Nickel is found to be one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis. In fact, the rising incidence of nickel-induced contact dermatitis earned its “fame” as the Allergen of the Year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society.

Mechanism of the allergic reaction

The immune system of people who are sensitive to nickel mistakenly identifies the metal to be harmful. Nickel, which is usually found in coins, jewelries, watch strap, studs, buckles, keys, eyeglass frames, and paper clips, causes an itchy rash upon exposure. Perspiration on the point of contact between the skin and nickel makes the reaction worse. Once the body is sensitized to nickel, the body produces an inflammatory response on the succeeding contacts. Allergic contact dermatitis caused by this metal may develop at any age and may persist for many years.

Having nickel allergy means developing a rash within 12 to 48 hours after skin contact. Accompanying symptoms are most likely:

• redness
• itching
• blisters
• crusting or scaling of dried skin

What your Doctor can do for you

Since skin contact is necessary for the allergy to develop, aside from a clinical history and physical assessment, the physician can order patch tests to diagnose nickel allergy. Prior to this, the patient must not be allowed to take any corticosteroids weeks before the test. The patch should remain on the skin for two, and the person must not take a bath during the duration of the test to avoid getting false results.
Nickel allergy is treated with topical corticosteroids prescribed by the physician, or an oral form if the reaction severe. Antihistamines may also be given to relieve the itching. And the patient shall be warned to avoid contact of any material that might contain nickel which can cause another allergic eruption.

What you can do

If you are allergic to nickel, try avoiding the stuff that causes your symptoms. Once you break out in rashes, here’s what you can do:

• Apply cool compress over the site of the eruption to soothe the itchiness. If the rashes occupy a large area, you may try soaking in a cool colloidal bath (e.g. oatmeal, baking soda)
• Avoid scratching to prevent secondary infection. Apply calamine lotion over the area as needed. Calamine contains zinc oxide that treats mild itching.

A few lifestyle changes can help decrease the possibility of another allergic reaction. Avoid contact with the metal by following these tips:

• The introduction of cheap fancy jewelries in the market is one of the reasons why people develop nickel allergies. Wear jewelries that are hypoallergenic and nickel-free.
• Should you wear jewelries made of nickel, be sure to coat them with transparent nail polish before wearing.
• If you consider piercing, consider the type of material piercers use. Make sure that you don’t use piercing guns which do not only contain nickel, they may harbor bacteria from previous use as well.
• Clothing that has zippers, hooks, and studs contain nickel. Use any alternatives that are coated or as much as possible, nickel-free.
• Cashiers are most likely to become victims of the nickel found in coins. Wear some protective garment like gloves before working.
• Other items like mobile phones, utensils, and other tools should have plastic handles.
• Usually, there are no dietary restrictions unless require. In any case of allergies, consult your Doctor first.