Men’s Wedding Bands Allergy? We Can Help.

You’ve found the perfect life partner, and the big day is fast approaching. A fashionable suit, personalized wedding vows, and a breathtaking venue are all lined up. But there’s one small hitch: every time you try on a wedding band, your finger turns into a red, itchy mess. 

Metal allergies can make shopping for men’s wedding bands challenging but not impossible when you’re armed with information. 

In our latest guide, you can learn about which metals cause the most reactions, plus how to find hypoallergenic alternatives that don’t skimp on style. 

What is a metal allergy?

Your friends might crack bad jokes about you being allergic to marriage, but metal allergies are no laughing matter. A metal allergy is a type of contact dermatitis that causes your skin to negatively react to certain alloys. 

That red, itchy rash and swelling that happens is your body’s way of throwing a mini tantrum every time it’s exposed to a metal it doesn’t like. 

Besides the redness, itching, and swelling that is common to metal allergies, another more severe symptom can include blistering and peeling of the skin in the exposed area. Symptoms can pop up quickly or take a day or two to surface after the initial contact. 

How to get medical confirmation of a metal allergy 

Trying on men’s wedding bands may be the first time you’re exposed to a metal that makes you break out. If you’ve never had that kind of reaction before, it’s best not to assume it’s an allergic reaction until you have it confirmed by a medical professional. 

Start by visiting your primary care doctor or a dermatologist. Explain your symptoms and any patterns you noticed, such as skin reactions when wearing certain metals or using metal objects. 

Your doctor likely will recommend a patch test. A common method for diagnosing allergens that cause contact dermatitis, a patch test works like this:

• Your doctor exposes you to small amounts of potential allergens, including different metals, through patches placed on your skin. 
• Once in place, the patches with the suspected allergens stay in place for up to 48 hours. 
• After the patches are removed, your doctor examines the exposed areas for signs of allergic reaction immediately and again in a few days. 

Sometimes you can get blood tests for metal allergies. However, patch testing is more effective. 

Which metals cause the most sensitivities?

Some metals are notorious for causing allergic reactions. It’s easier to make informed decisions about men’s wedding bands once you understand which metals are most likely to trigger sensitivities.  

One of the biggest culprits is nickel. Many wedding rings are made partially of nickel, which can be a problem if you’re among the unfortunate people sensitive to it. Jewelers sometimes add nickel to 14k or 18k gold to make it harder (and less susceptible to damage). 

Another frequent offender is cobalt. A white metal similar in color to white gold and platinum, cobalt is prized for its sturdiness and affordability. 

Lastly, chrome can lead to contact dermatitis. While not as common as allergies to nickel and cobalt, chrome sensitivities can still cause redness and itchiness in the people it affects. 

What are wedding band solutions for men with metal allergies?

Plenty of stylish and comfortable men’s wedding bands exist that don’t include the metals most likely to cause irritation. You can opt for rings made from hypoallergenic materials or have a protective coating put on your wedding ring to create a barrier between the metal and your skin. 

Hypoallergenic men’s wedding bands

One of the most popular solutions is to choose a wedding band made from hypoallergenic metals to significantly reduce the risk of allergic reactions. 

Some top options include:

• Platinum. A naturally hypoallergenic material, platinum is an excellent choice for men with sensitive skin. As a bonus, it’s also incredibly durable and tarnish-resistant. One of the only drawbacks is that platinum is expensive compared to other metals, making it a major investment. It also feels heavier on your finger, which may not appeal to every man. 
• Titanium. A lightweight – yet sturdy – metal, titanium is a popular choice for men with active lifestyles and potential metal allergies. Another perk is it’s more affordable than platinum and has a modern, sleek look. The only drawback is men’s wedding bands made of titanium are difficult to resize because of the metal’s hardness. 
• Palladium. Part of the platinum group of metals, palladium shares many of the same hypoallergenic properties. It’s lighter and less expensive than platinum, making it an attractive alternative. It’s also customizable, allowing for embellishments unique to your love story. The only drawback is palladium has a more limited range of designs compared to other metals. 

Alternative men’s wedding band materials

No hard and fast rule exists that says you must have a metal wedding band. Silicone and ceramic wedding bands have gained popularity for their ability to offer unique benefits that cater to comfort and fashion. 

Durable and hypoallergenic, these alternatives to traditional metal men’s wedding bands provide the perfect solution to red, itchy fingers. 

Silicone rings are flexible, comfortable, and hypoallergenic. The only drawbacks are they can stretch and break under pressure and can wear out faster than a traditional metal ring. 

Ceramic bands are durable, scratch-resistant, and don’t cause an allergic reaction. You can get them in various colors and finishes for a modern and stylish look. While ceramic is strong, it’s not indestructible. It can crack or shatter under certain circumstances. 

Find hypoallergenic men’s wedding bands 

Choosing men’s wedding bands is an important part of planning your ceremony. However, it shouldn’t come with the discomfort of allergic reactions. 

Before you give up on finding a symbol of your eternal love for all the world to see, stop by our showroom. We can help you choose a ring that doesn’t leave your skin angry and irritated.