Metal allergy

[Anonymous]

Over the past 6 months I've developed an allergy to the buckle (but apparently not the main body) of my stainless steel watch. I develop an ugly very itchy rash that forms dry scar tissue as it heals. I love this watch, I've had it for about 5 years, it's not fully depreciated! Any suggestions?

[Anonymous]

Are you sure it's an allergy?

The reason I ask is b/c it's not immediate - you've been wearing the watch for several months.

I had something similar with my wedding band - wore it for months and then I got this red itchy skin on my finger by my knuckle.

I tried all different kinds of creams, lotions, washing the ring, special soaps, etc.

The dermatologist said it could be a combo. of my sweat/body oils combining with the metal(s) of the wedding band. I got an steroid cream which eased the itchiness, but, to this day it really hasn't gone away.

[Anonymous]

I have this problem with metals. You are probably allergic to nickel. About 25% of the population is.

Ideas: Can you update to a more expensive band, without nickel? That should help.

Can you coat the buckle with clear nail polish?

[Anonymous]

I would go to a jeweler and see if they can replace the buckle with something that is 100% stainless steel, or some other material that is not allergenic. I agree with PP, most people are allergic to nickel. I wonder if they use it for strength or durability purposes, since it seems to be in the buckle and not the band itself. But it can't hurt to ask a good jeweler if replacement is possible.