Home Remedies For Nickel Allergy

Nickel allergy is seen when your body is exposed to nickel and your immune system thinks of it as an intruder and releases substances to fight it off, triggering an allergic reaction to nickel. It is the commonest cause of allergic contact dermatitis seen in people.⁽¹⁾

Certain home remedies may help in curing or soothing a nickel allergy. However, if these alternative treatment methods do not work, it is best to show your doctor for any further assistance-

Soothing lotions like calamine lotion may help in relieving the itching.⁽²⁾

• The skin consists of a natural protective layer. When the skin is exposed to nickel allergy, this layer is affected due to its reaction to the nickel allergy.
• Lotions or emollient creams may help in decreasing the use of corticosteroids for local application for nickel allergy.
• Examples of emollient creams are petroleum jelly or mineral oil.⁽²⁾

• Using a wet compress may help in relieving itching and soothe dry blisters.
• A wet compress can be done by soaking a clean cloth in Burrow’s solution or clean tap water.
• Burrow’s solution is an over-the-counter medication that consists of aluminum acetate.⁽²⁾

There is no cure for nickel allergy. However, certain medications and treatment methods may help in soothing the rash and irritation. These methods may include-

Medicines help in soothing the rash and irritation. The medicines that may be used to treat nickel allergy are-

These can be taken in an oral form or applied to the rash in the topical form.

• These are available in cream forms to be applied directly at the site of the rash.
• However, these medicines cannot be used for a long period of time due to eth risk of serious side effects that they give.
• Examples may include betamethasone dipropionate creams, clobetasol creams, etc.

• These are used only when the rash or allergy is severe and does not go away with the local application of medication.
• These medicines have serious side effects when used for a prolonged duration. Examples include prednisone
• Other medications include oral antihistamines and non- steroidal creams.

• These may be effective in reducing allergic itching.
• However, they may not be very useful in treating skin itching.
• Examples may include fexofenadine, cetirizine etc.

• These may be effective in treating rashes and irritation.
• However, they may pose a common side effect of stinging at the site of application.
• Examples may include pimecrolimus, tacrolimus etc.

Phototherapy is a treatment method in which the skin is exposed to artificial ultraviolet light but in controlled amounts. This treatment, however, is saved for those people who do not respond to any other form of treatment methods or medications.

The nickel allergy itself cannot be stopped from occurring. However, it can be avoided by following some simple strategies, like –

wearing nickel-free jewelry may help you avoid the nickel allergy

• Choose a studio that provides you with a clean, sanitary and a professional environment
• Also, make sure to ask the piercer to use sterile and nickel-free jewelry

Use substitutes for common use items that contain nickel, like watchbands, buckle belts, zippers, buttons, hooks, etc

• Avoiding direct contact with nickel may help in avoiding nickel allergy.
• For instance, if you work in an occupation that needs you to touch nickel directly with bare hands, wearing gloves may be the solution, and likewise.

There is no cure for nickel allergy itself. However, the allergy can be avoided by avoiding the use of things and products containing nickel. Some home remedies can help in soothing the rash and irritation caused by nickel allergy.

References:  

Also Read:

• Best Exercises/Activities For Nickel Allergy
• Can You Die From Nickel Allergy?
• How Common Is Nickel Allergy Or Is It A Rare Disease?
• How Does Nickel Allergy Affect The Body & What Triggers It?
• Can A Nickel Allergy Cause Stomach Pain & What About Headaches?
• Coping Methods For Nickel Allergy