We are always excited to see educational articles about nickel allergy, so the recent Reader’s Digest publication definitely got our attention. This article entitled “7 Allergies That Are On The Rise – and Why You’re Likely at Risk” highlighted nickel allergy as the first among seven. Author Kaitlyn Chamberlin provided excellent introductory information that will be helpful to those who have been recently diagnosed with nickel allergy or those who may be suspecting that their itchy rashes are caused by nickel.
It is always interesting for us to hear from customers who were not familiar with nickel allergy until they or a family member became sensitized. Through articles such as this one, more people are understanding this malady so they may then successfully manage their diagnosis.
The article's recommendation to purchase a nickel test kit at a pharmacy isn't a valid suggestion, as dmg spot tests for nickel are not currently available in drugstores. Our parent company, Athena Allergy, Inc. was the first organization to develop a pre-mixed and pre-measured nickel test so that consumers could easily and safely test for nickel at home. Nickel Alert™ has been on the market for over a decade and is so accurate it can detect nickel at the extremely low level of 10 parts per million. Just click on this link for additional information found on the NoNickel.com website: Nickel Alert dmg spot test for nickel.
The only “cure” for nickel allergy is avoidance, so detecting nickel in metal is a critical first step. The second step is to protect the skin from nickel when contact is unpreventable. Nickel Guard™ is another of our pioneer products whose introduction was met with critical acclaim. Clinically tested and proven to be safe and effective, this product has been manufactured without toluene, dibutyl phthalate, and formaldehyde. These harsh chemicals often cause skin irritations and should be avoided by those with sensitive skin and nickel or metal allergy.
It is critical that those with nickel allergy understand the difference in labels. Unfortunately, the purchase of an item labeled "hypoallergenic" or "nickel free" does not necessarily mean there is zero nickel in that product. NoNickel.com owners Michael and Lea Dow established the "Certified Nickel Free™" designation as a way for buyers to know the goods have been tested both pre- and post-manufacture to assure there is no nickel present to cause a nickel allergy reaction.
Chamberlin, Kaitlyn. "7 Allergies That Are On The Rise - and Why You're Likely at Risk". Reader's Digest. Accessed March 28, 2017. http://www.rd.com/health/wellness/allergies-on-the-rise/
