Q: I would like to get my ears pierced, but I am afraid that I might be allergic to certain metals. My mom has pierced ears, but she can only wear gold earrings, even sterling silver makes her ears turn bright red. My mom and I share the same food allergies, so could allergies be hereditary? Is there a way to test if I am allergic to metals before I get my ears pierced? I don't want to get my ears pierced if I can't wear sterling silver or other earrings, like the ones you get a Claire's. Thanks in advance!
A: Yes! Allergies can run in families! My son has my mother's allergy to shellfish. My sister and I share several of the same allergies. Can you wear costume jewelry necklaces? Do inexpensive rings break you out or irritate your fingers? They do us! I used to be able to wear anything into my mid-twenties. Now we can only wear fine silver, some sterling silver, and 10kt, 14kt gold. Before you get your ears pierced you will have to decide if you are willing to take the risk, because even if these costume jewelry items don't bother you, piercings may. Not only that, but realize that there are very inexpensive places to purchase fine jewelry, Wal-mart, Ross', K-mart, etc. Go and look at what jewelry is available for those of us that must wear silver and gold. I had mine pierced because I kept losing my clip-on earrings. I haven't lost many earrings since then, 40 yrs. ago! Good luck! You've got a lot to think about.