Piercing Bar Downsizing: Why It Matters and When to Do It

Getting a new piercing is exciting, but the journey to a fully healed, happy piercing requires more than just patience — it demands proper aftercare. And one critical step that’s often overlooked? Downsizing your piercing bar length.

In this guide, we’ll explain why downsizing matters, when to do it, and how skipping this step could lead to irritation, bumps, or even prolonged healing.

What Is Downsizing?

Downsizing means switching out the longer bar you were pierced with for a shorter one — a key part of safe piercing aftercare and the overall healing process, typically after the initial swelling has gone down. Most piercings are fitted with longer bars to accommodate swelling during the first few weeks — but keeping them in too long can actually cause more harm than good.

Why You Were Pierced With a Longer Bar

When you get a fresh piercing, your piercer will use a longer bar on purpose — it gives your piercing room to swell during the initial healing phase. That extra space helps prevent the jewellery from digging in or getting embedded.

But here’s the important part: that longer bar is not meant to stay in forever. Once the swelling goes down, leaving that long bar in can lead to irritation, bumps, and delayed healing

Why Downsizing Is Crucial

Skipping downsizing can lead to redness, friction, and long-term issues that could undo all your healing progress. Once your piercing begins to settle, keeping a bar that's too long can actually do more harm than good. Here's why switching to a shorter post is important:

How to Know When It’s Time to Downsize

Everyone and every piercing heals differently, but most people are ready to downsize around 6–8 weeks after the initial piercing. In some cases, it could be as early as 4 weeks — but always consult your piercer first.

A few signs it might be time to downsize:

• Swelling has fully gone down

• Jewellery feels loose or wobbly

• No signs of redness, pain, or discharge

💡 Pro tip: Book your downsizing appointment when you get pierced — it’s an easy way to stay on track and avoid last-minute stress.

How to Downsize Safely

• Check in with your piercer: They’ll assess your healing and recommend the right bar length.

• Stick to quality materials: Choose implant-grade titanium or other hypoallergenic options.

• Don’t DIY it: Leave the swap to a pro to avoid irritation or infection.

Downsizing FAQs

Can I downsize earlier than 4 weeks?
Only if your piercer gives the green light — doing it too soon can trap swelling and cause issues.

What if I’m still swollen after 8 weeks?
Head back to your piercer. Ongoing swelling might mean irritation, infection, or an aftercare slip.

Do all piercings need downsizing?
Most cartilage and surface piercings do. Lobes might not, depending on the jewellery.

What to Downsize To

Go for a shorter flatback labret bar — threadless or internally threaded. It sits closer to the skin, reduces movement, and keeps things comfy as you heal.

We offer spare labret bars in various lengths and back shapes, making it easy to find your perfect fit. Sold separately, they're ideal for when it's time to switch things up or simply settle into something more comfortable.

Downsizing might be small, but it makes a big difference. From reducing bumps to boosting comfort, it’s the final step in taking your piercing from fresh to fabulous.

Ready to downsize?
Explore our selection of internally threaded flatback labrets — designed for all-day comfort and built to last. Made from implant grade ASTM F136 titanium with PVD coating, they’re durable, tarnish-free, and ideal for sensitive piercings.