Nickel allergy is the most common metal allergy — affecting 10-20% of people. Ear piercing is one of its main triggers.
Symptoms:
- Itching and redness around the piercing.
- Skin rash and peeling.
- Swelling and watery discharge.
- Starts 12-48 hours after wearing a nickel-containing earring.
Why Ear Piercing Causes It:
- Earring stays in contact with open skin (wound) 24 hours.
- Moisture and sweat dissolve nickel from the metal.
- Body becomes sensitized to nickel and forms antibodies.
- Once sensitized — it's lifelong.
Prevention:
- Use titanium or 18K+ gold earrings from the start.
- Avoid cheap "fashion" jewelry.
- Allergy testing when in doubt (Patch test).
Treatment:
- Remove the causing earring immediately.
- Cortisone cream (Hydrocortisone 1%) — 5-7 days.
- Replace with titanium earring.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we protect your daughter from nickel allergy by using medical earrings from the start.