FAQ's Nickel Allergy and Nickel Solution

Q: Why are my earrings/jewelry bothering me now? They never have before.

A: There may be several reasons why you are having problems with your jewelry. First, nickel allergy is progressive. Repeated exposure to nickel over time will cause nickel allergy to develop in some people.

Second, the plating or overlay on the item may have worn off-even microscopically-exposing you to nickel.

Q: None of my metal items tested positive. What is wrong?

A: This is good news. A negative test provides valuable information. A negative test means these items are safe to wear! Continue testing all metal items you come in contact with on a regular basis.

Some additional tips
- Review directions for the nickel test making sure to place 2-3 drops of Nickel Alert on a cotton swab. Rub metal item firmly for 15-30 seconds with the swab.
 
-To demonstrate a positive test for nickel, rub a nickel coin. All nickel coins contain 25% nickel. It will turn the swab pink/red.

-If metal items have been cleaned prior to testing, allow an hour or so before retesting. Nickel Alert works by testing for oxidized nickel ions.

-Don't forget to check our list of common items that contain nickel. If you find a unique item, contact us at info@athenaallergy.com and we will add it to the list!

Q: What does a positive test result look like?
A: To demonstrate a positive test for nickel, rub a nickel coin. All nickel coins contain 25% nickel. It will turn the swab pink/red.

Q: What if the cotton swab turns brown, yellow or a different color?
A: If the item tested is free of dirt and oil, cobalt may be present in addition to nickel. Cobalt also causes allergies, though not as often. The item should be protected with Nickel Guard.

Q: How often should Nickel Guard be re-applied?
A: It depends on use. If you are wearing the item regularly and in hot or moist conditions, re-application more frequently will be necessary.

If you are unsure whether reapplication is needed, test the item with Nickel Alert! Nickel Alert was designed to test without destroying the barrier properties of Nickel Guard.

Tips for maximum protection:
- Apply three (3) thin layers of Nickel Guard to your item. Let each layer air dry a minimum of 15 minutes     before next application.
-Take care to coat the areas where metal makes contact with the skin.

Q: Can I buy Nickel Alert or Nickel Guard separately?
A: Yes. We recommend that you first purchase Nickel Solution which contains both Nickel Alert and Nickel Guard in order to both detect nickel and protect from it.

Q: What does nickel allergy look like?
A. Nickel allergy is a very common form of Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD). A rash develops after contact with nickel and may appear have the following characteristic(s): redness, itching, swelling, hives, and/or cracks. Please visit our Nickel Allergy—What does it look like? page for a gallery of nickel allergy images.

Q: How do I know if I am allergic to nickel?
A: You should consult your physician to be tested. Nickel Alert is not a test for nickel allergy.

Q: Can I test my skin for nickel allergy with Nickel Alert?
A. NO. Nickel Alert is not intended as a test for nickel allergy or to be used on the skin. Please use only as directed.

Q: Can I apply Nickel Guard to my skin?
A: NO. Nickel Guard is not intended for application to the skin. Please use only as directed.

Q: How many uses or tests are in Nickel Alert?
A: You should be able to test about 150 items.

Q: How many applications are in Nickel Guard?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question. It is dependant on the area covered of each item and usage. You can reorder Nickel Guard separately from Nickel Solution if you run out.

Q: When can I expect my order of Nickel Solution?
A: All orders received by 1:00 pm EST are shipped the same day. Orders are shipped surface mail via United States Postal Service which requires several extra shipping days. If you have not received your order within 10 business days (excluding weekends & holidays) after purchase, please e-mail us info@athenaallergy.com ©

2009 Athena Allergy Inc. All rights reserved. Dermatologist and Allergist Recommended