Skin Sensitivity and Jewellery Metals Explained

Many people have had a ring or earring leave a red, itchy patch. The reason is usually the metal, and sometimes a build-up beneath the piece. This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have a skin problem, speak to a doctor.

What causes a reaction

A common cause is an allergy to nickel, a metal used in some alloys. It can cause itching and redness where the metal touches the skin. Other causes include irritation from soap or moisture trapped under a ring, and sensitivity to other metals.

Where nickel might appear in jewellery

• Fashion jewellery: often contains nickel, which is a frequent cause of reactions.
• Some white gold: certain white gold alloys include nickel to give them their colour. Others use palladium instead.
• Low-karat gold: gold with a higher share of other metals has more chance of containing something that irritates.

Higher-karat gold has more gold and less alloy, and pure metals such as platinum are less likely to cause reactions. See why jewellery is not pure gold.

What to ask when you buy

1. What is the composition of the alloy? Ask whether it contains nickel.
2. What is the white gold made with? Nickel-based or palladium-based?
3. Are the earring posts and nose pin posts made from the same metal? The post touches your skin the most.
4. Is the piece plated? Plating can wear, exposing the metal underneath.

Options for sensitive skin

• Platinum 950: mostly platinum, commonly chosen by people who react to other metals. See platinum 950 jewellery.
• Yellow or rose gold in higher karat: 18K or 22K are often tolerated, though the other metals in the alloy matter.
• Palladium-based white gold: an alternative to nickel-based white gold.

No metal is certain to suit everyone, so try pieces and see.

Test, do not assume

If you suspect a reaction, wear the piece for short periods and watch your skin. If you get redness or itching, stop wearing it. A doctor or dermatologist can test for specific allergies.

Reduce irritation

• Keep skin and jewellery clean and dry. Trapped moisture and soap can cause irritation.
• Remove rings when washing hands, and dry them.
• Do not wear earrings or nose pins that are too tight.
• Take jewellery off at night if it irritates.
• Follow the advice of your piercer and doctor for new piercings.

Rings and tight spots

Rubbing can cause a rash that is not a metal allergy. A looser fit and a regular clean can help.

Jewellery for new piercings

New piercings need the right metal. Follow your piercer's guidance, and avoid swapping jewellery until it has healed.

Common questions

Can I develop an allergy later in life? Yes, sensitivity can develop over time.

Is 18K gold safe for sensitive skin? Many people tolerate it, but it depends on the alloy and the person.

Is white gold more likely to cause a reaction? It can be, if the alloy contains nickel. Ask what it is made with.

Choose with care

If you have sensitive skin, tell us when you book an appointment, and we can talk through the options, or look at our range of platinum pieces. See also platinum vs white gold for diamond rings.