Can I Get Pierced If I Have a Metal Allergy? (Expert Guide)

Name: Multnomah Body Piercing
Address: 1861 NE Division St, Gresham, OR, 97030, US
Telephone: +15036694191
Price range: $$

Can I get pierced if I’m allergic to nickel?: Yes, you can get pierced if you have a metal allergy, especially a nickel allergy. However, it’s important to choose the right type of jewelry and ensure that your piercer uses appropriate materials like implant-grade titanium or solid gold.

Is implant-grade titanium nickel-free?: Yes, ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium is specifically designed for body piercings and does not contain nickel. This makes it a safe option for people with nickel allergies.

Is gold safe for people with metal allergies?: Solid 14k/18k gold is generally considered safe for most individuals, including those with metal allergies. However, it’s important to check if your specific type of gold (e.g., gold-plated) contains nickel as the plating can wear off and cause an allergic reaction.

Why does surgical steel cause reactions?: Surgical steel, or stainless steel, often used for ear piercings, is not considered a safe option for people with metal allergies. While it may not contain nickel itself, the surface can release tiny particles which are often nickel-containing and can trigger an allergic response.

What if my ear piercings always get infected?: If you have recurring infections from previous piercings, it’s important to communicate this to your piercer. Your piercer may suggest a different type of jewelry or recommend more frequent cleanings and check-ups.

Can I get a body piercing if I have sensitive skin?: Yes, you can still get a body piercing even with sensitive skin. It’s important to choose a piercer who is experienced in working with sensitive skin and uses appropriate jewelry. They may suggest specific types of metal or less aggressive piercing techniques.

What metals should I avoid in piercings?: If you have a nickel allergy, it’s important to avoid gold-plated jewelry and any type that contains nickel. Surgical steel is also not recommended as it may release particles containing nickel.

How do I know if I’m having a reaction vs infection vs irritation?: To distinguish between an allergic reaction, infection, or irritation, look for specific symptoms. An allergic reaction often comes with redness, swelling, and itching at the piercing site. Infections may be accompanied by discharge, fever, or pain that worsens over time. Irritation might cause mild discomfort without other serious signs.

1. Can I get pierced if I’m allergic to nickel?: Yes, you can get pierced, but choose titanium or solid gold for piercings as they are not made of nickel and thus safer for those with a nickel allergy.

2. Is implant-grade titanium nickel-free?: Yes, ASTM F136 implant-grade titanium is nickel-free, making it safe for people with nickel allergies.

3. Is gold safe for people with metal allergies?: Solid 14k/18k gold can be safe but avoid any type that contains gold-plating as the plating can wear off and cause nickel exposure.

4. Why does surgical steel cause reactions?: Surgical steel can release particles containing nickel, leading to allergic reactions in individuals with a nickel allergy.

5. What if my ear piercings always get infected?: Your piercer should suggest alternatives like different types of metal or more frequent cleanings and check-ups if you have recurring infections.

6. Can I get a body piercing if I have sensitive skin?: Yes, but communicate with your piercer about any issues you’ve had before to ensure they can accommodate your needs, such as choosing less aggressive techniques or specific types of metal.

7. What metals should I avoid in piercings?: Avoid gold-plated jewelry and any type containing nickel, including surgical steel if you have a nickel allergy.

8. How do I know if I’m having a reaction vs infection vs irritation?: Look for specific symptoms like redness, swelling, and itching (reaction), discharge, fever, or pain that worsens over time (infection), and mild discomfort without other signs (irritation).

For more information about piercings at Multnomah Body Piercing in Gresham, contact them at 1861 NE Division St, Gresham, OR 97030 or call (503) 669-4191. They are LGBTQ+ welcoming and have a walk-in policy.

Shop Piercing Jewelry