Signs and symptoms of allergies in 14-carat gold earrings

Allergic reactions to 14-carat gold earrings and other metal jewellery are quite common. Signs and symptoms appear soon after exposure to new jewellery, or gradually appear as the metal on the earrings wears out. The response is different, from local stimulation of the puncture site to mild irritation to extensive and painful. If you are concerned about metal allergies or are responsive to the jewelry you wear, consider talking to your allergy specialist or doctor.

14 carats of gold often cause allergic reactions in and around the earlobe. (Picture: Design Picture / Design Picture / Getty Images)

Nickel is a metallic component used in gold alloys for most gold jewellery. It is mainly used because it is an inexpensive hard metal with a fade and whitening effect and is often used in expensive jewewlry. According to the Amazon Precious Metals Guide, 14 carat gold is 58.3% pure 24 carat gold, while the remaining percentage consists of metal alloys including silver, nickel, copper and zinc.

Allergic contact dermatitis

[Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin around the earrings (usually the earlobe and neck) reacts with nickel and other metallic elements in the earrings. The skin usually becomes swollen and rashes between 24 and 48 hours after exposure to the irritant. Depending on the severity of your reaction, inflammation may cause open ulcers due to mild irritation.

Frequency

Although you may not have an allergic reaction after wearing new jewelry, over time, gold molecules may begin to wear out, exposing your earlobe to nickel and other In metal alloys. Once you are sensitive to metal allergens, even a brief contact can cause your contact dermatitis to reappear. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, in some cases, an allergic reaction from the earlobe may trigger an allergic reaction in other decorative areas of jewelry that have never experienced an allergic reaction in the past.

Treatment [

Treat your reaction by removing the earrings and rinsing the area with plenty of water to eliminate any residual irritants. You can also use over-the-counter topical cortisone creams such as hydrocortisone cream. If your symptoms do not improve within five to seven days, you may needI want to say doctor w.

Prevention

Healthcare Information Website ShareCare MD Dermatologist recommends that in order to prevent the wear of gold earrings, consider plating them 24K gold. . You can also try to store the jewelry in a sealed dry bag or bag that does not contain solvents, detergents or adhesives. Polish the earrings regularly and wipe them clean after wearing them. If you continue to develop an allergic reaction, you may want to consider converting your earrings and other jewelry metal to stainless steel, titanium or other hypoallergenic metals.