Are Gold Plated Earrings Hypoallergenic Jewelry?
Are you someone who loves gold jewelry, but every time you wear it, you end up with red, itchy skin? If so, you’re not alone.
Many people suffer from sensitive skin and can’t wear just any kind of jewelry without experiencing discomfort. That’s where hypoallergenic jewelry comes in.
Hypoallergenic jewelry is specifically designed for everyday wear for people with sensitive ears and skin.
Typically hypoallergenic jewelry is made from high quality materials that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction, such as nickel-free metals, surgical stainless steel, and titanium.
But are gold-plated earrings hypoallergenic? Let’s find out.
Are gold-plated earrings hypoallergenic?
Gold-plated earrings are not necessarily hypoallergenic, as the base metal used in the plating process can still cause an allergic reaction if you have a metal sensitivity.
However, if the base metal is nickel-free, hypoallergenic, and the plating is thick and high-quality, the gold-plated earrings may be less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
It’s important to note that even if the earrings are hypoallergenic, some people may still have a reaction due to individual sensitivities or allergies.
If you have sensitive skin or a history of allergic reactions to certain metals, it is best to choose earrings made from hypoallergenic materials such as surgical steel, stainless steel, titanium, or solid gold.
How to know if you have metal allergies?
While you can go to a board-certified dermatologist for allergy testing, there are other ways to determine if you have a metal allergy.
If any of these things have happened to you, you probably have a metal allergy:
- Has a belt buckle ever left red patches on your skin?
- Have you ever put cheap earrings in your ears only to find them itching later?
- Have certain metal rings given you green skin on your finger?
What is hypoallergenic jewelry?
Hypoallergenic jewelry is jewelry that’s less likely to cause an allergic reaction in people with sensitive skin or allergies.
This type of jewelry is made from hypoallergenic metals that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction, such as surgical-grade stainless steel, titanium, solid gold (not typically gold-plated unless the plating is thick), platinum, or nickel-free metals.
Nickel is the most common metal allergy, which is why some people have a skin reaction to some jewelry.
Hypoallergenic jewelry, therefore, must be nickel-free, meaning that it does not contain any nickel in its composition.
Some other materials that may be used in hypoallergenic jewelry include sterling silver, copper, and certain types of acrylic or resin.
It’s important to note that while hypoallergenic jewelry may be less likely to cause an allergic reaction, it is not guaranteed to be 100% hypoallergenic for everyone.
People with particularly sensitive skin or allergies may still experience a reaction to hypoallergenic materials.
What are gold-plated earrings?
Gold-plated earrings are earrings that have a thin layer of gold plated onto a base metal.
The process of gold plating involves depositing a thin layer of gold onto the surface of the base metal, typically through an electroplating process.
The thickness and quality of the gold plating can vary, depending on the manufacturer and the intended use of the earrings.
In general, higher-quality gold-plated earrings will have a thicker layer of gold plating, which makes them more durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Gold-plated earrings can be a more affordable alternative to solid gold earrings, while still providing the look and feel of gold.
But, over time, the gold plating can wear off, exposing the metal underneath. So if you have a nickel allergy, you could still have skin irritation with gold-plated earrings.
So, are gold-plated earrings bad for sensitive ears?
If you love the look of gold-plated earrings but have sensitive ears, no need to worry. While gold-plated earrings can potentially cause an allergic reaction in some people, there are options available that are less likely to cause discomfort.
Before making your purchase, determine if the metal underneath the gold plating is nickel-free. Stainless steel and titanium are both good options.
If you decide to wear gold-plated earrings and don’t know what other metal they’re made of, watch for any signs of discomfort or irritation.
If you experience any itching, redness, or swelling, it’s best to remove the earrings immediately and try a different type of jewelry.
Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. But don’t worry, with a little bit of trial and error, you can find the perfect earrings that look great and feel comfortable too.
Best earrings for people with nickel allergies
If you have a nickel allergy and are looking for earring options that won’t cause a reaction, these are some of the best options to consider.
- Hypoallergenic metals: Look for earrings made from hypoallergenic metals such as surgical-grade stainless steel, titanium, platinum, or solid gold – you can choose from yellow or rose gold. Because of their biocompatibility, these are the best metals because they’re less likely to cause an allergic reaction and are often used in medical implants.
- Nickel-free metals: Many jewelry manufacturers now offer earrings made from nickel-free types of metals such as brass, copper, or aluminum. These metals are often used as base metals and then plated with a layer of gold or pure silver to create a stylish and affordable earring option.
- Plastic or acrylic earrings: These lightweight and colorful earrings are a fun and affordable option for those with nickel allergies. Costume jewelry like this is often hypoallergenic and comes in various shapes and sizes.
- Natural materials: Some earrings are made from natural materials such as wood, bamboo, or bone. These materials are often less likely to cause an allergic reaction and can be a unique and eco-friendly earring option.
- Fine jewelry: This is also a great option because most fine jewelry is made from pure gold and silver and adorned with real gemstones. Pure metals like these are less likely to cause a problem than cheaper options.
The good news is there are plenty of affordable gold plated earrings. Here are a few we love.
Best Gold Plated Earrings
Chunky Gold Plated Hypoallergenic Hoop Earrings Set
Step up your accessories game with this awesome set of earrings. Our founder purchased these and absolutely loves them!
They’re super lightweight and are a great choice if you want to have options to pair with different outfits.
Gold Plated Hypoallergenic Studs & Hoops Set
If stud earrings are more your style, here’s a pack that offers 2 styles of hoops and 2 styles of studs, with the stud styles coming in 2 different sizes each.
Chunky Gold Platde Hypoallergenic Hoop Earrings
This set comes with 6 pairs of chunky hoops in varying sizes and styles. Whether you like a solid or braided look, there are plenty here to choose from.
How to make gold-plated earrings hypoallergenic
Did you know you can make gold-plated earrings hypoallergenic by applying a protective coating to them?
This is an excellent choice for gold-plated earrings because the plating is most likely to rub off of the stud, which is in direct contact with your ear.
- Purchase clear jewelry coating or clear nail polish. Both work fine. The idea is that they provide a barrier between your ear and the metal.
- Place a paper towel on a flat surface. Then wash the earring thoroughly and set it on the paper towel to dry.
- Once dry, coat one side of the earring with the jewelry coating or nail polish. Lay it polish side up on the paper towel to dry.
- Repeat the process with the other side of the earring to ensure it’s completely coated.
- Once it’s dry, use the earrings as you normally would. Because the coating comes between the metal and your ear, you shouldn’t see any adverse reactions.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether or not gold-plated earrings are ideal for people with skin allergies depends on the metal underneath the plating.
As long as you don’t break out or start itching, wearing gold-plated earrings is perfectly fine.
To make sure you can wear the earrings before purchasing them, examine each piece of jewelry carefully.
You need to know exactly what it’s made of, especially the earring posts, and how much of the piece is gold-plated. This way it’s easier for you to find the perfect pair of earrings.
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