(Adapted from the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology, December 2008)

Nickel is a leading cause of allergic contact dermatitis—an itchy rash that develops when a person's skin touches a normally harmless material. (Another common form of allergic contact dermatitis is poison ivy.)

Nickel is a silver-colored metal that is mixed with other metals to make coins, jewelry, eyeglass frames, home fixtures, keys, and other common items. Because nickel can be found in braces, crowns and dentures, be sure to tell your dentist or orthodontist if you have a nickel allergy. If you are having orthopedic surgery, you should tell your doctor because some orthopedic hardware contains nickel.

Studies show that body piercing is the single most common cause of nickel allergy. While there is no cure for nickel allergy, allergic reactions can be prevented by avoiding products that contain it. Home testing kits are available to check metal items for nickel.

Only wear nickel-free jewelry, including earrings, necklaces and watches. Keep a barrier, such as an undershirt, between your skin and metal snaps and zippers on clothing.

If you are having your ears pierced, choosing the right pair of earrings can prevent nickel allergy from developing. Wear only stainless steel or solid gold earrings until the piercing has completely healed – about 3 weeks.

While most reactions are uncomfortable and unattractive, they can be effectively treated. If the rash is small, one usually uses medicated cream such as topical steroids that can be rubbed on the irritated skin. For larger or more serious outbreaks, cortisone tablets or a steroid injection may be required.

SUMMARY

• Nickel is the most common metal that people are allergic to. In sensitive people, it causes a red itchy, bumpy rash.

• Reactions can occur up to 2 days after touching the metal, and can last up to a month.

• Jewelry is a frequent trigger of nickel allergy. The only way to prevent a reaction is to avoid wearing or having contact with any metal that contains nickel.

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