Patna: Health specialists have urged consumers to exercise caution while buying artificial jewellery this wedding season, warning that several commonly used metals in fashion accessories can cause allergic reactions, with nickel identified as the leading trigger.
Artificial or costume jewellery remains popular for its affordability and design variety, but dermatologists say frequent use can lead to skin problems, including swelling, rashes, itching, bumps and dry patches. According to the US National Library of Medicine, many of these reactions stem from the metals used to make such accessories.
Nickel, widely used for its durability and low cost, is the most common cause of contact dermatitis among wearers.
Lead, also found in some low-cost ornaments, can cause irritation and carries broader health risks.
Cadmium, another toxic metal used in certain pieces, may trigger allergic reactions and more serious long-term effects.
The condition, known as contact dermatitis, occurs when the skin reacts to metals used in jewellery or piercings. While not infectious or life-threatening, the resulting red, itchy rash can be extremely uncomfortable. Symptoms usually appear 24–48 hours after exposure and may last up to four weeks. Symptoms of an artificial jewellery allergy. Allergic reactions typically begin 24 to 48 hours after contact and last 2 to 4 weeks.
Symptoms may include:
- Itching or burning
- Redness
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Warmth
- Bumps or blisters
- Dry, burnt-looking patches
- Blisters that release fluid
Dermatologists caution that rashes from cheap jewellery can become infected if bacteria enter broken or damp skin. Signs of infection, such as yellowing, oozing or unusual odour, require medical attention.
There is no permanent cure for metal allergies, and the most effective prevention is avoiding exposure to irritant metals. The best approach is to avoid the metals that trigger reactions, especially those commonly used in jewellery.
If you experience an allergic reaction, follow these steps:
- Remove the jewellery causing the allergy and monitor your skin.
- Apply steroid creams to ease the rash. Dermatologists may prescribe corticosteroid creams, non-steroidal creams, oral corticosteroids or antihistamines to reduce symptoms.
- Use soothing products such as emollient creams, calamine lotion, petroleum jelly or mineral oil to relieve itching. Moisturising is essential as the skin barrier gets damaged by allergens.
- A wet compress can help calm blisters and soothe itching.
- Avoid over-the-counter antibiotic creams such as those containing neomycin, as they can worsen allergic reactions.
