Earring Allergies: What You Need to Know
So, you’ve got sensitive ears, and the thought of putting on a new pair of earrings makes you a bit nervous? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Let’s chat about the common issue of earring allergies and how you can keep your ears happy while still looking fabulous.
The Nickel Issue
One of the main culprits behind earring allergies is nickel. This sneaky little metal can cause a reaction called contact dermatitis—basically, your skin gets all itchy, red, and irritated. Not ideal, right? Unfortunately, nickel is a common ingredient in a lot of jewellery, but the good news is that the EU has strict regulations in place to reduce the amount of nickel that can be used in jewellery. These rules are designed to protect you from those annoying allergic reactions, but it doesn’t mean every piece of jewellery you buy will automatically be nickel-free.
That’s why I’m extra careful when choosing the materials for MarleseMade jewellery. Almost all of my pieces are crafted using hypoallergenic stainless steel—a wonderful, safe alternative for sensitive ears.
What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?
Hypoallergenic simply means that the materials used are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. For earrings, that usually means avoiding nickel and using metals that are more skin-friendly. In the case of MarleseMade, all my earring hooks and studs are hypoallergenic stainless steel, so you can feel confident wearing them without worrying about flare-ups.
When I Use Brass (And What It Means for You)
Now, there are a few exceptions! Some of my larger statement earrings feature ornate brass studs. While brass is a beautiful material, it’s not as hypoallergenic as stainless steel, so if you have sensitive skin, this is something to keep in mind. Don’t worry, though—I make sure to clearly mention it in the product listing when brass is used, so you’ll always know what you’re getting.
What About Necklaces?
Just like my earrings, the chains in my necklaces are made from hypoallergenic stainless steel too. So, whether you're wearing earrings or a necklace, you can be assured that I’ve put a lot of thought into keeping your skin comfortable and irritation-free.
Upgrades to Sterling Silver or Titanium
For those of you with especially sensitive ears or skin, I offer upgrades to sterling silver or titanium at an extra cost, on request. Let’s break down what the different metals mean for you:
- Stainless Steel: A sturdy, hypoallergenic option that is resistant to rust and corrosion. It’s a great choice for everyday wear and offers good protection against allergic reactions. It is also very unlikely to tarnish.
- Sterling Silver: Made of 92.5% pure silver, sterling silver is a beautiful, hypoallergenic option for those who are extra cautious about their skin. It’s durable and adds a touch of elegance, but just make sure to keep it clean to avoid tarnishing.
- Titanium: One of the most hypoallergenic metals available, titanium is perfect if you have severe metal sensitivities. It’s lightweight, strong, and a top choice for people with serious metal allergies.
If you want to avail of either of these upgrade option, please reach out to me via email to discuss what can be done.
Why It Matters
Your jewellery should make you feel good, not leave you with itchy ears or irritated skin. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to ensure my pieces are safe for sensitive skin while still being stylish and unique. Whether you go for the stainless steel, opt for sterling silver, or upgrade to titanium, you’ll get jewellery that looks gorgeous and treats your skin kindly.