Metal allergies are real coming to the piercing jewellery, and many suffer from the hands of it. It causes skin allergies and unwanted complications. So what exactly is this, and how can this be avoided for a safe and comfortable piercing experience? We have some helpful information for you to get basic metal allergy knowledge.
What’s the Deal with Hidden Metals?
You know how sometimes you put on a new arrival piercing jewellery design, and suddenly your skin is screaming bloody murder? That’s probably because of hidden metals. These are the metals that fly under the radar, are not listed on the label, and can wreak any sensitive skin.
Nickel: It’s everywhere and can greatly damage your skin. Nickel doesn’t always come clean about its presence in your jewellery.
Copper: Now, you might think copper is all cool and trendy, but for some of us, it can cause allergies. Even though it’s not as common as nickel, copper can still stir up some serious skin damage.
Brass and Bronze: They might look all shiny and fancy but often contain other metals like nickel and zinc, making them a nightmare for sensitive skin.
Allergies or Infections
Allergic reactions usually show up pretty soon after you get pierced. But even if you’re not allergic, your body might still try to kick out the jewellery during the healing process.
This can take a few days or even a couple of weeks, and it might look infected, but not as extreme as an allergic reaction.
Watch out for stuff like rashes, bumps, blisters, or super itchy skin. These aren’t normal.
Nobody really knows why some people have allergies to certain metals. It could be from being exposed to them too much, or it might just be in our genes. Sometimes, people think they’re allergic to a metal, but they’ve never actually been tested for it.
Doctors sometimes say it could be an allergy or an infection, leaving you scratching your head.
How to Spot Metals
The key is to always read the label and do your research. Look for jewellery that’s labelled as hypoallergenic or specifically designed for sensitive skin. And if in doubt, just ask. Most reputable jewellery brands are more than happy to spill the beans on what’s in it.
How to Avoid Allergic Reactions?
So, what can you do to prevent allergic reactions and keep your piercings happy? Here are some tips and tricks:
Choose hypoallergenic materials: Buy jewellery made from hypoallergenic materials such as titanium, surgical stainless steel, and niobium, which are suitable for every skin and are less likely to cause any unwanted irritation.
Keep your piercings clean: Clean your piercings regularly with a saline solution (a simple mix of salt and water). You can also practice applying gentle soap to remove dirt or bacteria. It will help to exacerbate irritation.
Listen to your body: If you notice any signs of redness, proper swelling, or itching, remove the offending jewellery immediately and give your skin time to heal.
How Purity of Metal Helps?
It’s all about purity when it comes to piercing jewellery. Even pure gold isn’t 100% gold. It’s mixed with other metals like nickel for strength and sparkle. So, if you rock lower karat gold or surgical steel that’s not nickel-free, chances are you’re in the clear.
But hold up, it’s not just about looks; it’s about what’s safe for your body, too! Body piercing jewellery is crafted from special alloys to keep you comfy and stylish. But since we can’t see what’s in them, independent testing organizations step in to make sure they’re top-notch.
Sometimes, a lot of mall jewellery might not meet these standards. That’s why it’s key to shop smart and hit up reputable sources for your jewellery fix.
Metal allergies can be a real pain when it comes to piercing jewellery, causing discomfort and confusion. But don’t worry! With some know-how, you can ensure a safe and comfy piercing experience.
Choose hypoallergenic materials, keep things clean, and pay attention to your body. Opt for high-quality body piercing jewellery to prevent irritation and keep your style on point.