Two of the most common problems with body piercings are allergic reactions and infections. Proper care and cleaning of piercings is crucial, but the type of metal piercing jewelry you choose is also very important. The following are the 3 best metals for body jewelry and two options to stay away from.
TOP 3 METALS FOR BODY JEWELRY:
#1 Titanium Implant
Titanium is by far the metal of choice for body piercing jewelry and can be safely used for initial piercings. G23 implant grade titanium (Ti6al4v-ELI) is the type of titanium used in surgical implants, is biocompatible, resistant to body fluids and contains no nickel. Titanium is also stronger and lighter than steel, giving us body piercing jewelry that is durable, comfortable, and nearly scratch-free. Titanium is an expensive metal, but it is well worth the slightly higher price. Titanium body jewelry is beautiful, lasts, and will look (the same after many years of wear).
#2 Surgical Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is the most common metal for body piercing jewelry and is just behind titanium when it comes to biocompatibility. 316L or 316LVM are the only two grades of stainless steel that are considered safe for use in healed piercings. Be aware that even the best grades of stainless steel contain nickel and can cause problems for those who are allergic to nickel. Some countries have banned the use of stainless steel for initial piercings, and it’s best to avoid stainless steel altogether until after the piercing is complete.
#3 Gold
Although beautiful, gold is not the best choice for body jewelry, especially for initial piercings or long-term wear. Because gold is a softer metal and is made from metal alloys, there is a somewhat higher risk of irritation or infection. Gold jewelry is beautiful, but it should only be worn in healed piercings and with care. Replace gold body jewelry with titanium at the first sign of irritation.
NOT RECOMMENDED:
Sterling silver: Do not buy body jewelry where the part that threads under the skin (bar, banana, ring) is made of silver. Sterling silver tarnishes when in contact with bodily fluids, can easily harbor bacterial growth, and may contain allergy-causing metals such as nickel. Body jewelry in which a sterling silver “charm” is attached to or dangles from the end of a steel or titanium bar is perfectly fine, as long as you’re not allergic to silver jewelry. Just make sure the part inside your body is made of a more biocompatible metal.
mysterious metal: Scary. Any “costume” or “plated” body jewelry is a bad idea, as is shoddy stainless steel. Stick with the top 3 options above to ensure your piercing remains free of irritation and infection.
Remember that body piercing jewelry is placed inside of you and should be treated more like a surgical implant than a piece of jewelry. Although it can be tempting to buy cheaper body jewelry, spending a little more for higher quality jewelry is definitely a better way to go in the long run.