How to Avoid Allergies with Jewelry: A Complete Guide

Jewelry can be a beautiful accessory that adds a touch of style and elegance to any outfit. However, for some people, wearing jewelry can cause unpleasant allergic reactions. These reactions are often caused by specific materials found in jewelry. Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid these allergies while still enjoying your favorite accessories.

Understanding the Causes of Jewelry Allergies

Jewelry allergies are primarily caused by a skin reaction to certain metals. Nickel is the main culprit, but other metals like cobalt and chromium can also cause allergic reactions. These reactions usually manifest with symptoms such as redness, itching, rashes, and blisters.

Choosing the Right Materials

Opt for Hypoallergenic Metals:

• 18-karat gold or higher: High-quality gold is generally pure and contains less nickel.

• Sterling silver: Sterling silver is an alloy made of 92.5% pure silver, often mixed with copper, which reduces the risk of allergies.

• Titanium and Platinum: These metals are not only hypoallergenic but also very durable.

• Surgical stainless steel: Used in medicine, it is designed to minimize allergic reactions.

At Lidiar Collection, for example, we offer a majority of jewelry in surgical stainless steel, therefore hypoallergenic and nickel-free, such as the Wurus earrings.

Avoid Plated Jewelry:

Plated jewelry often contains layers of allergenic metals beneath its exterior surface. Over time, these layers can wear away, exposing the skin to allergenic metals.

Jewelry Care and Hygiene

Clean Your Jewelry Regularly:

• Dirt, sweat and cosmetic residue can build up on jewelry and cause irritation. Clean your jewelry with a soft cloth and soapy water.

Avoid Wearing Jewelry 24/7:

• Remove your jewelry before sleeping, showering, or exercising. This allows your skin to breathe and reduces the risk of irritation.

Apply a Protective Varnish:

• For costume jewelry that you don't want to give up, you can apply a coat of transparent nail polish to the parts in contact with your skin. This creates a barrier between your skin and the allergenic metal.

You can also refer to our maintenance guide for your jewelry

Recognizing the Signs of an Allergic Reaction

Be alert for early signs of allergy. If you notice redness, itching, or swelling, remove the offending jewelry immediately. Consulting a dermatologist may be necessary to determine the exact cause of the allergy and obtain appropriate medical advice.

Alternatives to Metal Jewelry

Plastic or Silicone Jewelry:

Ideal for people with high metal sensitivities, they come in a variety of styles and colors.

Jewelry in Wood or Stone:

These natural materials are generally well tolerated by sensitive skin and offer a unique aesthetic.

Jewelry allergies don't mean you have to forgo accessories. By choosing materials wisely, caring for your jewelry properly, and being alert to signs of allergic reactions, you can continue to enjoy your jewelry without discomfort. Remember that every skin is unique, so it may be necessary to experiment to find the materials and solutions that work best for you.