Metal sensitivity is considered a disorder of the immune system where the skin is irritated by metals like jewellery,. It is a common condition that affects 10% to 15% of the population. It can produce a variety of symptoms, including rashes, swelling, or pain due to contact with certain metals (MedBroadcast.com).
The most common metal people are allergic to is nickel. Nickel is a natural hard, silvery-white metal, and it is often mixed with other metals. Contact with jewellery containing nickel causes an itchy rash and possibly blisters at the site of contact. The skin reacts when it has been exposed for a period of 24 hours or more, especially with rings.
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What metals are safe if you have sensitive skin?
1.Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% by weight of silver and 7.5% by weight of other metals, usually copper. Pure sterling silver is too soft to mold into complex jewellery designs. Sterling silver is an affordable precious metal, it is durable and is usually 100% hypoallergenic metal. In some instances, nickel can be one of the components in sterling silver so when making a purchase ensure to ask if the item is nickel free. All our sterling silver rings are nickel free.
2.Tungsten Carbide Rings
If you have any metal allergies, be assured it won’t happen with tungsten as long as it’s nickel free. It will never bend and is perfect for those who love heavy metals. Tungsten is also scratch resistant and requires little maintenance. It’s only downside is revealed when it sustains a fall from a height, it could crack or break due to its hardness. Most couples choose tungsten bands to symbolize the strength of their love and commitment.
3.Gold
Gold is one of the oldest, most adored metals that has been known to symbolise wealth. In its pure form, it is a bright, slightly reddish yellow, dense, and soft. It has three alloys: yellow, white and rose gold and is measured in karats. Karat is the measure of the purity of gold. To view our gold collection, please visit our website: www.eternaljewelleryz.com
Top Tips:
- Avoid strong beauty care products, they may react with the metal and cause a skin reaction. Use gentle products like handmade natural soaps. For example: https://www.facebook.com/baobabswirls/
- Avoid plated rings.
- Use the right products to clean your rings and have your ring cleaned professionally at least twice a year. Eternal Jewellery offers 2 FREE polishes in a year under the warranty and to benefit from this service the receipt must be presented.
NOTE: A rash caused by a nickel allergy can be treated with antihistamines. There is no cure for an allergy to metals. The best way to prevent a reaction is to avoid the allergen.
We hope you found this article helpful, it’s important to note that a metal allergy can develop unexpectedly. If you suspect you may have a metal allergy, when making a jewellery purchase always ask if the jewellery is nickel free and ask for further advice on your choices.
