Hypoallergenic piercing is a term for jewelry made from materials that minimize the risk of causing an allergic reaction. The most common allergen in metal jewelry is nickel, which can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals, an inflammatory skin reaction manifesting as itching, redness, or rash. Materials suitable for people with sensitive skin include, for example, implant-grade titanium, niobium, 14 and 18-karat gold, platinum, or biocompatible glass. Although 316L surgical steel is often used, it may contain trace amounts of nickel and can cause problems in highly sensitive individuals. Choosing jewelry made from these materials is especially important for new piercings and for individuals with a confirmed metal allergy.