If your ears itch after trying out new earrings, it may be due to metal allergies. Nickel allergies are particularly likely as this component can be found in many alloys including gold and silver alloys.
For optimal ear protection, choose hypoallergenic earrings made of sterling silver or 18k gold, surgical steel titanium or other pure metals such as surgical steel titanium (if surgical steel titanium causes issues). Rhodium plating could potentially cause reactions when it wears off over time.
Hypoallergenic
Many jewellery pieces are constructed using metal alloys, since pure gold and silver are both soft metals, so jewellers often combine them with other metals to produce earrings that are both strong and beautiful. Unfortunately, some alloys contain allergenic metals – for instance brass can cause skin irritation due to being an alloy composed of copper and zinc which wears off over time, exposing the alloy directly.
To avoid these problems, opt for hypoallergenic earrings made of precious metals like solid gold and sterling silver, titanium or surgical steel as safe materials, or simple studs and bold hoops – they all make for safe options!
Nickel-free
An elegant pair of earrings can add just the right finishing touch to an ensemble, but if they cause itching or rashes in your earlobes, they won’t make an appearance again. This could be caused by various factors including piercing guns (although they aren’t the sole culprit), metal allergies and even bacteria infections.
Nickel is one of the most reactive metals, commonly found in jewellery, cell phone chargers, coins, zippers and belt buckles. Your skin can become sensitised to nickel within 12 hours after exposure resulting in dry red patches of skin or an itchy rash.
Opting for nickel-free earrings will help to mitigate these symptoms by eliminating their source: metal. You can find hypoallergenic earrings made of surgical-grade stainless steel, titanium or high-quality gold to alleviate their presence.
Titanium
Titanium is an extremely strong yet lightweight metal that looks similar to platinum. It doesn’t irritate sensitive skin, making it the ideal material for earrings as gemstones stay securely held without poking through earlobes. However, be careful of nickel-plated titanium pieces; some individuals can have allergic reactions when exposed.
Titanium, platinum or medical-grade plastic are your best choices to avoid metal allergies in piercings. Since these materials do not contain nickel alloys that could irritate piercings.
Numerous studs and hoops made from pure titanium can be beneficial for those with metal sensitivities or allergies, making these earrings suitable for people. When searching, look for earrings marked “PURE TITANIUM” or “MEDICAL GRADE TITANIUM,” while avoid those labeled as “Titanium Steel,” as this term can often be misrepresented as stainless steel.
Surgical steel
Surgical stainless steel post earrings are an ideal choice for anyone allergic to nickel. Not only are they sturdy and long-wearing, they’re also easy to keep clean. Ideal for initial piercings as well as healed ones; plus they’re less likely to cause irritation than other metals.
Surgical steel is a type of stainless steel commonly found in medical tools and implants due to its high chromium content, making it highly rustproof, durable and hypoallergenic – perfect for jewellery making! Attractively priced too, making Surgical steel an attractive option for those with sensitive skin or allergies to metal. Plus it comes in different styles to fit every taste!
Gold
Gold earrings are an effective way to prevent infection as their nonreactive nature makes healing much faster than other materials, making it the go-to choice for fresh piercings.
Nickel allergies are among the most frequent reactions caused by jewellery-related skin reactions, although other metals such as copper and cobalt may also elicit reactions in sensitive individuals. You should steer clear of all plated metals such as rolled gold and vermeil as these typically contain base metals that irritate sensitive skin.
Vaseline can help protect against allergies caused by metal earrings by acting as a barrier between them and your skin, providing another option are medical plastic earrings designed for children’s safety – our selection of hypoallergenic earrings offers these options and more!
