Can you be allergic to jewelry?

From our video partners

Allergies
Health videos on seasonal allergies, including allergy treatment options.

tibeten silver is made with a copper alloy, so this may be an answer for people who have a sensitivity to silver with a nickle alloy.

Answer

A person with a contact allergy will often notice redness, itching or swelling when any part of the skin comes in contact with a substance to which they are sensitive. The skin may form blisters that later break. Clothing, blankets, carpeting and upholstry, or jewelry are common culprits.

Jewelry often contains nickel as part of alloy or in electroplating. Wearing no jewelry or only jewelry of 18 carat gold may help. Also watch for buttons and other fasteners that may contain metal. Be aware of keys, kitchen utensils, tools, door knobs, and other metal objects. Look for clothing with non-metal fasteners, or coat the parts that may touch the skin with clear nail polish or other covering. Buy tools and utensils that have handles of wood, plastic, stainless steel, or aluminum.

Answer

Definitely, you can be allergic to your jewelry. Nickel allergies are quite common. Unless you are wearing pure gold, titanium, platinum, or silver - chances are that alloy has been mixed with nickel. STERLING silver is not to be trusted, even gold in LOW CARATS can cause a reaction. You might notice the red, burning or itching skin under your jewelry looks/feels worse after a shower, exercise, or in hot weather. Sweat and humidity will open your pores and increase the level of physical contact between your skin and the offending material. Ears, the inside of your wrist, and the sides of your neck are most sensitive. Clear nail polish can help (if you are not allergic to it). But, it wears off quickly.

First answer by anonymous. Last edit by Claypotr. Contributor trust: 85 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 189 [recommend question]