At the first sign of infection, or allergic reaction, consult your dermatologist. Dr. Cohen is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, a member of the American Contact Dermatitis Society, and director of occupational and environmental dermatology at NYU Medical Center. He spoke recently at an AAD public education program in New York to mark November as National Healthy Skin Month. Supporters of AAD education programs such as National Healthy Skin Month include Roman Research, manufacturer of Simply Whispers and other nickel-safe jewelry products and watches. In addition to its participation with the AAD, Roman Research is promulgating new jewelry labeling standards to better inform consumers about body piercing and nickel risks.
Experts agree the term 'hypoallergenic' is confusing.
Southworth is assembling a team of medical and communication experts to develop effective labeling standards for nickel-safe jewelry and other products. A leading guide used by dermatologists, Fisher's Contact Dermatitis by Drs. Alexander A. Fisher, Joseph F. Fowler and Robert L. Rietschel, cites Roman Research as a reliable source of nickel-safe jewelry. In 1970, the company invented the first one-step ear piercing system to eliminate the danger of developing a nickel allergy by using a surgical stainless steel stud to puncture the lobe. In addition, the sterilized stud is used only once and remains in place until the puncture heals, thus eliminating transfer of pathogens from one individual to another.