Both stainless steel and titanium are popular choices for hypoallergenic metals and are commonly used in jewellery. Both are highly biocompatible, meaning they are not harmful or toxic to living tissues, and are unlikely to cause an allergic reaction for people with sensitive skin.
However, there are some differences between the two that may be important to consider.
Stainless steel is an alloy made from:
- Iron
- Carbon
- and other elements, including nickel and chromium. It contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium content by mass.
The addition of chromium and nickel makes stainless steel more resistant to corrosion and tarnishing. However, the nickel content in stainless steel can vary, and some people may be sensitive to nickel and experience an allergic reaction.
Nevertheless, many types of stainless steel are considered hypoallergenic because they contain low levels of nickel or are nickel-free. There are also stainless-steel alloys available that are specifically designed to be nickel-free, such as 316L surgical stainless steel.
Titanium, on the other hand, is a pure metal and does not contain a mixture of alloys. Made from titanium sheets, these rings are approximately twice as strong as their stainless steel counterparts which means they last longer.
Titanium is a chemical element with the symbol Ti and atomic number 22.
It is a lightweight and strong metal that is highly resistant to corrosion. It is often used in medical implants due to its ability to fuse with bone and tissue without causing an adverse reaction.
Unlike stainless steel, titanium does not contain nickel, so it is a good choice for people with nickel sensitivities.
However, titanium can be more expensive than stainless steel and may not be as widely available in certain applications. Also, titanium can scratch and become dull if not polished regularly. Stainless steel is almost scratch-resistant, meaning you can go about your daily life without worrying your jewellery will become scratched.
In summary, both stainless steel and titanium can be good choices for hypoallergenic metals, but titanium is generally considered to be the more biocompatible and nickel-free option. The choice between the two may depend on factors such as personal preference, budget, and the specific application. If you have a known allergy to nickel, it may be best to choose a type of stainless steel that is nickel-free or to opt for titanium to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction.
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