Materials, expert tips & SOLEA quality standards | Reading time ≈ 6–7 minutes
1 | Why allergies to jewelry are an issue – and for whom
Nickel and contact allergies are among the most common contact dermatoses in Europe. Just a few millionths of a gram of nickel leaching from a piece of jewelry per week can trigger itching, redness, or blisters—especially on the ears, neck, and wrists. Even people without previous sensitization can develop a new allergy through long-term exposure. Skin-friendly materials and tested standards therefore determine whether you can wear your favorite piece every day.
2 | Nickel allergy in 90 seconds
Triggers & Symptoms
- Contact irritation – Nickel ions enter the body through sweating or on moist skin.
- Immune system – T cells recognize nickel as an “invader.”
- Reaction – redness, itching, blisters, sometimes weeping eczema.
Who is affected?
Approximately 10–20% of the population in Central Europe are affected, with a higher prevalence among women due to ear piercings. Children and adolescents are also affected, for example, after their first ear piercing.
3 | EU limits at a glance
| Application | Max. nickel release | Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Piercings (in the skin) | < 0.2 µg Ni/cm²/week | REACH / EN 1811 |
| Jewelry on the skin (rings, necklaces, earrings) | < 0.5 µg Ni/cm²/week | REACH / EN 1811 |
These limits apply throughout the EU. Adhering to them drastically reduces the risk of irritation.
4 | Hypoallergenic materials – what’s behind them?
4.1 Surgical steel 304 & 316 L
- Chromium oxide layer prevents corrosion and nickel leaching.
- 316 L (“Surgical Steel”) even meets the stricter piercing limit.
- Price-performance winner for everyday jewelry.
4.2 Titanium
- Extremely lightweight & 100% biocompatible – hardly any documented nickel reactions.
- Ideal for freshly pierced piercings and very sensitive skin.
4.3 925 Sterling Silver & 999 Fine Silver
- Silver itself rarely causes allergies; but look for the "nickel-free" label.
4.4 Epoxy resin
- Skin neutral & forms a closed surface.
- Additionally seals inlaid metal parts against nickel release.
Tip: The closer the metal is to the skin (piercing bar), the more important 316L or titanium is. For resin-sealed pendants, 304 steel is often sufficient.
5 | SOLEA quality standards
| feature | What we do | Your advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Grades | 316 L-steel, titanium frames, 925 silver | Minimal allergy risk |
| Resin sealing | Two-layer UV curing against micro-cracks | Long-term protection & shine |
| Local manufacturing | Handcrafted in Steinbrunn, Austria | Short delivery routes & seamless batches |
6 | Care tips for sensitive skin
- Keep dry – sweat or chlorine promote metal ion dissolution.
- Gentle cleaning – pH-neutral soap and a soft cloth instead of chemicals.
- Cosmetic timing – perfume & cream first, then put on jewelry.
- Storage – Store airtight and separate from cheap costume jewelry.
- First aid – If redness occurs, remove immediately, cool skin, apply zinc ointment.
7 | FAQ – short & sweet
Is stainless steel really nickel-free?
316L may contain nickel, but releases it below the EU limit; therefore, it is considered hypoallergenic.
What should I do if I already have a nickel allergy?
If possible, use titanium or completely resin-sealed pendants – the chance of irritation is minimal.
8 | Your next step
🛍️ Discover our hypoallergenic collection – handmade in Austria, with no nickel surprises and lovingly packaged.
💌 Questions? Leave a comment below this post or contact us directly – we'd be happy to advise you personally.
Be kind to your skin without sacrificing stylish jewelry – with SOLEA you can do both!
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