Having sensitive skin can stop you from wearing your favourite perfume, makeup, or using products that could trigger a flare-up. However, those with skin issues may also be restricted in what kind of jewellery they can wear. Earrings can result in itchy, inflamed and sore lobes, while others may find that wearing a ring made from a particular type of metal causes discomfort. The word ‘hypoallergenic’ is frequently used in jewellery, but what does it really mean?
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at hypoallergenic jewellery, what it is (and what it isn’t), the types of sensitivities it can trigger, and what can cause a reaction. We’ll explore the various types of jewellery suitable for sensitive skin and provide you with a few top tips for selecting jewellery that’s gentle on your skin.
Note to readers: nothing in this article should be construed as constituting medical advice – if you think you have an allergy or other medical condition related to jewellery, you should seek advice from an appropriately qualified medical practitioner.
If you thought those gorgeous earrings were out of reach because of the reaction they trigger, we may have some solutions. We’ll also answer some of your FAQs so you can make an informed choice and enjoy wearing jewellery without the flare-ups.
What is hypoallergenic jewellery?
Let’s start by defining precisely what hypoallergenic jewellery is. When we talk about jewellery described explicitly as ‘hypoallergenic’, it means that there is a reduced likelihood of the piece causing an allergic reaction to any elements within its makeup (primarily nickel and cadmium).
However, it does not mean that it is completely safe and allergy-proof. Indeed, many cheaper components on the market may be marketed as hypoallergenic but may, in fact, contain levels of metals like nickel that can cause a reaction in anyone with sensitive skin. So while it may reduce the chances of a response, a hypoallergenic label does not guarantee you’ll be okay, even if you’ve worn that kind of jewellery for years. A variety of factors will dictate how you react to jewellery, including your level of sensitivity, the duration of wear, and the contact point (such as an earlobe or cartilage ear piercing).
How does hypoallergenic jewellery differ from regular jewellery?
There are several ways in which this jewellery differs from regular items, especially earrings. Primarily, the metallic composition differs, with specific metals and materials selected that are known to reduce the likelihood of an allergic reaction. Remember, hypoallergenic doesn’t mean allergy-free; it merely means the chances of a response are lower.
The metal purity, especially with precious metals such as gold, platinum, and silver, also plays a significant role. For example, if a piece of jewellery is made from 9-carat gold, it has a higher percentage of additional metals than 18-carat gold, which has a higher purity level.
An additional coating may be included in hypoallergenic jewellery that creates a barrier between the skin and the metal or material. While this barrier can help prevent a reaction, it may wear off over time, exposing the skin to the alloy or material underneath. So a pair of earrings with a hypoallergenic coating may be fine for a while, but those with sensitive skin may find that eventually, as the coating degrades, they suffer a reaction.
Jewellery for sensitive skin may also be clearly marked as such, something that regular jewellery rarely includes. However, if you’re unsure whether a piece of jewellery would be suitable, you can always ask the retailer for details about the components used and whether they are hypoallergenic. A trustworthy retailer will be as honest as possible, as no retailer wants to sell you a piece of jewellery that may cause a health condition.
What’s the problem?
The issue that some people have with non-hypoallergenic jewellery is that certain products, including both metal and non-metal materials, can cause a reaction. When the body detects a substance it thinks is a threat, it triggers an immune response, mistakenly identifying a seemingly harmless piece of jewellery as a physical attack. This reaction happens at the molecular level, where ions from the metal bind to proteins in the skin.
Unlike an immune reaction from an ingested allergen (such as peanuts or other foods), this contact reaction can take much longer to manifest, which is why people who have had no issues wearing a specific piece of jewellery for years may suddenly become sensitive and develop a sore, itchy or painful rash. Others who are more prone to sensitivity may react straight away, with the reaction continuing even after the jewellery has been removed.
What causes the reaction?
The primary culprits are certain metals that trigger an immune response, specifically nickel, cobalt, and chromium. Of the three, nickel is by far the most common and is regularly found in cheaper jewellery and low-quality components such as earring wires and posts.
Other metals that can cause reactions include copper, which tends to turn the skin a green colour, and zinc. It is rare to have an allergic reaction to precious metals such as gold, but this will depend on the quality of the material and whether it contains a certain amount of other elements to add strength.
Some man-made products, such as epoxy or UV resin, can cause a certain level of sensitivity in some people. While it’s not common, resin sensitivity can cause an unpleasant reaction even after the resin is fully cured and is no longer degassing.
Common reactions to non-hypoallergenic jewellery
Non-hypoallergenic jewellery can trigger various immune responses in sensitive individuals.
The first indication that something may be amiss is an itchy or burning sensation at the point of contact. For earrings, this will be the piercing itself, whether that’s a skin or cartilage piercing (depending on the location on or in the ear). This is the signal that the body has identified what it regards to be a threat and is reacting to the ions from the metal bonding with proteins on the skin.
The itchy sensation is the precursor to the next stage, an angry, red rash that starts at the immediate contact point and can then radiate outward as the reactive material remains in contact with the skin. This rash can last well after the item has been removed, sometimes for days. The affected area may also swell and feel uncomfortable. If this happens, the best thing to do is to avoid wearing any jewellery in or around the affected area.
If the reaction is to a new piercing, it may be prudent to visit the artist to check for any potential infection that may require more stringent treatment, such as antibiotics. They may also be able to recommend a suitable hypoallergenic alternative to prevent the piercing from closing up.
In some more serious cases, non-hypoallergenic jewellery can cause contact dermatitis, a skin condition that may require treatment with topical creams prescribed by your GP.
And now the good news
Thanks to a greater understanding of sensitivity and how people react to certain materials, there have been considerable advances in the development of hypoallergenic jewellery metals and products. Let’s take a closer look at some of the current options.
The benefits
Our top tips for finding and using jewellery that’s kind to sensitive skin
Storing your jewellery
Store your jewellery in individual pouches or boxes to prevent tangling or damage, and keep it in a cool, dry place. Our top tip: Pop a silica gel pouch into your jewellery box to ensure no moisture can encourage the growth of bacteria. Avoid leaving your jewellery in direct sunlight or near chemicals that could damage the surface, especially if the jewellery has a hypoallergenic coating.
Cleaning jewellery for sensitive skin
Before storing your jewellery, ensure it is cleaned carefully with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any residue from sweat, perfumes, oil, or dirt. For a deeper clean, carefully wash the piece in warm water with a mild detergent, rinse, and allow it to dry thoroughly.
Retailers specialising in hypoallergenic jewellery
There are several retailers specialising in hypoallergenic jewellery that have built a reputation for fine quality and elegant pieces suitable for sensitive skin. Solace Jewellery offer jewellery with a lifetime guarantee using nickel-free and tarnish-resistant materials that are advertised as allergy-safe.
For some trendy, funky designs that won’t cost a fortune or break you out in a rash, try MisGraceful, whose collection of mix-and-match pieces is made using stainless steel plated with 18-carat gold.
Corkey and Stoner create stunning statement jewellery using nickel-free materials, while Theo Grace designs custom rings, necklaces and personalised pieces for men, women and children.
Affordable options
If you can’t afford high-end hypoallergenic jewellery, there are plenty of alternatives. Modern designers are working with allergen-safe and biocompatible metals to create bold, innovative designs. Titanium is particularly popular as it can be anodised to produce vibrant colours. At the same time, stainless steel is incredibly robust and hard-wearing, making it a perfect choice for everyday wear jewellery.
How to avoid poor-quality jewellery
If it seems too good to be true, then it probably is! Poor-quality jewellery contains reactive materials like nickel and cadmium, and is particularly prevalent on inexpensive online sites. It’s better to contact a jeweller with a reputation for working with hypoallergenic materials to be certain that you’re getting exactly what you expect.
Our top tip: When buying gold-plated jewellery, look for pieces labelled as gold-filled. This is made using a thicker layer of gold than standard plating, so the gold layer lasts longer and provides a more effective barrier against allergic reactions for years.
FAQs
Where can I buy hypoallergenic jewellery?
There are designers online who specialise in hypoallergenic jewellery, as well as high-street retailers who carry specialist collections of jewellery for sensitive skin. If you are working with an independent designer, it’s best to reach out to them and ask about their materials and sources. A good jeweller will not be offended in any way and will be happy to help.
Is it expensive?
Not necessarily. If you buy 14-carat gold and fine platinum, then you will pay a higher price for your jewellery. But if you choose jewellery made from titanium or stainless steel, prices are much more affordable.
Who should wear hypoallergenic jewellery?
Anyone who has sensitive skin or wants to avoid the possibility of an allergic reaction to elements such as nickel, copper and cadmium.
Insuring your jewellery with TH March
Whether your jewellery is made from the finest gold or platinum or is a bespoke piece in titanium, it has value. Replacing any piece of jewellery isn’t just inconvenient; it can also be expensive. Insuring your jewellery with TH March gives you peace of mind that the financial cost of your precious pieces is covered.
For over 130 years, we’ve been providing insurance for fine quality jewellery, protecting your most valuable assets with insurance that’s custom-made for those precious pieces. You can find out more about our cover by exploring our Jewellery Insurance page. Alternatively, you can get an instant, no-obligation quote online or talk to one of our team for no-fuss advice on all your jewellery insurance needs. Call us today.