Allergies to metals around us
Allergies to metals, specifically contact allergies, manifest as a skin reaction at the site of contact with the allergen. These often include redness, itching, swelling, blisters and eczema. The most common allergens are metals such as nickel, chromium and cobalt, but other metals can also cause allergies.
What is a metal allergy?
Contact allergy: This is a type of allergy in which the immune system reacts to contact with an allergen (in this case, a metal).
Symptoms:
Typical symptoms include redness, itching, swelling, blisters, rashes and eczema at the site of contact with the metal.
Allergens:
Allergies to nickel, chromium and cobalt are most common, but other metals can also cause allergies.
Onset:
Reactions usually appear within 24 to 48 hours after contact with the allergen, but sometimes sooner.
When can a metal allergy occur?
Jewellery: Metal jewellery, especially those containing nickel, are a common source of allergies.
Implants: Implants, especially orthopaedic ones, can cause an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
Everyday items: Allergies can also occur upon contact with everyday items such as buttons, zippers, coins, belts, and watches.
Laundry detergents: Some ingredients in laundry detergents can also cause an allergic reaction.
What to do if you suspect a metal allergy?
Visit a dermatologist: It is important to visit a dermatologist who will perform tests and determine the exact allergen.
Avoiding allergens: Once the allergen has been identified, it is important to avoid contact with it, e.g. by not wearing jewellery containing nickel or chromium.
Skin care: It is important to use moisturising creams and apply emollients to the skin.
Treatment of symptoms:
Your doctor may prescribe medications to relieve itching, swelling and inflammation, such as antihistamines or corticosteroids.
Our tip:
When treating contact dermatitis, dermatologists recommend using barrier creams such as Dermaguard to gradually restore the skin and its natural barrier. Dermaguard cream creates an invisible protective shield on the skin against most allergens found in the environment (in this case, metals). Because the allergen does not penetrate the skin, it remains unirritated. The protection lasts for around 4-6 hours. The cream also effectively moisturises the skin without leaving it feeling greasy and strengthens the skin barrier. It can be used on any part of the body except the mucous membranes. The cream contains dimethicone, which gradually evaporates from the skin under the influence of sweat acidity. The cream is unscented.
