Boston Nickel Allergy Dermatologist

What is nickel allergy?

A common skin allergy that appears as a rash after exposure to anything containing nickel such as jewelry, cell phones, eyeglasses, etc.

Symptoms

• Symptoms appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure.
• Itching, redness, rash, dry patches, and swelling of the skin.
• Rashes sometimes turn into blisters that may break, causing crusty and scaly skin.
• Rash is usually limited to the area in direct contact with nickel. However, in rare cases, may spread.

Treatment

• Nickel allergy remains for life but can be controlled.
• Avoid jewelry, clothing snaps, cell phones are other nickel containing products.
• Mild symptoms may be treated with a hydrocortisone cream and antihistamine pills.
• Severe symptoms are treated with a prescription steroid cream.
• Oral steroids and antihistamine pills may also be used.

If skin is left untreated, skin may become dark, leathery, and cracked. Skin may also become infected and appear red with a yellow crust.

Prevention

• Avoid jewelry containing nickel.
• Avoid nickel-rich foods such as fish and chocolate since foods with a high nickel content could also cause a rash in patients with a nickel allergy.

Learn more at the WebMD: WebMD Nickel (Jewelry) Allergies: Symptoms, Treatments, and Avoiding Triggers.