Nickel Contact Allergy
Also known as: Nickel dermatitis, Metal allergy
Nickel is the most common cause of allergic contact dermatitis worldwide. The reaction occurs when nickel-containing metal contacts skin over time, causing an itchy, red, blistering rash at the point of contact.
Category
Contact Allergens
Severity
Mild to ModeratePrevalence
Affects 10–15% of women and 1–2% of men; particularly common from jewellery exposure.
Symptoms
Skin
- Itchy, red rash at contact site
- Dry, scaly patches
- Blisters and fluid-filled bumps
- Skin darkening at chronic contact sites
How It's Diagnosed
- Patch testing — the gold standard for contact allergy diagnosis
- A nickel-containing disc is applied under occlusion to the skin for 48 hours; read at 48 and 96 hours
- Differentiate from irritant contact dermatitis (no immune component, more immediate)
Avoidance Strategies
- Choose jewellery labelled '24-carat gold', 'surgical steel', or 'nickel-free'
- White gold often contains nickel — check the formulation
- Belt buckles, watch clasps, jeans studs, spectacle frames, and bra clips are common nickel sources
- Coat metal items with clear nail polish as a short-term barrier
- Avoid prolonged skin contact with coins, keys, or metal tools
Nickel in food: systemic contact dermatitis
A small subset of severely nickel-sensitised patients develop systemic contact dermatitis — widespread eczema triggered by dietary nickel. High-nickel foods include wholegrains, legumes, chocolate, nuts, and seeds.
A low-nickel diet is rarely necessary and should only be pursued under specialist guidance after patch-test confirmation of severe sensitivity.
Medical disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only. Allergy diagnosis and management must be carried out by a qualified allergist. Do not attempt to test yourself with suspected allergens. Always carry prescribed emergency medications and follow your written action plan.
Reviewed 2026-06-01 · Looms Medical Team