Nickel allergy - symptoms, triggers and what really helps
Nickel allergy manifests itself as a skin rash and itching. Find out how to recognise triggers, avoid contact and relieve symptoms naturally.
Things worth knowing about "Nickel allergy"
The nickel allergy is a contact allergy of the late type (type IV) and is one of the most common contact allergies worldwide.
A nickel allergy occurs when the immune system reacts hypersensitively to nickel ions that are released from jewellery, watches, jeans buttons, glasses or mobile phones, for example. Nickel can also be ingested through food and trigger symptoms - this is referred to as a systemic nickel allergy.
Typical is a local skin rash at the contact site, often with redness, itching, scaling or blistering. Frequently affected areas are earlobes, wrists, abdomen and hands. Systemic exposure can also lead to less specific symptoms such as eczema, headaches or digestive problems may occur.
The most important measure is consistent avoidance of nickel sources. This includes nickel-free jewellery, wearing nickel-safe textiles, the use of protective lacquer on metal surfaces and - if necessary - a low-nickel diet. Supporting zinc, vitamin C and Lactoferrin help, as they inhibit nickel uptake resp. strengthen the barrier function of the skin
.Typical symptoms of a nickel allergy:
- Contact dermatitis with redness, itching, blisters, crusts
- Skin rashes on earlobes, wrists, abdomen, hands
- With oral intake: digestive problems, eczema, possibly. Headache
- Complaints often hours to days after contact
Frequent triggers:
- Fashion jewellery, glasses, zips, buttons, watches
- Euro coins, tools, mobile phones
- Nickel-rich foods: Oats, soya, nuts, cocoa, pulses
- Tooth braces, cookware, piercings
Treatment & prevention:
- Allergy test(epicutaneous test) for confirmation
- Nickel avoidance in everyday life and if necessary. Low-nickel diet
- Zinc and Vitamin C to reduce nickel absorption
- Lactoferrin for immune regulation in chronic inflammatory reactions
- Cortisone-containing creams (short-term) for severe eczema
- Care products without fragrances and preservatives
Literature references
- Thyssen, J.P. et al. (2011): Nickel allergy - epidemiology and prevention. Contact Dermatitis.
- Hostynek, J.J. (2006): Factors determining percutaneous metal absorption. Crit Rev Toxicol.
- Gawkrodger, D.J. (2005): Nickel sensitivity: an overview. Br J Dermatol.
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