Dealing with an allergy to nickel can be a difficult problem; so many common items contain the metal that it is hard for nickel-sensitive persons to avoid it. It is found in such things as coins, medallions, scissors, thimbles, needles, zippers, buckles, garters, clips, hairpins, curlers, pens, and costume jewelry. It is also hidden in stainless-steel materials, products made of alnico, Ticonium, and Invar, and chrome-plated items. Even expensive gold jewelry is alloyed with nickel to give it strength.

As with all allergic contact dermatitis reactions, the rash of nickel allergy appears at the points of contact and often is the size and shape of the metal object that provoked it. For example, identification tag and necklace reactions typically involve the upper chest and back; hairpin, curler, and eyeglass reactions, the scalp and face; coin and scissor allergies, the fingers; and earrings, the earlobes. Regardless of what item is the culprit, however, nickel allergies typically appear as itchy, red, scaly rashes within hours of contact.

As in the case of poison ivy rashes, prevention is the best form of therapy, and all known nickel-containing items should be avoided as much as possible. Moreover, since moisture and sweating increase the likelihood of nickel rashes in susceptible persons, the frequent dusting of talcum powder at areas of contact, such as under watches, can be helpful in reducing possible reactions. And if you don't want to give up wearing jewelry altogether, special hypoallergenic surgical stainless-steel and sterling silver jewelry is available. Alternatively, you may try covering your favorite earrings with a thick layer of lacquer to prevent direct contact with the nickel.

Once you know for sure that you are allergic to nickel, a testing product known as the SpotTest kit, which contains the chemical dimethylglyoxime, may be used to test household items and jewelry for the presence of nickel. A small amount of the clear liquid testing solution is applied with a cotton swab to the item to be tested. If the object contains nickel, a pink or red color appears. Each kit is usually-good for about two hundred tests.

Topical corticosteroids are the treatment of choice for severe, acute, or chronic nickel rashes.