Discover If Nickel Causes Hair Loss

By Alta Alexander


If you're one of the many millions of people who have experienced rashes and other symptoms of allergic reaction when you wear various types of jewelry, you've probably already suspected that you might have an allergy of some sort. In many instances, that allergy is probably related to the nickel that is so often used in the crafting of these accessories. People who are suffering from balding may also wonder whether nickel causes hair loss.

To begin, it should be understood that this metal is the source of many common skin allergies. That should come as no surprise, given that it is a commonly used element in a variety of manufacturing processes. In fact it is so common that it can be found in everything from zippers to jewelry, certain coins, eyeglasses, and even cell phones.

Where such allergies exist, they are frequently identified by symptoms such as dry or itchy skin, blisters, and rashes. The skin can also become scaly in the regions affected by the metal. When such symptoms are seen, it is wise to eliminate contact with the metal. Alternatively, you can simply consult a doctor and have yourself tested to see whether or not you actually have an allergy.

Most doctors can diagnose these allergies visually, and confirm them with a few simple questions. There are also allergy tests that can be performed to ensure that the metal is the offending culprit, but these tests are usually not needed for an effective diagnosis. If the removal of this metal from the skin relieves the discomfort, then that is a virtual guarantee that an allergy exists.

Though there is no question about this metal's role as an allergen where skin is concerned, what about those who suffer from the effects of baldness? Does this element also play a role in that process? Scientists have conducted a great deal of research trying to find answers to that concern.

Through that research, the scientists have determined that there is no suggestion of any sort of connection between this element and any type of baldness. This is true even for those who have strong allergies. The researchers' explanation for the appearance of a connection is a simple one: where an allergic individual also seems to be balding, that balding is the result of his own genetic tendencies. As a result, the appearance of correlation is merely coincidental.

In other words, genetics remains the single greatest cause for all forms of baldness. Granted, the research does not conclusively eliminate this metal as a potential cause, but it does indicate that the chances of a causal relationship between nickel allergy and baldness are extremely remote and unable to be proven at this time.

That may be small consolation for those who suffer from this allergic condition, however, since it an allergy that has no cure once it develops. Still, with all of the dermatological irritation that a reaction to this common metal can cause, it is still somewhat comforting to know that it does not appear to play a role in baldness.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment