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While many Apple Watch users have reported having an allergic reaction to nickel which is present in small concentrations in the watch. Apple has since begun working to minimize the issue.
Little About Nickel Allergy
Nickel allergy is a widespread type of metal allergy that affects a considerable proportion of the population. While not everyone who would have it may feel the need to do something about it. Considering most of the time an allergic reaction due to it is mild – at best. However, if you’re not in majority it is not suggestable to stay put.
The symptoms of nickel allergy can range from mild to severe and can include redness, itching, or rash skin in the area of contact with the nickel-containing object. In severe cases, anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, and a drop in blood pressure, may occur as well.
Apple Watch Can Aggravate Nickel Allergy?
Apple Watches have become an integral part for many of us. For many it is hard to even imagine a life without our wearables, and rightfully so. What’s there that they can’t do? You want to keep track of your heart rate? Your Apple Watch can do it! You feel the urge to have close look at your Vo2 Max? They can do it too.
Unfortunately, for many of us, this luxury doesn’t come cheap. A price has to be paid, and usually it is in form of comfort. Although, not applicable to everyone, many Apple Watch users finds their smartwatch causing Allergic Reactions.
Even the company itself has acknowledged about it and in spite many spirited attempts to solve the issue find it quite reclusive. I guess you just can’t predict accurately how and when someone skin is going to react. But before we jump to any conclusions we feel it is important to take these two factors into consideration as well. While minute there is a small chance your woes might be because of these than the Nickel Allergy.
Skin Infection
Wearing the same thing day after day may seem like a harmless routine, but it can have an adverse effect on your skin. The skin on your wrist is delicate and sensitive. Prolonged contact with any material can be irritating. This is especially true if you wear your watch band too tight, as it can cause friction and sweating, leading to skin irritation.
Fungal Infection
Did you know that your skin can harbor a potentially dangerous fungus? If you wear your watch band all day, every day, especially in warm and humid environments, fungus can grow on your skin beneath the band. Fungus thrives in dark and damp conditions, making your wrist the perfect breeding ground.
Apple’s Stance On Nickel Allergy…
According to the official press release by the Apple (we’ve provided the link) each Apple Watch goes through a broad range of testing phases before it is certified for the commercial use. Which are both oversighted by the independent fact checkers as well as the internal QA teams at Apple. In short these (publicly released) test are used to determine the usability of an Apple Watch:
- Thousands of material composition tests
- More than a thousand prototypes worn for trial studies
- Thousands of toxicological assessments
- Consultations with board-certified dermatologists
However, Apple does state that even then some people can be affected by their use of Apple Watches. In which case if you experience redness, swelling, itchiness, or any other irritation, you should consult your physician before you put your Apple Watch back on.
“Nah I am sure it is Nickel in my Apple Watch!”
If you share the same sentiments as written above, then it is time to make a decision. Because most of the time the reason of Allergic reaction is close contact between skin and watch. Considering your Apple Watch is made of some sort of metal alloy that contains traces of Nickel, it is not hard to see where we are going with it. Officially Apple Watches come into two types of casing:
- Aluminum
- Stainless Steel
While Stainless Steel is said to have 14-15% of nickel per 1 gram of its weight – which is fine as well and within the limit set by European REACH. Aluminum is for sure the safest bet going with Allergy in mind. Yes, in extreme cases a reaction can occur with Aluminum casing too, given the stats and surveys taken, story is straight forward here.
“But I want durable App Watch! I have heard Aluminum Apple Watches can break easily?”
If you are thinking this then you are not completely wrong, I have myself mentioned how Stainless Steel Apple Watches can be better for durability. However, it should be noted that not every time your Aluminum Apple Watch will just break off like that, and not all Stainless Steel Apple Watches will end up giving you allergic reaction.
What About My Apple Watch Band? Should I Change It Too?
There are far too many Apple Watches band available in the market today. So it is difficult to generalize them. However, if you truly want to stay on the comfortable side, we prefer to go with Solo Loop. Not only are they made of pure silicone, the fresh breezy style that they carry can elevate any arm with an Apple Watch.
But. But. But.
If it is not what you intended or it’s not how you want to style your Apple Watch. We’d prefer you check out Apple listing about their authorized bands and make decision. Bearing in mind any of them can cost something like $100. So be considerate and be smart.
Solutions To Keep Allergic Reaction At Bay!
Comfort and Fit are Key to Enjoying Your Apple Watch. Finding the right fit for your Apple Watch can make all the difference in your comfort level when wearing it. Not too tight and not too loose, a well-fitting Apple Watch will give you the freedom to move without sacrificing style.
Keep Your Apple Watch and Skin Clean and Dry to Maximize Comfort. A little bit of cleanliness can go a long way when it comes to keeping your Apple Watch comfortable to wear. Whether you’ve just finished a workout or are wearing it for a long day at work, keeping your watch and skin dry will help prevent long-term damage and keep you feeling great.
Consider Allergies and Sensitivities When Choosing Apple Watch Materials. For those with allergies or sensitivities to certain materials, it’s essential to choose the right Apple Watch and band materials. By doing your research and opting for hypoallergenic options, you can ensure that you’ll be able to enjoy your watch without any discomfort or irritation.
Stick to Authorized Bands for Best Results. While there are many third-party bands available for Apple Watch, it’s best to stick to authorized options for optimal performance and comfort. These bands have been tested and approved by Apple, and you can trust that they’ll fit properly and won’t cause any damage to your watch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can wear an Apple Watch if you have an allergy, as it is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.
It’s possible, but rare. Some people may develop a skin irritation or allergy to the materials in the watch or its band.
Yes, the Apple Watch Aluminum models contain trace amounts of nickel in their metal composition. However, not a lot to cause a fatal reaction.
A watch made entirely of plastic or silicone materials should not contain nickel. However, it’s always best to confirm with the manufacturer.
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