Metal Allergies: Causes, Trigger Metals & Material Risks Explained
Introduction
For many people, concerns about metal allergies have existed for a long time when choosing jewelry.
As someone personally prone to metal allergies myself, I have often experienced itching, redness, swelling, and even blistering when wearing earrings.
That’s exactly why, at SMUK, we are fully committed to selecting safe materials, and I’ve written this guide to help you better understand metal allergies and make jewelry choices with confidence.
What is Metal Allergy?
Metal allergy occurs when metal ions dissolve from jewelry through contact with sweat and skin oils, penetrating the skin and triggering an immune response.
Symptoms include itchiness, redness, swelling, fluid discharge, and significant discomfort.
Not everyone develops metal allergies, but it greatly depends on individual body sensitivity and immune system reactions.
Main Trigger Metals for Metal Allergy
| Metal | Allergy Risk | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nickel | Very High | The most common trigger. Many people react. (Common in cheap plating, fashion jewelry, buttons, watch parts, etc.) |
| Cobalt | High | Often reacts similarly to nickel. (Found in alloy plating, magnets, some medical devices, etc.) |
| Chromium | Moderately High | Found in watchbands and industrial plating. (Common in stainless steel, tools, auto parts, etc.) |
| Copper / Brass | Medium | Easily oxidizes and develops green patina with long-term use. (Used in lower-cost jewelry and accessory parts.) |
| Stainless Steel (including surgical grade) | Certain Risk | Contains iron, nickel, and chromium. More stable but not completely allergy-free. (Found in kitchenware, basic medical consumables, daily goods, earring posts, watch bands, etc.) |
| Platinum / Gold (high purity) | Very Low | The higher the purity, the lower the allergy risk. |
| Silver 925 | Low | Nickel and cobalt-free, generally safe. Rare individual sensitivities may exist. |
Why SMUK Chooses 925 Sterling Silver
- No allergenic metals like nickel, cobalt, or chromium used in the base.
- Simple composition: 92.5% silver with mainly copper as the balance.
- Oxidation may cause tarnish, but it’s unrelated to allergic reactions.
Also, tarnish can be easily restored using a silver polishing cloth. - Inherently gentle on the skin, even for sensitive individuals.
Plating and Allergy Risk
At SMUK, we use only:
- Rhodium Plating
- 14K White Gold Plating
- 18K Yellow Gold Plating
These plating options are generally low risk for allergies, but rare sensitivities may occur depending on individual body chemistry.
We have encountered one customer who reacted to platinum plating. In such cases, consulting a dermatologist is recommended.
Why Base Material Is Critical
- Some jewelry uses brass or alloy as the base, only covered by plating.
- Once plating wears off, allergenic metals may be exposed.
- SMUK uses solid 925 sterling silver as the core for all products, so even if plating wears down, the base remains allergy-friendly.
For Customers Concerned About Metal Allergies
- If you have experienced any previous reactions, please consult a dermatologist.
- SMUK carefully selects allergy-conscious materials and clearly labels product pages with “Metal Allergy Friendly.”
Summary
- Metal allergy sensitivity varies by individual.
- Nickel, cobalt, and chromium are key triggers.
- 925 sterling silver is a relatively safe material.
- Stainless steel contains allergenic metals and is not completely risk-free.
- SMUK uses 925 silver with carefully selected, allergy-friendly plating.
- Consult a specialist if you have concerns.
Related Links
Want to learn more about materials used in SMUK jewelry? Check out these articles:
- Why Choose Silver 925 – Jewelry in Harmony with Nature
- What is Gold Vermeil?
- Does Silver 925 Tarnish? Causes and How to Clean It
- Silver 925 vs Surgical Stainless Steel – What's the Difference?
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If you’re interested in SMUK jewelry, feel free to explore our product collections:
