Internally Threaded Curved Barbells: Why They’re Better, Safer, and Way More Stylish

Tired of snagging your piercing jewelry or struggling with uncomfortable pieces? Internally threaded curved barbells might just be your new go-to. They're smooth, secure, and built for real piercers who care about comfort and style. If you've ever experienced the frustration of jewelry that irritates your piercing or feels awkward to wear, it's time to upgrade to internally threaded options that prioritize both your comfort and aesthetic.

In the world of body jewelry, small design details make a massive difference in how your piercings heal and feel. The threading system—how the decorative ends attach to the barbell—might seem like a minor detail, but it significantly impacts your piercing experience. Internally threaded curved barbells represent the gold standard in piercing jewelry, combining ergonomic design with safety features that professional piercers recommend.

Explore our full range of internally threaded curved barbells designed with quality and healing in mind.

16G Prong Set Premium Zirconia Curve

What Is an Internally Threaded Curved Barbell?

Before diving into benefits and styles, let's clarify exactly what we're talking about when we refer to internally threaded curved barbells.

Internally vs. Externally Threaded Jewelry

The threading of body jewelry refers to how the decorative ends attach to the barbell shaft. There are two main threading designs:

Externally Threaded: The older, less desirable design where the threads (screw ridges) are on the outside of the barbell posts. The decorative end has a hole with internal threading that screws onto these external threads.

Internally Threaded: The modern, superior design where the threads are on the inside of the barbell, and the decorative ends have a small threaded post that screws into the barbell. The barbell shaft remains completely smooth on the outside.

This distinction makes a crucial difference for several reasons:

• Insertion comfort: Externally threaded jewelry has rough threads that must pass through your piercing channel, potentially causing micro-tears, irritation, and discomfort. Internally threaded barbells present a smooth surface that glides through your piercing without dragging or catching on tissue.
  
  
• Healing impact: For new or healing piercings, the smooth surface of internally threaded jewelry minimizes trauma and irritation, supporting faster and more comfortable healing.
  
  
• Longevity: The threading design of internally threaded jewelry is typically more precise and durable, resulting in ends that stay secure and threads that don't wear down as quickly.
  
  

14G Internally Threaded Perfect Curve Barbell

Why the Curved Barbell Shape Matters

The curve in a curved barbell isn't just for aesthetics—it's designed to follow the natural contours of specific body areas. Unlike straight barbells or circular rings, curved barbells have a gentle arc that makes them ideal for several popular piercing locations:

Eyebrow Piercings: The curve follows the natural arch of the eyebrow, allowing the jewelry to sit flush against your skin without putting pressure on the piercing channel.

Rook Piercings: The compact curve fits perfectly into the tight fold of the rook cartilage in your ear.

Daith Piercings: Similar to the rook, the curve complements the circular anatomy of the ear cartilage where daith piercings are placed.

Navel (Belly Button) Piercings: Perhaps the most common use for curved barbells, the gentle curve accommodates the shape of your abdomen and the angle of the piercing through the navel rim.

Vertical Labret and Snakebite Piercings: The curve helps the jewelry follow the natural contour of your lip while positioning the decorative ends for maximum visibility.

The combination of internal threading and curved design creates jewelry that's specifically engineered to complement your anatomy while maximizing comfort and minimizing healing complications.

Why Internally Threaded Curved Barbells Are Better for Healing and Long-Term Wear

The advantages of internally threaded curved barbells extend far beyond initial comfort—they offer numerous benefits throughout your piercing journey.

Gentle on New or Sensitive Piercings

New piercings are essentially healing wounds, making them particularly vulnerable to irritation and trauma. Internally threaded curved barbells provide several healing advantages:

• Smooth insertion and removal: Without external threads to drag through your piercing channel, there's significantly less risk of tissue damage during jewelry changes.
  
  
• Reduced inflammation: The smooth shaft minimizes friction against the healing tissue, helping to prevent or reduce swelling.
  
  
• Lower risk of complications: By eliminating the micro-tears that can occur with externally threaded jewelry, internally threaded options help reduce the risk of infection, keloids, hypertrophic scarring, and other healing complications.
  
  
• Less cleaning difficulty: Without the crevices of external threading, there are fewer places for bacteria and debris to accumulate, making it easier to keep your piercing clean during healing.
  
  

These benefits are equally valuable for fully healed piercings, especially those that remain somewhat sensitive or are located in areas prone to catching or snagging.

More Secure Fit = Less Worry About Losing Ends

Have you ever lost the ball end of your body jewelry, possibly without even noticing until later? This common problem happens much less frequently with quality internally threaded jewelry:

• Precision engineering: The threading systems of internally threaded jewelry tend to be manufactured to higher tolerances, creating a more secure connection.
  
  
• Better thread engagement: The design typically allows for deeper thread engagement between the post and end, making it less likely to work loose over time.
  
  
• Protected threads: Since the threads are housed inside the barbell rather than exposed, they're less likely to become damaged, deformed, or worn down—all factors that can lead to loose ends.
  
  

For piercings in high-movement areas like navels or eyebrows, this security is particularly valuable, reducing the risk of lost jewelry parts and potential piercing closure.

Ideal for Frequent Jewelry Changes

For those who like to switch up their look, internally threaded curved barbells offer significant advantages:

• Easier changes: Once you get the hang of the threading direction, internally threaded jewelry is typically easier to change at home without professional assistance.
  
  
• Less discomfort during changes: The smooth shaft slides easily through your piercing channel during removal and insertion, minimizing discomfort during style switches.
  
  
• Greater style versatility: Because of the secure threading system, you can often purchase multiple ends to use with the same barbell, allowing for style changes without removing and reinserting the barbell itself (perfect for healed piercings).
  
  
• Professional-friendly: When you do visit your piercer for a jewelry change, they'll appreciate working with quality internally threaded pieces that won't damage your piercing.
  
  

Top perks of internally threaded jewelry:

• Less trauma during insertion and removal
• Easier hygiene maintenance and cleaning
• Aesthetic finishes look cleaner without visible threading
• More secure attachment of decorative ends
• Generally higher quality materials and construction
• Recommended by the Association of Professional Piercers (APP)

Best Materials for Internally Threaded Curved Barbells

The quality of materials used in your body jewelry is just as important as the threading design. For optimal safety, healing, and longevity, certain materials stand well above others.

ASTM F-136 Titanium

ASTM F-136 implant-grade titanium represents the gold standard for body jewelry materials and is particularly well-suited for internally threaded curved barbells:

Key benefits include:

• Hypoallergenic properties: Titanium is biocompatible and rarely causes allergic reactions, making it suitable even for those with metal sensitivities.
• Lightweight comfort: Titanium is approximately 45% lighter than steel, creating more comfortable wear, especially in larger pieces.
• Corrosion resistance: Unlike some metals, titanium doesn't corrode or tarnish when exposed to body fluids, ensuring long-lasting appearance and safety.
• Anodization potential: Titanium can be anodized to create vibrant colors without coatings that might chip or wear off, allowing for safe color options.
• Durability: High strength-to-weight ratio means titanium jewelry maintains its shape and threading integrity even with frequent use.

When shopping for titanium jewelry, specifically look for "ASTM F-136" or "implant-grade titanium" certification to ensure you're getting genuine high-quality material.

18K Gold for Piercings

For those seeking a luxurious look while maintaining safety, solid 18K gold (not plated) provides an excellent alternative:

Gold benefits include:

• Biocompatibility: 18K gold, especially nickel-free varieties, works well for most people's bodies.
• Warmth and luxury: The distinctive warm glow of gold creates a classic, upscale aesthetic.
• Variety of tones: Available in yellow, rose, and white gold options to complement different skin tones and style preferences.
• Less reactive than lower karat gold: 18K contains more pure gold (75%) and fewer alloy metals than 14K, making it generally better for sensitive piercings.
• Tarnish resistance: Quality gold maintains its appearance without requiring frequent polishing.

When selecting gold body jewelry, always ensure it's solid gold rather than gold-plated, as plating can wear off and expose underlying metals that might cause reactions.

When to Avoid Cheaper Alloys

The temptation to save money on body jewelry can lead to painful consequences. Here's why you should avoid cheaper metal options:

Problematic materials include:

• Mystery metals: Unspecified alloys often contain high levels of nickel, one of the most common metal allergens.
• Plated jewelry: Surface coatings wear away relatively quickly with body contact, exposing potentially reactive base metals.
• Surgical steel: Despite the medical-sounding name, this is not standardized and can contain varying amounts of nickel and other allergens.
• Sterling silver: Tarnishes in contact with body fluids and can cause permanent skin discoloration (argyria) in piercings.
• Brass and copper: These reactive metals can cause green skin discoloration and potentially toxic reactions in piercing channels.

For new piercings especially, investing in quality materials from the start helps prevent complications that could ultimately cost more in medical treatment or having to abandon a piercing altogether.

Choosing the Right Internally Threaded Curved Barbell for Your Piercing

With the basics covered, let's explore how to select the perfect internally threaded curved barbell for your specific needs.

Size Guide: Gauge & Length Basics

Getting the size right is crucial for both comfort and healing. Here's what you need to know:

Gauge (Thickness): The gauge refers to the thickness of the barbell shaft and follows the standard body jewelry measurement system where higher numbers indicate thinner barbells:

• 18G (1.0mm): Common for some ear cartilage piercings
• 16G (1.2mm): Standard for eyebrow, many ear piercings, and some lips
• 14G (1.6mm): Typical for navel, some cartilage, and vertical labrets
• 12G (2.0mm) and larger: Less common, usually for stretched piercings

Length: The length of a curved barbell is measured as a straight line from end to end (not following the curve). Proper length allows for:

• Room for initial swelling in new piercings
• Proper placement of the decorative ends on the surface of the skin
• Comfortable movement without pressure on the piercing channel

Common sizes by piercing location:

• Eyebrow: 16G, 8-10mm length
• Rook/Daith: 16G, 6-8mm length
• Navel: 14G, 10-12mm length (standard), longer options available for pregnancy or anatomical needs
• Vertical Labret: 14G or 16G, approximately 10mm length

How to measure or consult your piercer:

• For existing piercings, your current jewelry can serve as a reference
• Professional piercers can assess your anatomy and recommend ideal sizes
• When in doubt, slightly longer is better than too short, especially for healing piercings
• Consider potential swelling when selecting length for new piercings

Ball vs. Gem Ends, Cones & Custom Shapes

The ends of your curved barbell define its aesthetic appeal and can also affect comfort:

Ball Ends:

• Classic and versatile: Simple spheres create a timeless look
• Sizing options: Available from tiny 2mm balls to larger 6mm+ statement sizes
• Comfort factor: Smooth balls tend to be comfortable and less likely to catch than other shapes
• Material matching: Usually made from the same material as the barbell for a cohesive look

Gem Ends:

• Sparkle factor: Set with genuine or synthetic gemstones for added visual interest
• Color possibilities: Available in practically every color to match or accent your style
• Setting styles: Prong, bezel, or tension settings create different looks and comfort levels
• Size considerations: Gem ends tend to be slightly larger than basic balls, creating more visual impact

Cone, Spike, and Custom Shapes:

• Edge factor: Creates more dramatic, alternative aesthetics
• Directional design: Points and asymmetrical shapes can be positioned for specific visual effects
• Comfort note: May be more likely to catch on clothing or hair than smoother options
• Expression potential: Custom shapes like stars, opals, flowers, or symbols allow for more personalized expression

Style Guide:

• Minimalist: Small ball ends or flat discs in matching metals
• Bold: Larger gems, unique shapes, or contrasting colors
• Everyday: Moderately sized ends that won't catch on clothing or hair
• Special occasion: More elaborate or dangly options when catching hazards are less concern

Finishes & Colors That Match Your Aesthetic

The finish and color of your internally threaded curved barbell can dramatically alter its appearance:

Standard Metal Finishes:

• High polish: Bright, reflective finish that maximizes shine
• Matte/satin: Subdued, non-reflective finish for a more understated look
• Brushed: Textured finish with fine lines that reduces fingerprints and adds subtle interest

Color Options:

• Anodized titanium: Electric process creates vibrant colors from gold and bronze tones to purples, blues, greens, and more
• Black PVD coating: Creates a dramatic dark appearance (ensure it's high-quality PVD for durability)
• Gold tones: From authentic gold to PVD and anodized options that mimic the warm glow
• Rainbow/oil slick effect: Multi-color anodizing creates shifting color patterns

Mixed Finishes for Custom Looks:

• Polished barbell with matte or textured ends
• Colored barbell with contrasting end colors
• Neutral barbell with gemstone or opal accents
• Two-tone combinations that incorporate multiple metal colors

When selecting colors and finishes, consider both your personal style and practical factors like dress codes for work or school, as well as how visible you want your piercing to be in different settings.

Internally Threaded Jewelry for Specific Piercings

Different piercings have unique needs and considerations when it comes to selecting the perfect internally threaded curved barbell.

Eyebrow Piercings

Eyebrow piercings benefit significantly from internally threaded curved barbells:

Key considerations:

• Size matters: Most eyebrow piercings use 16G barbells with a length of 8-10mm
• End size balance: Choose ends that won't overwhelm the delicate area—3-4mm diameter ends are typical
• Migration prevention: Quality internally threaded jewelry reduces the risk of rejection, which eyebrow piercings are prone to
• Catching hazards: Select ends that minimize the risk of catching on towels, clothing, or during sleep
• Visibility factor: Both ends of an eyebrow piercing are visible, so consider matching or complementary end designs

Style tip: For eyebrows, symmetrical ends often look most balanced, but you can create interest with different colors or textures while keeping the same shape.

Rook & Daith Piercings

These inner ear cartilage piercings have specific jewelry needs due to their unique locations:

Rook piercing considerations:

• Compact fit: The tight fold of the rook cartilage typically requires shorter curved barbells (6-8mm)
• End visibility: Often only one end is highly visible, so some people opt for a statement end on the visible side
• Insertion challenges: The location can make changing jewelry tricky, making the smooth insertion of internally threaded options particularly valuable
• Healing sensitivity: Cartilage piercings benefit greatly from the irritation-reducing design of internal threading

Daith piercing notes:

• Curve radius: Daith piercings often use circular barbells or rings, but curved barbells can work well for some anatomy
• Pressure points: The placement inside the ear means jewelry should be comfortable during headphone use and sleeping
• Statement potential: This piercing can showcase decorative ends effectively due to its framed position within the ear

Style tip: For both piercings, consider how the jewelry will look in profile and from different angles, as these piercings are viewed from multiple perspectives.

Belly Button (Navel) Piercings

Navel piercings are perhaps the most common application for curved barbells:

Navel jewelry specifics:

• Standard sizing: Typically 14G with a length of 10-12mm for standard navels
• Top/bottom distinction: Traditional navel jewelry has a larger, more decorative bottom end and a smaller top end
• Anatomy considerations: Different navel shapes may require specific curve depths or lengths
• Activity impact: Consider your lifestyle—active sports or high-waisted clothing might interact with certain end styles
• Seasonal changes: Many people switch between more elaborate styles for showing off and more practical options for layering seasons

Special considerations:

• Pregnancy: Specific pregnancy navel barbells with longer, more flexible designs are available
• Floating navels: Some anatomies benefit from "floating" navel designs where the top end sits flush rather than using a ball
• Healing stage: New navel piercings particularly benefit from internally threaded design due to the movement this area experiences

Style tip: Navel piercings can handle larger, more elaborate ends than many other piercings—don't be afraid to go bold if that's your style.

Vertical Labret & More

Lip piercings present unique considerations due to their location and interaction with daily activities:

Vertical labret specifics:

• Length precision: Finding the right length is crucial—too long interferes with eating and speaking, too short can cause embedding
• End comfort: The bottom end contacts your teeth and gums, so smooth, appropriately sized ends are essential
• Material importance: The oral environment makes high-quality materials particularly important for biocompatibility
• Visibility factor: Both ends are visible, creating opportunities for creative expression

Other curved barbell applications:

• Christina piercings: Require specific curved barbells with appropriate length and end designs
• Bridge piercings: Though typically done with straight barbells, some anatomies benefit from a slight curve
• Custom surface piercings: Various surface piercings may use curved barbells depending on placement and angle

Where to Shop High-Quality Internally Threaded Barbells (Without Regret)

Finding genuine, high-quality internally threaded curved barbells requires knowing where to shop and what to look for.

The Risks of Low-Quality Jewelry

The market is flooded with inexpensive body jewelry that might look appealing but can cause serious problems:

Common issues with cheap jewelry:

• Unknown metal content: Many budget pieces contain undisclosed nickel, lead, or other potentially harmful metals
• Rough finishing: Poor manufacturing leaves rough edges that can irritate piercings
• Imprecise threading: Loose or poorly machined threads lead to ends that fall out or can't be removed properly
• Surface treatments: Instead of solid materials, cheap plating can chip, flake, or wear off inside your piercing
• False claims: Some sellers misrepresent material quality, calling items "surgical" or "implant grade" without certification

The consequences can range from minor irritation and jewelry failure to serious allergic reactions, infections, and even permanent scarring or rejected piercings.

Finding Reputable Sellers

To ensure you're getting authentic, body-safe jewelry:

Look for retailers that:

• Provide material certification: Reputable sellers specify exact materials (like "ASTM F-136 titanium")
• Partner with recognized manufacturers: Brands like Industrial Strength, Anatometal, and Neometal are known for quality
• Offer detailed product specifications: Full information about gauge, length, materials, and threading is provided
• Have transparent policies: Clear information about sterilization, returns, and customer support
• Show industry connections: Membership in organizations like the Association of Professional Piercers (APP)
• Have a solid reputation: Positive reviews specifically mentioning jewelry quality and authenticity

Pierced Addiction offers a trusted range of internally threaded curved barbells crafted from ASTM F-136 titanium and 18K gold—because your piercing deserves better. With 20 years of experience in the body jewelry industry, we understand the critical importance of quality materials and precise manufacturing in creating body jewelry that supports both healing and long-term wear.

FAQ: Internally Threaded Curved Barbells

Are internally threaded barbells better for new piercings?

Yes, absolutely. Internally threaded barbells are significantly better for new piercings because they have a smooth external surface that won't damage the fresh piercing channel during insertion or jewelry changes. External threads can cause micro-tears in healing tissue, potentially leading to increased pain, longer healing times, and higher risks of complications like scarring and migration. Professional piercers almost universally recommend internally threaded jewelry for initial piercings and healing periods.

What's the difference between a curved barbell and a circular one?

The primary difference is the shape and degree of curvature. Curved barbells have a gentle C-shaped arch with straight ends where the decorative pieces attach. Circular barbells (often called horseshoes) form a more pronounced U-shape, typically creating an incomplete circle of about 75-80% of a full circle. Curved barbells are ideal for piercings that follow a gentle contour like navels and eyebrows, while circular barbells work better for piercings where jewelry needs to create a more dramatic curve or where the ability to flip the jewelry is beneficial.

Can I change my jewelry at home if it's internally threaded?

Yes, you can change internally threaded jewelry at home once your piercing is fully healed, though the first change should ideally be done by a professional piercer. When changing at home, ensure your hands are clean, use internally threaded insertion pins if available, and have a good understanding of the threading direction (typically counterclockwise to loosen, clockwise to tighten). If you encounter resistance or pain, stop and consult a professional piercer rather than forcing it.

Do internally threaded barbells work for vertical lip piercings?

Yes, internally threaded curved barbells are excellent for vertical lip piercings. The smooth external surface is particularly important for lip piercings as the jewelry moves frequently during talking and eating. The curved shape follows the natural contour of the lip, and the ability to choose different end sizes allows for customization of the look. Typically, vertical labrets use 14G or 16G curved barbells with a length of approximately 10mm, though individual anatomy may require different specifications.

Is titanium or gold better for sensitive skin?

Both implant-grade titanium (ASTM F-136) and solid 18K gold are excellent choices for sensitive skin, with titanium generally being the safer option for extreme sensitivity. Titanium is virtually non-reactive, contains no nickel, and rarely causes allergic reactions even in people with multiple metal sensitivities. Solid 18K gold is also suitable for most people with sensitive skin, particularly nickel-free formulations, though it does contain small amounts of other metals in the alloy. If you have known metal allergies or extremely sensitive skin, titanium is typically the recommended first choice.

Your Piercing Deserves Better—Go Internally Threaded for Real Comfort

When it comes to body jewelry, especially for curved barbell placements like navels, eyebrows, and lip piercings, the quality of your jewelry isn't just about aesthetics—it's about your health, comfort, and the longevity of your piercing.

Internally threaded curved barbells represent the professional standard in body jewelry for good reason. Their smooth, injury-preventing design supports healthy healing and comfortable daily wear. The precision engineering creates secure connections that won't leave you searching for lost ends or dealing with irritated piercings. And the higher manufacturing standards mean you'll enjoy jewelry that looks better and lasts longer.

While quality internally threaded jewelry typically costs more upfront than externally threaded or mystery-metal alternatives, the investment pays dividends in reduced complications, greater comfort, and jewelry that stands the test of time. Your body deserves implant-grade materials and thoughtful design—especially for piercings you plan to enjoy for years to come.

Whether your style leans toward minimalist titanium simplicity or elaborate gemmed designs, there's internally threaded curved barbell jewelry that perfectly expresses your aesthetic while respecting your body's need for safe, compatible materials.

Upgrade your jewelry game today with internally threaded curved barbells built for comfort, healing, and next-level style. Pierced Addiction's curated collection brings you the perfect combination of safety and self-expression, backed by two decades of body jewelry expertise.