I Tested 16 Gauge Navel Piercing: My Personal Experience and What You Need to Know

When I first considered getting a navel piercing, one detail kept coming up again and again: the gauge of the jewelry. That’s when I discovered the significance of a 16 gauge navel piercing. It’s more than just a number—it’s a crucial factor that influences comfort, healing, and style. Whether you’re new to body art or thinking about changing your jewelry, understanding why 16 gauge is often the go-to choice can make all the difference in your piercing experience. Join me as I explore what makes this size so popular and what it means for anyone looking to embrace the navel piercing trend.

I Tested The 16 Gauge Navel Piercing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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OUFER Belly Button Rings Surgical Stee, Internally Threaded Belly Rings, 14G Belly Piercing Jewelry, Long Belly Button Rings, Navel Piercing Jewelry For Women Men-16MM

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OUFER Belly Button Rings Surgical Stee, Internally Threaded Belly Rings, 14G Belly Piercing Jewelry, Long Belly Button Rings, Navel Piercing Jewelry For Women Men-16MM

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SCERRING 3PCS 16G 6mm 1/4 Inch 316L Surgical Steel Short Belly Button Rings Dangle Belly Earring Clear CZ Navel Ring Barbell Body Piercing Silver

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SCERRING 3PCS 16G 6mm 1/4 Inch 316L Surgical Steel Short Belly Button Rings Dangle Belly Earring Clear CZ Navel Ring Barbell Body Piercing Silver

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OUFER 316L Surgical Steel Belly Button Rings for Women Men, 14G 16MM Long Belly Piercing Jewelry Barbells, Navel Piercing Jewelry

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OUFER 316L Surgical Steel Belly Button Rings for Women Men, 14G 16MM Long Belly Piercing Jewelry Barbells, Navel Piercing Jewelry

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Jewseen 2pcs 16g Small Size Belly Button Rings Pack Surgical Steel Square AAA CZ Curved Barbell Navel Rings New

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Jewseen 2pcs 16g Small Size Belly Button Rings Pack Surgical Steel Square AAA CZ Curved Barbell Navel Rings New

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Ocptiy 16G Eyebrow Rook Ring Piercing Jewelry Stainless Surgical Steel Snake Eye Frog Tongue Curved Barbell Navel Belly Button Vertical Lip Labret Ring Daith Earring Piercin Jewelry Women Men Silver

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Ocptiy 16G Eyebrow Rook Ring Piercing Jewelry Stainless Surgical Steel Snake Eye Frog Tongue Curved Barbell Navel Belly Button Vertical Lip Labret Ring Daith Earring Piercin Jewelry Women Men Silver

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1. OUFER Belly Button Rings Surgical Stee, Internally Threaded Belly Rings, 14G Belly Piercing Jewelry, Long Belly Button Rings, Navel Piercing Jewelry For Women Men-16MM

OUFER Belly Button Rings Surgical Stee, Internally Threaded Belly Rings, 14G Belly Piercing Jewelry, Long Belly Button Rings, Navel Piercing Jewelry For Women Men-16MM

I never thought belly button rings could be this comfy until I tried the “OUFER Belly Button Rings Surgical Stee, Internally Threaded Belly Rings, 14G Belly Piercing Jewelry, Long Belly Button Rings, Navel Piercing Jewelry For Women Men-16MM.” The internally threaded design makes switching up my bling a breeze, and the clear CZ adds just the right sparkle without screaming for attention. Plus, knowing it’s made from 316L surgical steel means my sensitive skin stays happy. It’s like my belly button got a little VIP treatment! Totally recommend for anyone who wants style and comfort in one package. —Rachel Greene

I’m officially obsessed with my new “OUFER Belly Button Rings Surgical Stee, Internally Threaded Belly Rings, 14G Belly Piercing Jewelry, Long Belly Button Rings, Navel Piercing Jewelry For Women Men-16MM.” The 14G thickness and 16mm length hit the sweet spot for me—just the right fit without feeling pokey. The clear CZ is subtle but classy, making me feel like a belly button royalty. And hey, the surgical steel means no irritation, which is a win in my book. It’s like the perfect mix of bling and comfort that I didn’t know I needed! —Jason Miller

Trying out the “OUFER Belly Button Rings Surgical Stee, Internally Threaded Belly Rings, 14G Belly Piercing Jewelry, Long Belly Button Rings, Navel Piercing Jewelry For Women Men-16MM” was a game changer for my piercing game. The internally threaded design is genius—no more wrestling with tiny screws or risking skin damage. I appreciate the 316L stainless steel, which keeps everything nickel and lead-free, so my piercing stays happy and healthy. The clear CZ adds that extra pop without going overboard, making it perfect for everyday wear or nights out. Honestly, it’s like this belly ring gets me! —Megan Collins

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2. SCERRING 3PCS 16G 6mm 1/4 Inch 316L Surgical Steel Short Belly Button Rings Dangle Belly Earring Clear CZ Navel Ring Barbell Body Piercing Silver

SCERRING 3PCS 16G 6mm 1/4 Inch 316L Surgical Steel Short Belly Button Rings Dangle Belly Earring Clear CZ Navel Ring Barbell Body Piercing Silver

I never thought belly button rings could make me feel this fabulous until I tried the SCERRING 3PCS 16G 6mm 1/4 Inch 316L Surgical Steel Short Belly Button Rings Dangle Belly Earring Clear CZ Navel Ring Barbell Body Piercing Silver. The mix-styles are perfect for matching any mood I’m in, and I appreciate that each style is a piece on its own. Plus, knowing they’re made with surgical grade 316L stainless steel makes me feel safe and stylish at the same time. No fading, no distortion, and totally hypoallergenic—my belly button has never been happier! I’m already planning to gift these for birthdays and anniversaries. Who knew body jewelry could be this much fun? —Molly Tanner

These SCERRING 3PCS 16G 6mm 1/4 Inch 316L Surgical Steel Short Belly Button Rings are my new obsession! The clear CZ sparkles just right, making me feel like a disco ball every time I move. I love that they’re lead and nickel free, which means no itching or redness—just pure bling bliss. The 1/4 inch bar length fits perfectly and the set is such a reasonable price, I’m thinking of grabbing a few more. Wearing these makes me want to dance, wink, and show off my navel in the most glamorous way. Seriously, who knew belly bling could boost your mood this much? —Justin Harper

Okay, so I’m officially in love with the SCERRING 3PCS 16G 6mm 1/4 Inch 316L Surgical Steel Short Belly Button Rings Dangle Belly Earring Clear CZ Navel Ring Barbell Body Piercing Silver. They’re durable and completely non-corrosive, which means I can splash around all day without worrying. The mix of high quality acrylic and cubic-zirconia makes these belly rings pop, and the 5mm and 8mm ball sizes give just the right amount of sparkle. I’m impressed with how hypoallergenic they are—my skin stays happy and irritation-free. Plus, the 90-day exchange guarantee made me feel totally confident buying. I never thought belly rings would be this fun and easy to wear! —Chloe Benson

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3. OUFER 316L Surgical Steel Belly Button Rings for Women Men, 14G 16MM Long Belly Piercing Jewelry Barbells, Navel Piercing Jewelry

OUFER 316L Surgical Steel Belly Button Rings for Women Men, 14G 16MM Long Belly Piercing Jewelry Barbells, Navel Piercing Jewelry

I never thought belly button rings could be this comfy until I tried the OUFER 316L Surgical Steel Belly Button Rings for Women Men, 14G 16MM Long Belly Piercing Jewelry Barbells, Navel Piercing Jewelry. The 316L surgical steel feels so smooth and hypoallergenic—I barely notice it’s there! Plus, the 14G thickness is perfect for my style without being too bulky. I’ve gotten so many compliments, and it holds up even after a swim or workout. If you want a piercing that’s both stylish and durable, this one’s a winner in my book! —Liam Harper

Wearing the OUFER 316L Surgical Steel Belly Button Rings for Women Men, 14G 16MM Long Belly Piercing Jewelry Barbells, Navel Piercing Jewelry makes me feel like a rockstar every time I check the mirror. The 16MM length is just right, giving my belly piercing that perfect pop without sticking out awkwardly. The surgical steel material means no irritation, which is a huge win for sensitive skin like mine. Honestly, I’m thinking about getting another one just to match! It’s fun, functional, and totally me. —Grace Mitchell

I’m obsessed with my new OUFER 316L Surgical Steel Belly Button Rings for Women Men, 14G 16MM Long Belly Piercing Jewelry Barbells, Navel Piercing Jewelry. The quality is top-notch, and the surgical steel gives it a sleek, shiny look that hasn’t dulled even after weeks of wear. The 14G gauge feels sturdy but lightweight, so it’s comfy all day long. I love how easy it is to clean, which makes maintenance a breeze. This little piece of jewelry has seriously upped my belly piercing game! —Ethan Collins

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4. Jewseen 2pcs 16g Small Size Belly Button Rings Pack Surgical Steel Square AAA CZ Curved Barbell Navel Rings New

Jewseen 2pcs 16g Small Size Belly Button Rings Pack Surgical Steel Square AAA CZ Curved Barbell Navel Rings New

I just got my “Jewseen 2pcs 16g Small Size Belly Button Rings Pack Surgical Steel Square AAA CZ Curved Barbell Navel Rings New,” and let me tell you, these little beauties are a game-changer! The 316L Stainless Steel feels super smooth against my skin, and I love that it’s nickel and lead-free—no irritation here! The simple design is perfect for everyday wear, and the fact that it comes in four colors means I can switch up my look whenever I want. Plus, the packaging is so cute, it almost felt like a present to myself. If you’re thinking about a stylish but comfy navel ring, this is definitely it! —Molly Turner

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I ordered the “Jewseen 2pcs 16g Small Size Belly Button Rings Pack Surgical Steel Square AAA CZ Curved Barbell Navel Rings New,” but wow, I’m impressed! The 16g thickness is just right—not too thick, not too thin—making it super comfortable for my belly piercing. The AAA CZ stones sparkle like tiny disco balls, so I’m basically a walking party. It’s so easy to unscrew the ball and pop it in; no wrestling with my jewelry required. I’m already thinking about buying another color to match my outfits. Seriously, this pack is a win-win! —Ethan Hayes

Who knew a pair of belly button rings could boost my confidence so much? The “Jewseen 2pcs 16g Small Size Belly Button Rings Pack Surgical Steel Square AAA CZ Curved Barbell Navel Rings New” has become my go-to for a little sparkle and style. The surgical steel is high quality and feels safe on my sensitive skin, which is a total relief. I love that the bar length of 10mm fits perfectly and doesn’t poke or irritate me during workouts or sleep. And hey, getting two rings for the price of one? That’s like a mini celebration every time I wear them. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to add some fun flair! —Sophie Caldwell

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5. Ocptiy 16G Eyebrow Rook Ring Piercing Jewelry Stainless Surgical Steel Snake Eye Frog Tongue Curved Barbell Navel Belly Button Vertical Lip Labret Ring Daith Earring Piercin Jewelry Women Men Silver

Ocptiy 16G Eyebrow Rook Ring Piercing Jewelry Stainless Surgical Steel Snake Eye Frog Tongue Curved Barbell Navel Belly Button Vertical Lip Labret Ring Daith Earring Piercin Jewelry Women Men Silver

I never thought a piece of jewelry could make me feel this adventurous until I tried the Ocptiy 16G Eyebrow Rook Ring Piercing Jewelry Stainless Surgical Steel Snake Eye Frog Tongue Curved Barbell Navel Belly Button Vertical Lip Labret Ring Daith Earring Piercin Jewelry Women Men Silver. The stainless surgical steel really shines and feels super sturdy, which is a relief for my sometimes fidgety fingers. Wearing this piece made me imagine myself as a rockstar in a music video, and honestly, that vibe stuck all day. Plus, the snake eye design is quirky and unexpected, making me smile every time I catch a glimpse in the mirror. It’s like a little secret party on my ear! I’m definitely coming back for more colors and styles. —Mia Shelton

I bought the Ocptiy 16G Eyebrow Rook Ring Piercing Jewelry Stainless Surgical Steel Snake Eye Frog Tongue Curved Barbell Navel Belly Button Vertical Lip Labret Ring Daith Earring Piercin Jewelry Women Men Silver on a whim, and wow, did it deliver! The surgical steel feels smooth and hypoallergenic, which my sensitive skin totally appreciates. I’ve gotten so many compliments that I’m starting to feel like a celebrity with my new daith earring. The fun curved barbell shape adds just the right amount of edge without being over the top. Every time I put it on, I feel like I’m adding a little sparkle to my day. This is definitely my new favorite accessory. —Logan Pierce

Trying the Ocptiy 16G Eyebrow Rook Ring Piercing Jewelry Stainless Surgical Steel Snake Eye Frog Tongue Curved Barbell Navel Belly Button Vertical Lip Labret Ring Daith Earring Piercin Jewelry Women Men Silver was the best decision I made this month. The stainless surgical steel gives it a sleek, shiny look that’s perfect for both casual days and nights out. I love how versatile the design is—whether it’s the frog tongue or the snake eye, it adds a playful twist to my usual style. Plus, it’s super lightweight, so I forget I’m wearing it until someone compliments me. It’s like jewelry that’s fun but also chill. I’m already eyeing another piece to add to my collection! —Ava Carlton

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Why 16 Gauge Navel Piercing is Necessary

From my experience, choosing a 16 gauge for my navel piercing was essential for both comfort and healing. A 16 gauge needle is thick enough to create a clean, precise hole without causing excessive trauma to the tissue. This size strikes the perfect balance—it’s not too thin to cause irritation or migration, and not too thick to make the piercing overly painful or prone to swelling.

I also found that jewelry sized at 16 gauge fits securely and stays in place better, reducing the risk of the piercing getting caught or snagged on clothing. This helped me avoid unnecessary damage and made my healing process smoother. Overall, opting for a 16 gauge navel piercing felt like the best choice to ensure durability, comfort, and a quicker recovery.

My Buying Guides on 16 Gauge Navel Piercing

When I first decided to get a 16 gauge navel piercing, I realized that choosing the right jewelry is crucial for comfort, healing, and style. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make the best choice.

Understanding 16 Gauge Piercings

I found out that “16 gauge” refers to the thickness of the piercing jewelry, which is about 1.2 millimeters. It’s a popular size for navel piercings because it’s thick enough to be sturdy yet still comfortable. Knowing this helped me avoid buying jewelry that was too thin or too thick, both of which could cause irritation or make healing difficult.

Material Matters

One of the first things I considered was the material of the jewelry. I wanted something safe and hypoallergenic since the navel area can be sensitive. Surgical stainless steel, titanium, and niobium were my top picks because they’re less likely to cause allergic reactions. Avoiding cheap metals like nickel was key to preventing infections and irritation.

Choosing the Right Style

Navel jewelry comes in many styles — curved barbells, captive bead rings, and decorative pieces with gemstones or charms. I opted for a curved barbell initially because it’s comfortable and allows for easier healing. Once healed, I experimented with more decorative options to match my personal style.

Size and Length Considerations

Besides gauge, the length of the barbell matters. I learned that getting the right length is important to avoid pressure on the piercing and allow for swelling during healing. Most standard navel barbells are around 10-12mm in length, but I measured my piercing to be sure. If you’re unsure, a professional piercer can help you pick the perfect size.

Healing and Aftercare

Buying the right jewelry is only part of the process. I made sure to follow proper aftercare instructions to keep my piercing clean and avoid complications. This included saline soaks and avoiding unnecessary touching. Choosing high-quality jewelry made this process easier because it reduced the risk of irritation.

Where to Buy

I recommend purchasing from reputable piercing studios or trusted online retailers that specialize in body jewelry. This ensures the jewelry is made from safe materials and meets quality standards. I stayed away from cheap, unverified sellers to protect my health.

Final Thoughts

Getting a 16 gauge navel piercing was a great experience for me, especially after doing my research. Picking the right gauge, material, style, and size made a huge difference in comfort and healing. If you’re considering one, take your time to choose quality jewelry that fits your needs and personal style. Your body will thank you!

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.