The higher the number, the thinner the post. Nose piercing is usually done with an 18 gauge (1.02mm) post. After a nose piercing heals, most people switch to a 20 gauge (. 81mm) post because it is thinner and leaves a smaller hole.
Regarding this, is a 20 gauge nose ring big?
The standard size for a nose ring, 20 gauge jewelry is what you’ll find most nose studs and hoops come in. This is the smallest size gauge of body jewelry that’s commonly used compared to other body jewelry like earrings and belly button piercings.