But WHY Is Metal Choice So Important for Pierced Earrings?
Ear piercing has been popular for centuries and is one of the most widely accepted forms of body adornment around the globe. In the US, statistics from 2017 show that 83% of us have pierced ears. But even those who make the decision not to get their ears pierced know that the choice of metals is important. Is this choice based on cost alone or is there more to it? Let’s take a look why metal choice is so important for pierced earrings.
For many people, this will be the only time they allow their skin to be pierced intentionally. And because of this, there is no way to know how their skin will react to the earrings before it is done. Our bodies usually accept this process well. When done in a sterile environment like a doctor’s office, it is safe and relatively painless. The follow up care is clearly outlined. And most of the time, there are no complications at all. But what about that small number of times when things go awry? You want to make sure you don’t fall into that category right from the beginning. Is that possible?
For the most part, yes. The choice of metal used for the earrings is one of the best ways to eliminate as much risk as possible. Just a little research before heading off for the piercing can lessen the chances of any adverse reactions. Contact dermatitis is the most common reaction to a metal being placed in an opening in the skin. A rash, fluid discharge, redness, itchiness are the most common signs. Why does this happen, though?
It turns out that the human body often doesn’t react well to nickel. This can happen from earrings, necklaces, watches, and even belt buckles. And an allergic reaction to nickel can happen any time during a person’s life, even when there were no symptoms before. It’s probably genetic, but why take the chance it will be you, either today or ten years from now? And many earrings have nickel in them; experts say we should assume that most metal jewelry has some amount of nickel, even gold jewelry. What are you to do then in order to stay safe yet still wear beautiful jewelry?
There are some choices that are now available to combat this problem. Medical grade titanium is the most hypoallergenic metal available, as well as the safest because it contains no nickel. It is resistant to body fluids and tissue and is completely biocompatible. And the earrings manufactured from titanium today are available in natural, black, and silver and will allow wearers to shine and sparkle every day.
Another choice that won’t lead to uncomfortable surprises is medical-grade plastic earrings, an especially great choice for young children and even babies. They are strong and light, and come in many beautiful styles.
Having pierced ears can be a cultural choice, a rite of passage, or simply a personal way to expand your jewelry wardrobe. In any case, there is no reason to take risks with your health as you pick out those earrings. And now you know why metal choice is so important for pierced earrings.