Apr
If your cherished necklace or bracelet accompanies you from work to bed and even to the shower, the latest jewelry trend on TikTok might pique your interest. Permanent jewelry, as the name suggests, is jewelry that remains on you constantly. This trend was initiated by the New York-based jewelry studio Catbird back in 2017, and it has gained significant traction, amassing over 2 billion views on TikTok alone. However, before you choose your chain, there are several factors to consider, including its safety.
Understanding Permanent Jewelry
Permanent jewelry refers to items like necklaces, anklets, or more frequently, bracelets, which lack the typical clasp for easy removal. Instead, the ends are welded or “zapped” together, with the intent of never removing them. Much like tattoos, these bracelets often carry personal significance, with friends or family members frequently opting for matching sets. Consider this a significant upgrade from the yarn-and-bead friendship bracelets of yore.
Safety of Permanent Jewelry
In general, yes. Getting a permanent necklace or bracelet typically takes only one to three painless minutes, and the welding tools used don’t come into contact with your skin. However, a concerned TikTok doctor has raised awareness about potential hazards associated with permanent bracelets. For instance, any swelling caused by heat, injuries, or pregnancy could make your permanent jewelry uncomfortably tight.
Another consideration is skin allergies. Gold may contain traces of nickel, which can trigger reactions in individuals with nickel allergies—estimated to affect about 18% of North Americans, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. Symptoms of a nickel allergy can include red, itchy skin, blisters, or dry patches. If you’re uncertain whether you have a nickel allergy, a patch test performed by your doctor can determine how your skin reacts. A useful tip: Higher karat gold is less likely to contain nickel. Permanent bracelets often use 14 karat gold, which may be sufficient for some people to avoid a rash. However, others may need to opt for 18 or 24 karat gold.
Removing Permanent Jewelry
While the term “permanent jewelry” implies long-term commitment, you’re not necessarily bound to it forever. If circumstances require you to remove it—such as experiencing a reaction to the jewelry, frequent traveling, or needing an MRI—simply using a pair of scissors can snip it off. You even have the option to save the chain and have it re-welded at a later time if desired.
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