Erin Dunn, a healthcare worker from Atlanta, Georgia, experienced a terrifying ordeal when she developed an ‘extremely painful’ rash that spread around her eyes, ears, lips, and hands. Despite trying various remedies and lifestyle changes for six months, nothing seemed to provide relief until she removed her faux-gold earrings.
Within 24 hours of ditching her inexpensive jewelry, Dunn noticed a significant improvement in her condition, leading her to believe she had developed an allergy to nickel, a common metal found in jewelry. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi explained that nickel can cause scaly, dry, and painful eczema patches on the skin, which aligns with Dunn’s symptoms.
Dunn shared her story on TikTok, where it garnered over 1.1 million views, prompting other users to share their experiences with metal allergies and eczema. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 18 percent of Americans, including over 11 million children, have a nickel allergy, making it a prevalent issue.
While Dunn’s case highlights the importance of being mindful of the materials used in accessories, Dr. Shirazi reassured that once the allergen is removed, the rashes typically resolve on their own. If symptoms persist, soothing creams containing aloe or hydrocortisone can help alleviate discomfort.
Overall, Dunn’s journey serves as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers lurking in everyday items like jewelry, reinforcing the need for awareness and vigilance when it comes to skin health and allergies.
