Hypoallergenic Wedding Rings and Bands

There are many people who want to wear wedding rings or wedding bands, but who suffer from allergies to the base metal. A nickel contact allergy can result in contact dermatitis. Symptoms include a persistent rash and skin irritation, which can be problematic especially after investing in a ring for a loved one. Contact dermatitis can even occur with gold, although the base metals (a few which will be listed later) are typically the cause.

Nickel & Cobalt Allergies & Reactions

Wedding ring rashes, or wedding ring dermatitis, is an allergy. Sometimes it can be caused by bacteria or a buildup of soap or lotions under the ring. A common allergic reaction, a nickel allergy can be caused by prolonged exposure to anything containing nickel, such as jewelry, coins, zippers, and even eyeglass frames and cellphones. Symptoms include rash or bumps on the skin, itching, redness, dry patches, and blisters.

Reactions to cobalt often coexist with individuals with a nickel allergy. The symptoms are similar, but may also include erythema multiforme, or bulls-eye rashes. These can sometimes form small blisters and scabs in the middle.

Hypoallergenic Ring Metals

The solution is to choose a ring or band with a different metal composition. Some alternative materials you can use include:

• Platinum: A precious metal that is harder and more durable than gold. Wedding bands made of .950 grade platinum contain iridium, ruthenium, and palladium as well, which are usually non-allergenic.
• Cobalt/Cobalt Chrome: A strong, malleable biocompatible alloy that’s harder than platinum and other precious metals that is often used in dental and joint implants. It consists of non-irritants and will not cause an allergic reaction or irritation.
• Tungsten Carbide: Often used in men’s and women’s wedding band sets, it consists of two metals forged together. It is strong and scratch-resistant; tungsten carbide rings are also four times harder than titanium ones.
• Titanium: Is safe for people who are prone to allergic contact dermatitis, although it’s not as strong as other metals. However, it retains its silver color, does not rust or corrode, and is easily cleaned with soap and water.
• Ceramic: Ceramic jewelry is strong, heat-resistant, and doesn’t cost as much as other metals. It is a biocompatible material that is lightweight, scratch-resistant, and hypoallergenic; also, it’s one of the most popular black metals.

Are These Rings Removable?

There’s often a concern that titanium or tungsten carbide engagement rings aren’t removable. However, doctors can remove them. Platinum requires a high-speed steel blade to remove. A stronger, higher quality ring will be more difficult to remove. It all depends on the materials the ring is made of. Consult with your jeweler about how to safely remove a ring or band with the materials and design of the one you have or plan to wear.

Find Your Perfect Hypoallergenic Wedding Band

Jeweler’s Touch specializes in traditional and nontraditional wedding bands and rings. We offer custom design services using 3D CAD technology and can include various types of gemstones, non-conductive materials, durable coatings, and hypoallergenic metals. Feel free to browse our catalog of cobalt, ceramic, platinum, and titanium rings online.

Once we complete your jewelry, a ten-step quality inspection is performed, under magnification, to ensure it meets our standards and your expectations. In addition, we offer financing options and a 90-day free layaway plan. For more information and to inquire about allergy-free ring and band options, contact Jeweler’s Touch at 714-266-1395, or feel free to apply for financing online.