Metal Allergy Q&A

Why do metal allergies occur?

The surface of the metal reacts with moisture (such as sweat) and dissolves, forming metal ions.
These metal ions combine with proteins to form "metal-protein complexes" which, when absorbed into the body,
become allergens that cause allergic symptoms, such as itching.

Do metal allergy symptoms appear immediately?

Metal allergy is a delayed-type allergy.
It is said to take about 6 hours for symptoms to appear.

If I don't touch metal products, will I not experience allergic reactions?

In addition to "contact-type" metal allergies, where the area touched by accessories becomes irritated, there is also
"systemic-type" allergy, which occurs when metal from dental fillings or food dissolves in sweat.

Why is titanium less likely to cause allergies?

Titanium combines with oxygen in the air to form a strong oxide film.
This film suppresses ionization by sweat and other factors, making it less likely to cause allergies.

What materials are most likely to cause metal allergies?

Materials containing nickel, chromium, cobalt, etc., are said to be particularly prone to causing allergic symptoms.
These are materials where metal easily dissolves in water and ionizes.
Leger does not use products made from these materials, so please be assured.
Also, while gold and platinum are considered less likely to cause allergies, if they are alloys with other metals,
skin irritation may occur.

Is titanium completely safe from allergies?

Titanium is a metal that is particularly unlikely to cause allergic reactions, but in rare cases, titanium itself can be the cause of symptoms.
Additionally, symptoms vary from person to person, so unfortunately, we cannot guarantee "absolute safety."
If you wish to identify the metals that cause your allergies beforehand, a patch test at a medical institution is recommended.

Why isn't "pure titanium" 100%?

Pure titanium refers to titanium with high purity.
The material Leger uses is JIS Class 2, a type of pure titanium that is the most suitable for processing into accessories.
(Pure titanium is categorized into Class 1 to Class 4 depending on the content of iron and other chemical components like oxygen.)
The content and proportions of chemical components are as follows:
JIS Class 2
・N (Nitrogen) 0.03% or less
・C (Carbon) 0.08% or less
・H (Hydrogen) 0.013% or less
・Fe (Iron) 0.25% or less
・O (Oxygen) 0.20% or less
・Ti (Titanium) Remainder

Are there any products that are not made of pure titanium?

Some products are manufactured using titanium alloys rather than pure titanium, or with rhodium-plated parts.
Please check the "Material" section in the product details.

I don't have a metal allergy, but are there any precautions I should take?

During seasons when you sweat a lot, such as summer, allergic reactions are more likely to occur, and even people who are usually fine may experience irritation or itching.
Avoid items that stick to your skin and use materials that are less likely to cause allergies.
Additionally, allergens can enter through wounds or irritated skin, which can cause an allergic reaction.
Please enjoy your accessories on clean skin.

If you want to deepen your understanding of metal allergies, click here↓