Hypoallergenic Materials For Sensitive Ear Earrings

In the jewelry industry, mass-produced costume earrings are constructed with metals such as stainless steel, silver and other alloys. Many times these metals can cause an allergic reaction. Frequently, the allergic reaction is caused by nickel used to blend with metals that normally would be considered hypoallergenic. The nickel content causes skin reactions such as dermatitis. This can be a frustrating problem for people who enjoy expressing their inner creativity through jewelry. Consumers who experience this type of unpleasant result can find relief with sensitive ear earrings. For that reason, many consumers seek out earrings with hypoallergenic materials.

Hypoallergenic Metals for Earrings

Currently manufacturers of hypoallergenic earrings have a wide array of metals from which to choose. These metals include titanium, gold, surgical steel and silver. In addition, jewelry designers can use plastic in the construction. For consumers, the key to purchasing hypoallergenic earrings is found in the purity of the metal used to make the jewelry.

Titanium

The medical industry frequently utilizes titanium for medical implants because of its superior hypoallergenic qualities. Titanium is an excellent choice for those individuals with allergies to nickel. The metal is an attractive silver color that works well with casual or formal jewelry.

Gold

Generally, gold used for earrings will not produce an allergic reaction in wearer. Most gold comes in purity levels of 18 and 14 karats. Sometimes, 10 and 12 karat gold is used. 100 percent pure gold is too soft to make jewelry, so other metals are mixed with gold to harden it. Palladium is a common metal for this purpose and is hypoallergenic. On occasion, nickel is mixed with gold to harden it. This makes the earrings inappropriate for an allergy sufferer. Thus, the buyer should carefully read the description of the alloy used to make the jewelry.

Surgical Steel

Surgical steel can be found in many types of costume jewelry. The metal is less expensive than gold or silver. It has excellent hypoallergenic qualities and can be used by just about anyone with a need for sensitive ear earrings. However, the metal does not have the aesthetic qualities of gold, silver or titanium. Frequently, shoppers will find this metal in casual styles of costume jewelry.

Silver

Silver is sometimes preferred to gold or titanium because it is less expensive. It has very good hypoallergenic properties. However, silver can be prone to oxidation and tarnishing. While the metal is good for preventing skin reactions and dermatitis, silver needs extra care to maintain its luster.

Plastic

Jewelry manufacturers use plastic on occasion. It is inexpensive and prevents skin reactions. Because of its informal appearance, plastic is used more for more relaxed looks and styles.

Tips for Buying Hypoallergenic Earrings

When possible, consumers searching for hypoallergenic earrings should turn to well established jewelry retailers with an excellent reputation to ensure the product they purchase is made with hypoallergenic materials. The shopper should look for the karat level in gold and the fineness of silver used. Even though the jewelry may be advertised as safe for sensitive ears, reading the description of the metal composition will help the consumer avoid alloys that may provoke a reaction.

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