Here's a breakdown of the differences:
Barbells:
* Shape: A straight or curved bar (the "barbell") with a decorative ball or other shape screwed onto each end.
* Insertion/Wear: The barbell passes *through* a piercing, and the ends are screwed on to secure it in place.
* Typical Piercings: Versatile and used in a wide variety of piercings, including:
* Tongue
* Eyebrow
* Nipple
* Industrial
* Tragus
* Rook
* Bridge
* Septum (often circular barbells)
* Some lip piercings (like vertical labrets)
* Surface piercings
Plugs (also sometimes called Gauges or Tunnels):
* Shape: Cylindrical or slightly flared, and designed to fill a larger piercing hole. They can be solid or have a hollow center (tunnels).
* Insertion/Wear: Plugs are designed to be *inserted into* a stretched piercing. They fill the entire space of the piercing, creating a larger hole. They are often held in place by O-rings (rubber bands) or are flared, meaning one or both ends are wider than the middle section to prevent them from falling out.
* Typical Piercings: Primarily used in stretched earlobe piercings. Can also be used in other stretched piercings like the nasal septum.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | Barbell | Plug (Gauge/Tunnel) |
|----------------|---------------------------------|-------------------------------------|
| Shape | Bar with balls/shapes on ends | Cylindrical/flared, solid or hollow |
| Insertion | Through the piercing | Fills a stretched piercing hole |
| Purpose | Secures a piercing | Fills/stretches a piercing |
| Typical Use | Various piercings | Stretched piercings (earlobes, septum) |
| Hole Size | Smaller | Larger (stretched) |
In simple terms:
* A barbell is like a tiny skewer with decorative ends that goes *through* a hole.
* A plug is like a stopper designed to *fill* a large, stretched hole.
It's important to note that improper stretching practices can damage the tissue and cause permanent disfigurement. If you're considering stretching a piercing, research reputable piercers who can guide you through the process safely.