, but you should be careful. Since it’s lightweight, it’s comfortable, but avoid putting too much pressure on the earlobe while sleeping to prevent irritation. Try not to sleep on the ear you’re stretching.
Do I need to use any lubricant on the expander during stretching?
Yes, it’s recommended to use a lubricant, such as Piranha yellow petroleum jelly, to make insertion easier and reduce friction during stretching.
What are the cleaning and hygiene care tips for acrylic expanders?
The expander should be cleaned regularly with warm water and mild soap to ensure good hygiene and prevent infections. You should also use saline and antibacterial solutions on your ear during the stretching phase. We recommend Easy Piercing by Otzi solutions.
Are these expanders suitable for professional use?
Yes, they are suitable for both personal and professional use, as long as proper hygiene and stretching practices are followed.
Is the expander available in different sizes?
Yes, the expanders come in various colors and many sizes, from 1.6mm, which is used right after a lobe piercing, up to 24mm for those who prefer larger stretches and want to progress to ear plugs and flesh tunnels.
Is the expander only available in a straight shape, or are there curved options too?
At Piranha Supplies, you’ll find a wide variety of acrylic expanders in both straight and curved shapes, available in various colors and designs.
What’s the difference between straight expanders and curved expanders?
The main difference is in the shape and ergonomics. Their use and function are the same: both are used to increase the diameter of the ear and stretch the lobe to sizes that allow the use of ear expanders, ear plugs, or flesh tunnels. The shape can affect comfort, for example while sleeping.