FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why are my earrings bothering me now, they never have before?
None of my metal items tested positive. What is wrong?
What does a positive test result look like?
What if the cotton applicator is brown?
What if the cotton applicator turns yellow?
How often should I re-apply Nickel Guard?
Where can I buy Nickel Guard or Nickel Alert?
Can I buy just Nickel Guard or Nickel Alert?
What does nickel allergy look like?
How do I know if I am allergic to nickel?
Can I test my skin for nickel allergy with Nickel Alert?
Can I apply Nickel Guard to my skin?
How many uses or tests are in Nickel Alert?
How many applications are there in Nickel Guard?

 

Q: Why are my earrings bothering me now, they never have before?
A: Nickel allergy is progressive. Repeated exposure over time will cause nickel allergy to develop in some people.  Another possible reason is that a plating or overlay on the item may have worn off.

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 -- Make sure the metal items are clean prior to testing. Dirt or oils can mask a positive test. Test a nickel coin to see what a true positive reaction looks like.

Don't forget to check our list of potential items. If you find a unique item, let us know and we will add it to the list!

Q: What does a positive test result look like?
A: Any pink on the cotton applicator indicates nickel is present. A nickel coin contains 25% nickel and will illicit a classic positive reaction. (See photo to the right).


Q: What if the cotton applicator is brown?
A: A brown color indicates dirt or oil. Clean the item with rubbing alcohol or soap and water and test again in a few minutes.

Q: What if the cotton applicator turns yellow?
A: A yellow color indicates Cobalt. Cobalt too causes allergies, though not as often, and should be protected with Nickel Guard^TM.

Q: How often should I re-apply Nickel Guard?
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.

Q: Where can I buy Nickel Guard^TM or Nickel Alert^TM?
A: Any of our distributors will be happy to take your order.

Q: Can I buy just Nickel Guard or Nickel Alert?
A: Sorry, currently they are only sold as a kit.

Q: What does nickel allergy look like?
A: Nickel allergy appears as red, itchy rash and could have raised welts.

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. Please use only as directed.

Q: Can I apply Nickel Guard to my skin?
A: No. Nickel Guard is not intended for application to 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 there in Nickel Guard?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question. It is dependent on the area covered of each item.

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