The Beauty of Wood Plugs for Stretched Ears | Body Jewelry

The Beauty and Variety of Wood Plugs

Wood has been used for ear gauges and plugs for centuries. In many cultures, stretched ears with wooden adornments hold deep symbolic meaning. Today, wood remains a top choice for its natural beauty, uniqueness, and comfort. Let's explore the allure of wood plugs and the many wood types available for your stretched ears.

The Appeal of Wood as a Body Jewelry Material

Wood boasts visual intrigue that man-made materials simply cannot replicate. With swirling grains and knots, no two sets of wood plugs look exactly the same. Wood also feels smooth and pleasant against the skin. It's lightweight and breathable as well, unlike materials such as stone or glass.

Sourced ethically and sustainably, most wood types make an eco-friendly alternative too. This natural material also carries spiritual symbolism in some cultures. For example, many Native American tribes have long-standing traditions around ear stretching with carved wood pieces.

Wood Texture and Grain Variety

From fine-grained woods to those with visible knots, grooves, and multicolored hues, wood plugs display striking diversity. Here are some top wood types used for today's hand-carved wood plugs and tunnels:

• Maple: Pale, smooth, and finely grained
• Walnut: Rich brown with dark swirling grains
• Ebony: Deepest black with faint grey veins
• Birch: Light tan with natural dark knots and mineral streaks
• Bamboo: Beige-colored with visible section joints
• Teak: Medium brown with lighter and darker patches
• Rosewood: Reddish brown with irregular black grains
• Zebrawood: Golden brown with darker wavy stripes

With this broad palette to choose from, you can select wood plugs to coordinate with your style and skin tone. The wood's unique patterning also ensures your ear gauges stand out.

Wood Plug Shapes and Styles

In addition to varied wood types, you can find wood plugs in different shapes and embellished styles. Round and oval shapes work well for newly stretched ears. Creative carved forms like spirals, claws, and arrowheads better suit healed stretches. Here are some top wood plug style varieties:

• Smooth sanded
• Rough-hewn
• Carved shapes and symbols
• Inlaid stones or crystals
• Hand-painted art
• Etched designs
• Wrapped with leather or hemp

Small wooden hoops, dangling chains, or gemstone studs can further decorate your wood tunnels. With all these options, you can find the perfect style to express your individuality.

Benefits of Wood for Stretched Ears

Beyond aesthetics, wood makes a smart jewelry choice for newly stretched piercings and healed ones alike. Wood is very light compared to materials such as stone, horn, or glass. This puts less pressure on tender earlobes. Wood also naturally exudes moisturizing oils rather than drying out your skin.

Properly sealed, wood won't harbor bacteria either. Sanded and treated wood plugs resist collecting ear cheese or odors too. Unlike porous materials, wood doesn't promote infections. As always, proper ear stretch aftercare is key no matter what material you choose.

How to Care for Wood Plugs

Wood plugs last for years when appropriately cleaned and stored. Gently wash them with mild antibacterial soap and water whenever removed. Make sure to thoroughly dry both your ears and wood plugs afterwards.

Moisture can warp wood over time, causing fitting issues. Store wood plugs in breathable containers too, not sealed bags. Periodically apply skin-safe wood conditioner to maintain smoothness and sheen. By caring for your wood gauges properly, they'll remain supple and comfortable in your stretched piercings.

Finding Your Perfect Wood Plugs and Tunnels

With myriad wood types, styles, and sizes available, you're sure to discover your ideal wood plugs. Check out specialty body jewelry shops online and locally to browse top artisan options. Custom ordering through piercing studios also lets you get exactly what you want.

Well-crafted wood plugs feel sublime in stretched ears while making an earthy fashion statement. They're the perfect way to showcase your commitment to body modification with natural beauty and eco-friendly style.

FAQs

What are the most skin-friendly woods for plugs?

Maple, birch, and bamboo generally irritate pierced skin less often than woods with natural oils like teak or rosewood. Always choose sanded and sealed wood plugs too.

Can I stretch my ears with wood plugs?

Yes, wood can work for stretching provided you size up gradually. Pick smooth, rounded wood plugs while increasing gauge to minimize tearing. However, glass or steel plugs may cause less irritation for initial stretches.

How do I clean wood plugs?

Gently wash with mild soap and rinse well after wearing. Fully drying wood plugs keeps them in best condition. Apply wood conditioner every 1-2 months as maintenance.

What if my wood plugs become too loose or tight?

Prolonged moisture exposure can make wood plugs fit poorly over time. Consider replacing ill-fitting wood plugs with a new preferred size, and take added care to keep the wood dry moving forward.