Thriving Despite a Nickel Allergy
It has happened to everyone who struggles with a sensitivity to nickel. You receive a lovely gift. Exactly what you hoped for. In your hand you hold a small square box, brightly wrapped, and topped with a bow. The sound of ripping wrapping paper adds to the excitement that fills the air. You tug open the box to reveal a flash of metal and the shimmer of crystal or stone. You can’t wait to slip these bright and shiny earrings on.
Maybe you run to the closest mirror to change your earrings. If you have more self-control you may wait until you are wearing the perfect outfit for this new accessory. Either way, the experience begins with a flash of confidence and an appreciation for the beauty of this sweet little gift. No doubt you shoot a bright smile to your reflection as you take one last look in the mirror appreciating how this new treasure accentuates your outfit.
Unfortunately, by the day’s end you have taken your earrings out. Those dazzling little jewels have left your earlobes itchy and red. This is the unfortunate experience those of use who suffer from a nickel allergy repeat again and again.
What is a Nickel Allergy?
When a person with a nickel allergy wears jewelry that contains nickel, their immune system begins to produce the hormone histamine. This occurs because the person’s body believes it is under attack. People with a nickel allergy may experience:
- A rash
- Dry patches on the skin that resemble a burn
- Itching
- A reddening of the skin that came into contact with the metal
- Blisters
Finding a Solution to Your Nickel Allergy
Many of us that live with nickel allergies understand that our allergic reactions can be treated with antihistamines and creams. However, one of the best ways to deal with a nickel allergy is to avoid the things that cause a reaction. This can mean avoiding things that those without these sensitivities would never think about.
People with a sensitivity to nickel may find that they have to avoid clothes with snaps, rivets, and fasteners made from metals. They may find that they have to buy eyeglass frames made from titanium or plastic. They will also need to buy jewelry made with high quality metals or medical-grade plastic or medical titanium. You will also need to be cautious when having piercings or tattoos done.
What jewelry can I wear if I have a nickel allergy?
People who react negatively to metals with nickel in them can expect to tolerate jewelry made from high end metals, medical-grade plastic, and medical grade titanium. Many people limit themselves to a few pieces of jewelry as they react to a wide variety of metals.
People who struggle with nickel allergies often have no negative reaction to 14-18 karat gold and sterling silver. However, at a certain point, even those metals trigger an allergic reaction. At this point, medical grade materials are the only option. Fortunately, there are creative jewelry manufacturers like Blomdahl who provide a wide array of jewelry choices in medical-grade titanium. If you haven’t tried medical-grade titanium before, you can expect to have a surprising experience. Blomdahl’s medical-grade titanium earrings, for example, are exceptionally comfortable as well as stylish.
For an even more cost-efficient option, you may wish to try Blomdahl’s medical plastic earrings. This material is truly 0% metal. The medical benefits, from an allergy perspective, are ideal for those suffering from advanced nickel allergy.