What common element, frequently implicated in contact dermatitis, is the primary allergen surgical steel alloys aim to limit?
Answer
Nickel
The main driver for selecting surgical steel, especially the 316L variety, for sensitive skin and piercings is its significantly reduced potential to trigger allergic reactions, overwhelmingly targeting nickel sensitivity. Nickel is a notorious sensitizer known to cause contact dermatitis, manifesting as symptoms like redness, itching, and inflammation upon dermal exposure. Surgical steel alloys contain lower nickel content than many other common jewelry materials, and critically, the stable passive oxide layer helps to lock any residual nickel within the metal matrix, preventing its migration onto the skin surface.
Related Questions
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