With Reflexologist Nuria Weaver
Home Remedies for Nickel Allergy
Nickel allergy is a reaction in the immune system that is growing in recent years as it is found in fancy cheap jewellery. The allergy is caused by the nickel salt that is formed under the effect of perspiration when in contact with the piece of jewellery or a watch. If you observe the object is always accompanied by corrosion. And it is more likely to occur among the people who directly come in contact with the metal through skin.
Nickel is found in nature which is mixed with other metals to produce alloys. This nickel alloys are used to make costume jewellery, coins, watchbands, rings, necklaces, bracelets, hairpins, zippers, eyeglass frames, pens, utensils, handles and found in most of the everyday items.
It is estimated that around 10 to 12 % of the female population and about 6% of the male population are allergic to nickel. The degree of reaction to the metal differs in each an every individual and once the allergy develops it may become chronic and life-long.
Nickel Test
It can be tested by going to the dermatologist for a patch test which is a safe skin test procedure. It involves a direct application of the metal in tiny quantities which is enough to cause a positive response in allergy people.
Nickel Allergy Symptoms
The allergy usually begins within 12 to 48 hours and can persist for a time span of two to four weeks. The symptoms may appear on the skin which comes in contact with nickel and in some cases appear elsewhere on the body. The signs of contact dermatitis caused by the metal are as follows:
- A bump on the skin with a rash
- Severe itching
- Skin color may change and appear to be red.
- Dry patches of skin resembling a burn
- And in severe case there may be blisters and draining fluid.
The symptoms worsen when there is sweating at the point of contact.
There are some home remedies for nickel allergy that can be opt for the treatment of the allergy, some of which are as follows:
Home remedy for nickel allergy using lotion and paste
- A soothing lotion such as a calamine lotion that alleviates the entire itching problem can be applied by putting it on the cotton and dabbing on the rash. The lotion becomes dry and hardens on the skin.
- Applying cortisone cream that has aloe. Aloe, a natural healer can be used to get rid of the rash quickly and reduces inflammation and itching. It should be applied every two to three hours.
- Sandalwood and limejuice can be used to make a paste that can be applied on the affected area to get relief from the itching.
- Five grams of garden mint and water is used to make a paste. After sieving the water, add 12 grams of sugar and drink this syrup twice a day.
Home remedy for nickel allergy using water
- Washing the infected area with anti-bacterial soap and warm water will clean the rash before the application of any cream.
- Water is one of the best home remedy for nickel allergy or any kind of allergy. Drinking 3 to 4 liters of water will help removing toxins from the body that are responsible for a weak immune system.
Home remedy for nickel allergy using a home-made compress
- The compress can be made by using a part of vinegar to 16 parts of water in a bowl and mix it. Soak a washed cloth in it and wring it so that it stops dripping and then put it on the rash. This dries out the blisters ,cools the area and relieves itching as well.
Home remedy for nickel allergy using citrus fruits
- Take one teaspoon of lime juice and a teaspoon of water; to this add a tablespoon of crushed poppy seeds. Apply this on the affected area for instant relief from all types of skin allergies.
- Lemon juice has anti-inflammatory agents that aids a lot of skin allergies. You can also try squeezing undiluted lemon directly on the affected area. Allow it dry on the skin and repeat this whenever necessary.
Home remedy for nickel allergy using salve
- A salve can be prepared at home using burdock root, yarrow and a yellow dock root. Steep them in boiling water for 30 minutes and strain the liquid into a stock pot. Add a pond of vegetable shortening and boil it until a salve-like consistency is reached. After cooling use it on the rash directly.
Home remedy for nickel allergy using tea
- The affected area can be bathed in tea which is prepared from yellow dock root, burdock root, golden seal root or yarrow. These herbs have powerful anti-itching properties.
The best thing to do if one is allergic to nickel is to drop the use of the metal or use some preventive measures like applying clear nail polish to rings and earrings as it prevents the metal to dissolve in sweat.
Home Remedies for Bladder Infections
Home Remedies for Dark Circles
Home Remedies for Hyperthyroidism
Home Remedies for Morning Sickness
A List of Alternative Therapies