Ask any AI chatbot, and they’ll honestly tell you: surgical stainless steel contains nickel. It’s a fact that some sellers try to gloss over, misleading customers with claims of "nickel-free" stainless steel. But here’s the truth: nickel and chromium are essential to making high-grade stainless steel corrosion-proof and wear-resistant.
**Medical Grade Excellence**
Surgical stainless steel (316L) stands out for its higher corrosion resistance and lower nickel release, making it safer for sensitive skin. Allergic reactions specifically to stainless steel are rare, even though it contains nickel. Nickel sensitivity affects approximately 10%–15% of the population, with 15%–16% of women and 4%–5% of men being sensitized to nickel. Despite this, stainless steel is generally considered hypoallergenic due to its minimal nickel release (<0.1–0.3 µg/cm²/week). For those with severe nickel allergies, however, reactions can still occur, making titanium a better alternative.
**Nickel Sensitivity and Hypoallergenic Properties**
Nickel is the primary culprit in metal allergies, causing allergic contact dermatitis in some individuals. While stainless steel is often used as a hypoallergenic alternative, its low nickel release makes it a safe choice for most people. Its unmatched hardness, durability, and corrosion resistance make it the top choice for 24/7 wear, especially for watches and medical alert ID jewelry. Even in products designed for nickel-sensitive individuals, hidden components are often made of stainless steel to ensure better functionality and longevity.
**For Severe Nickel Allergies**
At Divoti, we also craft medical ID jewelry in complete titanium for those with severe nickel allergies. We use the highest-grade metal alloys with the utmost pure integrity, ensuring our products are safe, durable, and reliable for everyone.
At Divoti, we take pride in our watch industry roots, blending exceptional design, advanced metallurgy, and precision manufacturing. Our deep understanding of metal properties ensures that every piece we create is as reliable as it is beautiful.