The hypoallergenic jewelry they are special for people with sensitivity to certain types of metals, a very common problem that many people experience when wearing jewelry. This is a condition that can manifest itself through redness, rashes, itching, rashes and more. Symptoms that can occur in any part of the body and to which we must be attentive. Above all, if we are people with sensitive skin or suffer from any allergies.
For this reason and in order not to deprive people of wearing jewelry, today many jewelers use hypoallergenic metals. However, there may be some confusion about this term. And also that some of us wonder what exactly hypoallergenic means? Does it mean nickel free? What metals are safe to use?
So, to shed some light on the subject, we will provide information, which will serve to answer these and other questions, about what exactly the hypoallergenic jewelry.
What is behind hypoallergenic jewelry?
To answer this question, it is first necessary to clarify the following terms:
Hypoallergenic
Currently this term has gained great popularity among metals used in jewelry for being safe for use. Since they are metals «that have a low risk of causing allergic reactions». And most importantly, they apparently do not contain the biggest cause of jewelry allergies, nickel.
What is nickel?
This is a white metal that is generally used in the manufacture of metal alloys, to add strength and color to metals. However, it is a material to which approximately 15% of people are allergic. Therefore, sometimes the terms «nickel-free» and «hypoallergenic» seem synonymous and are often used interchangeably.
However, nickel is not the only material that causes jewelry allergies. Well, there are people who may be allergic to copper or bronze jewelry, and even to silver or gold jewelry. These last two are hypoallergenic materials, but in their purest state they cannot be used for making jewelry, because they are soft metals. Which means they must be combined with other metals to alter their hardness, durability, and color.
This is how most of the metals described as hypoallergenic contain traces of nickel to improve their properties. Therefore, hypoallergenic does not mean nickel free. But, that the amount of this is found below normal either slightly allergenic and consequently cannot cause problems. In fact, the percentage is so minuscule that it requires very sensitive instruments to measure it.
Having said this, in jewelry the term hypoallergenic does not have a medical or legal definition. So anyone can use the term hypoallergenic and there would be no way to regulate the quality of the metal.
What is the best way to wear hypoallergenic jewelry?
Instead of looking for those metals marked as hypoallergenic, when buying hypoallergenic jewelry, it is best to look for specific and safe metals. So, it is best to know which materials to avoid and which are hypoallergenic. In order to choose attractive jewelry and accessories without fear of having an allergic reaction.
In general, the higher the purity of the metal, the less likely it is to cause allergies. For example, some people may be allergic to 14K gold, which is 58.3% gold. But they have no problem wearing jewelry with 18K gold (75% gold).
Likewise, it must be considered that different people may also have allergies to different metals. And therefore there is no metal that suits all, but what is certain is that the metals named below tend to cause fewer problems:
Metals that are safe to use
1. Platinum
Platinum jewelry is crafted and created to high purity levels, which are generally higher than gold. Thus, it is very safe to use. For example, 90-95% pure platinum is used compared 37.5 and 75%, of 9 and 18 carat gold, respectively.
two. Niobium
It is not an alloy but a soft, malleable, low-toxic element that is resistant to corrosion. But it also does not contain nickel and is one of the most inert metals, so it is very safe and ideal for hypoallergenic jewelry. On the other hand, it also does not tarnish, is very durable and can be anodized to other colors resulting in beautiful iridescent colors.
3. Titanium
Like niobium, titanium is also an element, specifically an incredibly corrosion-resistant, highly durable, inexpensive, and lightweight metal. It is also the most inert metal, which means that it is also the most hypoallergenic material to create jewelry.
Four. 18K yellow gold and rose gold and above
Yellow gold and rose gold alloys are mixed with copper and silver, all of which are safe metals.
5. Surgical stainless steel:
Stainless steel is the most popular metal used to make hypoallergenic jewelry. Since it is a material that does not oxidize, it does not darken over time, it does not present alterations in its tonality and brightness. And best of all, it’s anti-allergy. Although it may contain small amounts of nickel, the amount it does have is residual, so it rarely causes allergies.
6. Argentium Silver
Argentium Silver is 100% nickel free, which means that it does not represent any risk for people with metal sensitivities. It is the whitest metal, durable, highly resistant to scratching and tarnishing. Plus, Argentium silver is made from only recycled silver, so it’s also an eco-friendly choice.
What materials should we avoid?
1. White gold
While currently platinum is used in white gold alloys instead of nickel. This type of gold generally contains nickel in its composition, which is added to improve whiteness and durability. Additionally, these jewels use a rhodium plating, which can prevent nickel from coming into contact with your skin. But, when it wears off, it is likely to react with the wearer’s skin.
two. german silver
Alpaca, as it is also known, is one of the most sought-after materials in jewelry thanks to its Argentine white color. But it’s not silver at all, it’s called that because it looks like silver. Specifically it is a fancy name given to an alloy of copper, nickel, zinc and some tin. So we should avoid it especially if we are sensitive to nickel.
3. Imitation jewelry
Cheap jewelry mostly uses non-precious metals plated with gold or silver. One of the base metals being nickel, which is generally used as a filler. That is why, generally, when metal comes into contact with your skin, it can cause irritation.
Is sterling silver hypoallergenic?
Most people can safely wear sterling silver if it is of good quality. Although some may be allergic to silver or copper, but this is usually very rare. Sterling silver does not usually contain nickel, but rather pure silver (92.5%) and copper (7.5%) or other metals such as zinc. So to be safe, only buy from reputable vendors.
The brass ands hypoallergenic?
No, this material is not hypoallergenic and can cause allergic reactions. Since, it is made by an alloy of copper and zinc, but sometimes nickel is usually included in the mixture.
However, one detail to consider is that brass can turn the skin green. But that doesn’t mean it’s harmful or that we have an allergic reaction to the metal. It’s just the copper chelates that interact with the sweat on your skin.
In short, the next time you want to buy jewelry and see the label “hypoallergenic” in a jewel It is advisable to ask why it is hypoallergenic and if it is really safe to use them. While, in the case of jewelry, it is most likely some kind of coating, which over time will leave your skin exposed to possible allergic reactions. Therefore, if it is within your means, it is advisable to opt for purer metals, which are safe and friendly to your skin.