Choosing the right earring is essential to prevent allergy and infection. The material directly affects healing.
Safe Metals:
- Titanium: Medically best — never causes allergy. Lightweight. Ideal for children.
- 18K+ gold: Safe — higher karat means less nickel. 14K may contain nickel.
- Surgical steel (316L): Acceptable — common in medical earrings. May contain small amounts of nickel.
- Platinum: Safe but expensive.
Metals to Avoid:
- Nickel: Most common allergen — found in cheap jewelry.
- Copper: Causes skin discoloration and allergy.
- Sterling Silver: Oxidizes — not suitable for new piercings.
Proper Earring Shape:
- Stud earring with straight post — not a hoop.
- Flat back — doesn't press during sleep.
- Small size — doesn't catch on clothes.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we provide titanium medical earrings as part of the piercing service.