Is Artificial Jewellery Bad for Skin? Side Effects Explained

Most people wear artificial jewellery for years without any problem. Some people, though, get itching, redness or dark marks where a piece touches the skin. This is usually a reaction to a metal, to sweat trapped under the jewellery, or to products on the skin - not something dangerous, but uncomfortable. Here is what causes it and what to do.

Why some people react to fashion jewellery

• Metal sensitivity. Some people are sensitive to certain metals that can be present in base metals and alloys used across fashion jewellery. Nickel is the most commonly reported metal allergen worldwide.
• Worn plating. When plating wears thin, more of the base metal touches the skin.
• Sweat and moisture. Sweat trapped under a bangle or earring post can irritate skin and speed up tarnish.
• Products on the skin. Perfume, lotion and hairspray under jewellery can cause irritation on their own.
• New piercings. A piercing that has not fully healed is more easily irritated.

We do not claim our jewellery is suitable for sensitive skin or free of any metal - no lab test backs such a claim. What we can tell you is what our pieces are: Zamak (a zinc alloy) base, gold-plated.

Signs of a skin reaction

• Itching or burning where the piece touches.
• Redness or a rash.
• Small bumps or blisters.
• Dry, scaly skin after repeated wear.
• Green or dark marks (often tarnish rather than a reaction). Read why earrings turn ears black.

What to do if your skin reacts

1. Take the piece off straight away.

2. Wash the area with mild soap and water, and pat it dry.

3. Let the skin rest - no jewellery on that spot until it has settled.

4. See a doctor or dermatologist if the reaction is severe, spreading, blistering, or does not settle in a few days. A doctor can test for specific metal allergies.

Habits that reduce irritation

• Wear a new piece for a short time first and check your skin.
• Put jewellery on last - after perfume and lotion have dried. Read jewellery and perfume order.
• Take it off before sleeping, bathing and exercising.
• Wipe jewellery after wearing to remove sweat.
• Keep piercings clean and wear light earrings until they heal.
• Rotate pieces instead of wearing one every day.

Read sweat and gold plating.

Is it OK to wear artificial jewellery every day?

Many people do. If your skin does not react, daily wear is fine, though plating wears faster. If you have known metal sensitivity, keep artificial jewellery for occasions and short periods, and follow your doctor's advice.

Artificial jewellery for children

Children's skin can be more sensitive, and small pieces can be swallowed. Choose light, simple pieces, wear them for short periods and always supervise young children.

Is artificial jewellery safe to wear while sleeping?

It is better not to. Sleeping in earrings presses the backs into the skin, and necklaces can catch and pull. Taking jewellery off at night also lets skin breathe and keeps plating in better condition.

Can artificial jewellery cause black or green marks?

Yes, sometimes. Green or dark marks on skin are usually caused by metal reacting with sweat, not by an allergy. They wash off with soap and water. Keeping jewellery dry and wiping it after wearing reduces them.

Should I stop wearing artificial jewellery altogether?

Only if your skin reacts every time. Many people with mild sensitivity wear artificial jewellery for a few hours at a function without trouble. If you are unsure, ask a dermatologist.

A note on children and pets

Keep jewellery out of reach of small children and pets, who may chew or swallow small pieces.

Frequently asked questions

Does artificial jewellery have side effects?

Most people have no problem. Some people react to certain metals, sweat or skin products; signs include itching, redness or a rash.

Why do artificial earrings make my ears itch?

Often metal sensitivity, a healing piercing, or sweat and products trapped around the post. Take them off and let the skin rest.

Should I see a doctor for a jewellery rash?

Yes, if it is severe, spreading, blistering or lasts more than a few days.