Are Gold Plated Earrings Good for Sensitive Ears?

Having sensitive skin may limit the jewelry material options you can wear. Oftentimes, people with sensitive skin get easily irritated by pieces containing nickel in their alloy. This may make them wonder whether are gold plated earrings good for sensitive ears, or if they need to rely on pure gold jewelry only.

If you are one of these people, we’ll be happy to unveil the truth behind the gold-plated jewelry! Read on to discover how is gold-plated jewelry made and whether it is a safe or unsafe option for sensitive ears.

Source: shutterstock.com / Photo Contributor: Otavio Pires

Are Gold Plated Earrings Good for Sensitive Ears

Gold-plated earrings could be an option, but they are not the ideal one. While thicker gold plating acts as a barrier against nickel and copper in the base metal, under the gold plating, the base metal still contains nickel and even the slightest scratch lets it come to the surface. If the gold plating gets scratched, it may irritate your sensitive skin.

But if you choose gold-plated earrings made with hypoallergenic materials like sterling silver or titanium as the base, you're more likely to avoid irritation or allergic reactions.

Gold-plated earrings, including 18K gold-plated ones, may not always be the best option for sensitive ears, especially if the base metal underneath the gold contains like nickel or copper. While the 18K gold plating itself is usually safe for sensitive skin, the thin gold layer can wear off over time, exposing the underlying metal. This exposure can lead to allergic reactions or irritation, especially if you are sensitive to the metal.

We advise you to follow these steps to prevent gold-plated earrings from hurting your skin.

Choose nickel-free base metals – look for those with a hypoallergenic base metal, such as titanium, surgical stainless steel, or brass. This reduces the risk of irritation once the plating wears off.

Clean regularly – clean your earrings with a soft cloth to remove oils and dirt, which can quickly break down the gold layer.

Apply a barrier – to create a protective barrier, apply a thin coat of clear nail polish to the part of the earring that touches your skin. 

Discuss the Different Metals for Earrings

Nickel allergy is the most common. If you are prone to allergies and have sensitive skin, you may benefit from choosing earrings made from hypoallergenic metals. 

One of the most common choices is the surgical stainless steel. This metal is highly durable, and it is unlikely to cause allergic reactions. Titanium is another lightweight and hypoallergenic option for those prone to metal allergies. 

While sterling silver (925 silver) is mostly safe, it can contain small amounts of copper, which may cause irritation to some. Finally, pure gold (18k or higher) is less likely to cause allergies. Avoiding nickel and opting for hypoallergenic metals like titanium or surgical steel is important for sensitive ears.

How to choose the right earrings for sensitive ears

Choosing the right earrings for sensitive skin can be tricky, especially if dealing with metal allergies and skin sensitivities. Wearing the wrong earring type can cause irritation, inflammation, and discomfort for individuals with sensitive ears. That is why it is important to understand the causes of ear sensitivity and learn how to select hypoallergenic earrings to make these issues easier.

Several factors contribute to ear sensitivity. Two main issues often trigger ear sensitivity: metal allergies and naturally sensitive skin. Both conditions can manifest in redness, itching, and swelling around the earlobes when unsuitable materials are worn for extended periods. People with sensitive ears often need to pay attention to the materials used in earrings and consider the coating or finish that might come into contact with their skin. 

Source: shutterstock.com / Photo Contributor: Ander5

Conclusion

So, are gold plated earrings good for sensitive ears? Gold-plated earrings may not be the best option for you if you are dealing with sensitive skin because the base metal still contains traces of nickel and copper.

If you are prone to metal allergies, we advise you to opt for materials such as titanium or surgical stainless steel. Now, are gold plated earrings safe? Yes, they are safe if you do not have metal allergies or sensitive ears. 

If you still want to wear gold-plated earrings, make sure to wear them for a limited time, apply a protective barrier, and clean them regularly. Still, for those prone to allergies, we advise nickel-free base metals.