Threadless vs. Threaded Piercing Jewellery: Comfort, Safety & When to Switch

Choosing the right type of piercing jewellery goes beyond style - it directly affects comfort, healing, and long-term safety. Two of the most common systems are threadless jewellery and threaded jewellery (either internally or externally threaded).

If you’ve ever struggled with tiny screw-on ends or wondered why piercers recommend threadless pieces, this guide will help you understand the differences and decide when it’s time to switch.

What Is Threaded Piercing Jewellery?

Threaded jewellery uses a bar with screw-on ends to hold decorative tops in place. There are two types:

Externally threaded

The bar has threads on the outside, which screw directly into the ball or decorative top.

Internally threaded

The threads are inside the bar, and the ball or top screws in via a protruding post.

Pros of Threaded Jewellery

• Secure fit, especially for active lifestyles.
• Wide range of decorative ends and bar sizes.
• Internally threaded bars are smooth during insertion, reducing tissue trauma.

Cons

• Externally threaded bars can irritate fresh piercings by dragging threads through the skin.
• Small screw-on ends are easy to lose during cleaning or changes.
• Requires careful tightening to avoid loosening or over tightening.

What Is Threadless Piercing Jewellery?

Threadless jewellery, often used with labret posts, relies on tension instead of threads. A small pin attached to the decorative top is slightly bent, and when pushed into the hollow post, it creates secure pressure.

Pros of Threadless Jewellery

• Ideal for new piercings or downsizing, with no sharp threads.
• Tops can be swapped without fiddly screw threads, perfect for quick styling.
• Less friction reduces irritation during the healing process.
• When properly fitted, threadless tops hold firmly in place.

Cons

• Requires correct bending of the pin, too loose and it may fall out, too tight and removal is difficult.
• Not always available in very large gauges.

Browse our threadless labret tops for effortless styling and safe healing.

Internally Threaded vs. Threadless: A Quick Comparison

When Should You Switch?

Healing Stage: If you start with externally threaded jewellery, consider switching to internally threaded or threadless once your piercing has stabilised to avoid long-term irritation.

Downsizing: After initial swelling subsides (typically 6–12 weeks depending on placement), downsizing your bar helps avoid snagging and migration. Threadless and internally threaded bars are best for this stage.

Style Changes: If you enjoy swapping jewellery often, threadless posts make life easier. You can change tops quickly without risking over-tightening.

Long-Term Comfort: For healed piercings worn daily, internally threaded bars or threadless posts provide smoother wear and less chance of catching threads.

Maintenance Tips

Check fittings regularly: threadless and threaded jewellery can loosen over time with movement.

Clean with saline: regular cleaning prevents build-up that can cause irritation or difficulty removing tops.

Replace worn ends: If threads strip or pins bend beyond repair, replace the component rather than forcing it.

Final Thoughts - Custom Plugs

Both threadless jewellery and internally threaded bars are excellent options for safe, stylish piercings. Beginners benefit from smooth, threadless designs that make healing easier, while experienced wearers may prefer internally threaded jewellery for secure, long-term wear.

At Custom Plugs, we stock a wide selection of labret tops, internally threaded bars, and aftercare essentials so you can choose what’s best for your piercing journey. Whether you’re downsizing, upgrading, or simply refreshing your style, the right system makes all the difference.

Browse our range of piercing jewellery today!