Nickel Allergy: Symptoms and Treatment

A nickel allergy causes symptoms such as redness and itching of the skin. We explain which symptoms the allergy still has and which treatment helps.

What is a nickel allergy?

The nickel allergy is a so-called contact allergy and is one of the most common allergies in the United States. Contact with nickel causes itching and reddening of the skin – a few micrograms are sufficient. The nickel allergy itself is not curable, but the symptoms can be treated with ointments (e.g. with cortisone). Those affected should avoid objects containing nickel.

Nickel allergies: What causes an allergic reaction?

When in contact with nickel-containing or nickel-releasing objects, it usually takes only a few hours until our slightly acidic sweat releases so-called nickel ions, which then penetrate the skin barrier. This in turn activates the immune system. Before the actual nickel allergy, a so-called sensitization often occurs, in which the immune cells begin to classify nickel as harmful.

What exactly is nickel?

Nickel is a metal. As a trace element it is vital for the body, and it is also found, for example, as a chemical element in various alloys. There are many products containing nickel such as jewellery, batteries, coins or buttons. But there are also some food products that are not exactly low in nickel.

What are the symptoms of a nickel allergy?

Various allergy symptoms occur at the affected skin areas. These include:

• Itching
• Bubbles and nodules (“papules”)
• Rashes
• Wetness

Sometimes the itching can be strong and annoying – but you should not scratch yourself. This not only delays the healing process, but can also promote inflammation. Frequent contact with nickel can lead to permanent skin changes. In this case one speaks of a chronic allergic contact eczema.

Treatment of nickel allergies: So says the dermatologist

A nickel allergy remains for the whole life – unlike hay fever, for example, it cannot be contained by hyposensitization. However, the symptoms can be controlled quite easily by treating the affected skin areas with cortisone ointments or creams (similar to a detergent allergy). In addition, nickel allergy sufferers should avoid the use of objects containing nickel as much as possible. The nickel content is noted on many labels.