Nickel is described as a silvery-white metal that is found in nature. It is usually combined with other metals to produce alloys such as nickel-iron used in manufacturing stainless steel which is the most prevalent form of nickel alloy. Other alloys are utilized in producing coins, zippers, costume jewelry, girdle or bra fasteners, buttons, snaps, hairpins, suspender clips, eyeglass frames, studs, utensils, tools, pens, paper clips and keys. An individual with nickel allergy will develop skin rashes once the skin is exposed to products made out of nickel.
Nickel is found in various common daily objects. Even though one might be exposed to nickel in the workplace, it is more likely for the general population to be exposed to nickel through direct skin contact.
Allergic reaction to nickel
Nickel is considered as a common cause of allergic skin rashes. Take note that nickel allergy is quite common among women than men. Apparently, ear piercing is quite common among women which place them at higher risk of becoming sensitized to nickel.
Nickel allergy develops after initial or repeated exposure to nickel or nickel-containing objects, depending on the sensitivity of the individual. The degree of reaction also varies for each individual. Specifically, nickel allergy is a contact allergy which is a skin reaction as a response to exposure to the contact allergen or irritant.
Nickel allergy can occur at any age and usually manifests a few days after initial contact as eczema. This manifests as a prickly, crusty/dry, red-colored rash with moist blisters. The involved area is limited to the area of contact but can also occur on other parts of the body. Once nickel allergy has developed, it is usually a chronic condition, oftentimes life-long.
Testing for nickel allergy
An individual suspected of this allergy should undergo proper testing. In most cases, a patch test is carried out which involves the direct application of a small amount of the allergen to the skin on the upper back using hypoallergenic tape.
The concentration of these allergens are low so that it will not cause irritation among non-allergic individuals, but high enough to trigger a positive reaction in sensitive individuals. The allergens are in contact with the skin for 48 hours and then assessed 48 hours after the application.
An individual with a positive reaction is allergic to nickel. Nevertheless, a patch test might produce unclear or vague results that entail further examination.
Preventive measures
- When choosing clothing, check if the fasteners are made out of plastic, painted or coated metal.
- The jewelry used should be hypoallergenic or made out of stainless steel, pure sterling silver, solid gold or polycarbonate plastic.
- In case the earrings that contain nickel are used, it is recommended to use plastic covers made specifically for earring studs. Another option is to apply clear nail polish to earrings.
Treatment
It is important to note that there is no cure for nickel allergy. On the other hand, there are temporary relief measures.
- In some cases, the use of topical steroids is advised which should be used as directed by the doctor.
- Compresses made out of Burow’s solution that is diluted with water which works by drying up the blisters
- Emollient creams work by alleviating the dryness and itchiness caused by dermatitis once applied frequently