text: Once a nickel allergy is detected, the best treatment is avoidance of nickel-releasing items. The top 13 categories that contain nickel include beauty accessories, eyeglasses, money, cigarettes, clothes, kitchen and household, electronics and office equipment, metal utensils, aliment, jewelry, batteries, orthodontic and dental appliances, and medical equipment. Other than strict avoidance of items that release free nickel, there are other treatment options for reduction of exposure. The first step is to limit friction between skin and metallic items. Susceptible people may try to limit sweating while wearing nickel items, to reduce nickel release and thus decrease chances for developing sensitization or allergy. Another option is to shield electronics, metal devices, and tools with fabric, plastic, or acrylic coverings.
  There are dimethylglyoxime test kits that can be very helpful to check for nickel release from items prior to purchasing. The American Contact Dermatitis Society find a provider resource can help identify clinicians with training in providing guidance lists of safe items.  In addition to avoidance, healthcare providers may prescribe additional creams or medications to help relieve the skin reaction.