Sensitive Skin? Here’s the Safest Jewellery You Can Wear Daily
If you’ve ever worn a pair of earrings that left your lobes itching, or a necklace that caused redness and irritation, you aren’t alone. Sensitive skin is more common than most people realize, and the jewellery we wear plays a major role in how our skin responds. While certain metals and plating techniques can trigger allergic reactions, there are safer choices that allow you to enjoy beautiful accessories every day without compromise.
In this guide, we’ll explore why some jewellery causes irritation, which metals to avoid, and the safest materials for daily wear. And because choosing the right brand matters, we’ll also show how labels like October 22 are redefining jewellery for sensitive skin.
Why Jewellery Irritates Sensitive Skin
Skin sensitivity often begins with metal allergies, especially to nickel. Nickel is widely used in accessories because it’s inexpensive and durable, but it is also one of the most common allergens in the world. When it comes into contact with skin, it can cause:
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Redness and rashes
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Itching and dryness
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Swelling
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Tiny blisters
These reactions happen because your immune system treats nickel as a threat. Even trace amounts in plating can trigger discomfort.
Other irritants include:
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Low-grade metals mixed with rough alloys
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Sweat and moisture, which accelerate metal corrosion
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Poor-quality coatings that wear off quickly and expose the base metal
This is why one necklace may feel perfectly fine for a week then suddenly start burning your skin. It’s rarely “just you.” It’s the material.
The Safest Jewellery Materials for Sensitive Skin
Not all metals are created equal. Here are the best options if your skin is reactive, eczema-prone, or easily irritated.
1. Surgical-Grade Stainless Steel (316L)
316L stainless steel is a favourite among dermatologists because it is:
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Hypoallergenic
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Resistant to moisture and sweat
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Extremely durable
Unlike cheaper alloys, 316L is engineered to stay stable against skin oils and environmental interaction. It is often used in medical tools, implants, and high-grade watches, which speaks volumes about how skin-friendly it is.
2. PVD Gold Plating
Gold plating is often misunderstood. Traditional plating is thin, wears off quickly, and exposes irritant metals. PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) is different. It is applied using a high-tech vacuum process that bonds gold to the metal surface, creating:
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Higher durability
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Better color retention
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Greater resistance to wear and sweat
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Zero peeling effect
This makes it ideal for daily jewellery that won’t tarnish or harm your skin.
3. Solid Gold (14k and Above)
Solid gold is naturally hypoallergenic if the alloy has low nickel content. 18k gold tends to be safer than 14k because it contains a higher percentage of pure gold. However, it’s far more expensive and delicate, making it less practical for daily use.
4. Platinum
Platinum is one of the most skin-friendly jewellery metals. It doesn't oxidize, won’t tarnish, and rarely causes reactions. The downside? It comes with a luxury price tag.
Why Brand Choice Matters
Even if two necklaces say “gold-plated,” their real-world performance may be drastically different. Some brands use low-cost base metals, thin plating, or poor craftsmanship. The result? Tarnish, discoloration, and irritation within months.
This is why choosing a trusted demi-fine jewellery brand matters. Quality brands invest in hypoallergenic base metals and plating technologies designed for longevity—not just aesthetics.
How October 22 Protects Sensitive Skin
If you want modern jewellery that feels comfortable on sensitive skin, October 22 offers a smart middle ground between fast fashion and fine jewellery.
Their pieces are made from 316L surgical-grade stainless steel, a metal known for being skin-safe and durable. Instead of standard coating, they use premium 18k PVD gold plating, a method that provides strong resistance to tarnish, humidity, and wear.
What does that mean for you?
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No itchy rash after a long day
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No green marks on your neck or fingers
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No fear of showering or sweating with it on
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No sensitive skin flare-ups
These are everyday pieces built to last—without costing as much as fine jewellery or sacrificing comfort.
Daily Jewellery Tips for Sensitive Skin
Even with high-quality metals, a little care goes a long way:
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Clean Regularly : Sweat, lotion, and natural oils can irritate. Wipe your jewellery with a soft cloth after use.
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Avoid Mixing Materials: When wearing multiple layered pieces, stick to the same metal family. This reduces friction and chemical reactions.
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Remove Jewellery During Heavy Workout: Anti-tarnish materials can handle moisture, but physical abrasion can still wear them down over time.
Signs That Your Jewellery Isn’t Safe for You
You should never ignore these symptoms:
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Persistent itching or redness where jewellery sits
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Increased sensitivity after a few hours of wear
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Discoloration on the skin (green or grey)
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Peeling plating after a few weeks
If this happens, the metal is reacting with your skin. Switch to hypoallergenic materials immediately.
Final Thoughts
Having sensitive skin shouldn’t mean giving up on jewellery you love. The key is choosing pieces made from skin-safe metals and advanced plating materials designed for real life, not just display. Brands like October 22 show that you don’t need to pay luxury-level prices to enjoy jewellery that is elegant, durable, hypoallergenic, and truly everyday-friendly.
If you’ve been avoiding accessories due to irritation, now you know: with the right materials, your skin and your style can both thrive.
