Is Surgical Steel Nickel Free?

If you've been looking for jewellery for sensitive skin, you've probably come across the term surgical steel. It's often described as one of the best metals for sensitive ears, but there's also a lot of confusing information online about what it actually is.

One of the biggest myths is that surgical steel is completely nickel free. It isn't.

So, what exactly is surgical steel, and why do so many people with sensitive skin find they can wear it comfortably?

What is surgical steel?

Surgical steel is a type of stainless steel that was originally developed for use in medical instruments and tools because of its strength, durability and resistance to corrosion.

The grade most commonly used for high quality jewellery is 316L surgical stainless steel. Which is made of a blend of metals, including:

• Iron
• Chromium
• Nickel
• Molybdenum

That all play an important role in making surgical steel strong, long-lasting and resistant to rust and tarnishing.

So, is surgical steel nickel free?

No. This is one of the biggest misconceptions about surgical steel.

316L surgical stainless steel does contain nickel. However, the nickel is bound within the alloy, rather than sitting on the surface and coming into contact with the skin.

For many people with sensitive skin, this makes surgical steel much more comfortable than jewellery made from cheaper metal alloys.

However, everyone's skin is different. If you have a diagnosed or severe nickel allergy, it's always worth seeking medical advice about which jewellery materials are most suitable for you.

Why do so many people with sensitive ears choose surgical steel?

There are several reasons why surgical steel has become such a popular choice.

Surgical steel is:

• Durable and hard-wearing.
• Resistant to rust and tarnishing.
• Easy to clean.
• Comfortable for everyday wear.
• A great choice for many people with sensitive skin.

While no jewellery material can guarantee that every person will be reaction free, surgical steel has earned its reputation because many people find they can wear it comfortably every day.

Why I chose surgical steel for Little Gems Jewels

When I first discovered 316L surgical stainless steel, I was simply looking for earrings that my own sensitive ears could tolerate.

Like many people, I'd found that earrings were just irritating and uncomfortable. My ears would become sore, and I'd find myself taking them out straight away.

The first time I wore surgical steel earrings, I remember realising something was different ... I couldn't even feel I was wearing them. For me, that was a real lightbulb moment.

It made me realise that wearing earrings didn't have to mean putting up with discomfort. I wanted to help other people who'd had the same experience rediscover the joy of wearing jewellery every day.

That's why every pair of Little Gems Jewels stud earrings is made using 316L surgical stainless steel.

I'm also passionate about being honest about the materials I use. You'll never see me claim that surgical steel is nickel free, because that simply isn't true. Instead, I'd rather explain exactly what it is, why it's different, and let you decide whether it's the right choice for you.

Everyone's skin is unique, so I can't promise that one material will suit every single person. But I can promise that every piece I make is chosen with comfort, quality and honesty at its heart.

What about titanium?

While I absolutely love surgical steel, my favourite completely nickel free jewellery metal is Grade 1 titanium.

Unlike surgical steel, Grade 1 titanium contains no nickel at all. It's incredibly lightweight, resistant to corrosion and is sometimes referred to as medical grade titanium because of its excellent biocompatibility.

This would be a great alternative metal if you happen to be one of the few unlucky people that just can't wear surgical steel.

At Little Gems Jewels, I currently make some drop stud earrings with Grade 1 titanium posts, and you can also choose either surgical steel or titanium hooks for many of my drop earrings.

I will be gradually adding more titanium designs to my collection too. Because I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy wearing jewellery comfortably, whatever their level of sensitivity.

Whether you choose surgical steel or titanium, my hope is that you'll find jewellery you can enjoy wearing comfortably and confidently every day.