Metals other then gold can be reactive if exposed to the skin for too long. Among all these metal allergies nickel is the most common of them all. It can be found in costume jewelry, clothing ornamentation, such as zippers, buttons and snaps. Almost 16 percent of all individuals who are patch tested for allergies turn out to be allergic to this metal. The places which are largely prone to this allergy are the places where you sweat and you're wearing something with nickel. This is because sweat allows the metal ions to be better absorbed into the skin; this can also determine the severity of the dermatitis.
Anatomical Location and cause:
The most common location of nickel dermatitis is on the earlobes, as earrings containing nickel come into contact there. Another cause for this reaction could be the needle that is used for piercing the ears, eyelids, lips, tongue, and navel etc. Frequent change of jewelry may also cause this problem. Dermatologists suggest that the individuals that have nickel allergy should wear only nickel-free or plastic earrings.
Diet:
Some amounts of Nickel is found in spaghetti, baked beans, green pees, canned fruit, nuts chocolate and other can foods. The people with sensitivity should avoid these foods.
Clothing:
Metal zips, bra hooks, suspender clips, hair-pins, buttons, studs, spectacle frames etc have in most cases some Nickel content so try using substitutes made of plastic or other material.
Miscellaneous:
Other items that contain nickel and might be in day to day used are cigarette lighters, lipstick holders, cupboard handles, vacuum cleaners, coins etc. so keep a check on what you use as it may cause you discomfort in the future.
