COMFORT & SENSITIVE SKIN GUIDE
Sensitive skin: which jewelry to choose and how to wear it?
Redness, itching, discomfort in the lobe or wrist… Having sensitive skin should not deprive you of jewelry.
The good news: between the choice of materials, the quality of the finishes
and a few hygiene gestures, you can gain a lot in comfort — while remaining stylish.
At Ylume, we design jewelry in 18 k (3 μ) gold-plated, matte champagne finish,
and nickel-free, lead-free, cadmium-free, for serene everyday wear.
This guide shares general tips for comfort. In the event of a persistent reaction, a history of allergy
(especially to nickel) or damaged skin, seek the advice of a health professional (dermatologist, doctor).
Materials & finishes: what to choose when you have sensitive skin?
Skin reactions often come from metal allergens (e.g. nickel) or prolonged contact with sweat,
cosmetics and water. Two levers: choose well-finished jewelry and limit the skin’s exposure to problematic metals.
| Material / Finish | Overall | Key | At Ylume’s |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18k gold plated (3 μ) | Very good | High plating thickness (3 μ) = durable barrier. Matte champagne gilding = soft reflections. | Yes — nickel-free, lead-free, cadmium-free. |
| Brass gilded with fine gold (lighter thickness) | Good | comfort correct if skin not very reactive. Requires more gentleness to maintain. | Yes on some parts — same finishing requirements. |
| Sterling Silver (925) | Very good | Well tolerated in general. May blacken (oxidize) → gentle cleaning. | — |
| Stainless steel (variable grade) | Variable | Comfort depends on grade and finish. Check for “nickel-free”. | — |
| Unspecified Alloys / Low-End | What to avoid | Risk of nickel/lead inclusion. Sharp finishes or fragile varnishes. | — |
with thick plating (e.g. 18 k 3 μ) and polished edges. This is exactly our specifications.
Signs of discomfort and aggravating factors (to watch for)
How you may feel
- Localized warming, redness, itching at the point of contact.
- Feeling of tightness (part too heavy or tight clasp).
- Persistent marks related to moisture or friction.
What can trigger/maintain
- Perspiration + cosmetics (perfumes, hairsprays, creams) under the jewelry.
- Water (shower, sea, swimming pool) + soap → stagnation + friction.
- Excessive weight (buckles too heavy, rigid rods too tight).
Important : if the irritation persists despite stopping the jewelry and cleaning the area,
or if you have a known allergic area (e.g. nickel), seek advice from a dermatologist.
Earrings for sensitive skin: sizes, weights, clasps
The lobe is a thin and vascularized area: lightness, smoothness and safety are sought.
Our matte champagne gold hoop earrings (18k gold plated, 3 μ, nickel/lead/cadmium free) are designed for comfortable wear.
| Type | size/weight | What for | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini hoop earrings | Ø 10–16 mm, lightweight | There is no discreet light, very soft on the lobe. | Hoops |
| hoop earrings | Ø 18–22 mm, smooth | Balances visibility/comfort, secure click clasp. | Hoops |
| Fine | Length: 30–50 mm, very light | Slender line, limited friction if hair tied up. | Loops |
- Clasp : favor the sharp click (hoops) or comfort stop systems.
- Polished edges : no roughness in contact with the skin.
- Hairstyle : attached = less rubbing; ideal if sensitive lobe.
Necklaces & bracelets: where the skin goes, where the comfort goes
Medal necklaces (neck side)
- Safe lengths : 45 cm (pivot), 60 cm (vertical, away from the neckline).
- Smooth back : polished medals, softened angles.
- Stacking : 45 + 60 cm (5 cm ≥ spacing) to avoid tangling.
See: medal necklaces.
Bangles & bracelets (wrist side)
- Fit : Not too tight (leave a 1 finger set).
- Silence : 1 medium or 2 fine rod to limit shocks.
- Dry skin : avoid hydroalcoholic gel under the bracelet.
See: bracelets and bangles.
Hygiene routine “sensitive skin + jewelry” (30 seconds flat)
- Before wearing : clean, dry skin. Apply perfumes/creams before and let it penetrate.
- After the day : wipe jewelry and contact areas with a soft, dry cloth.
- Storage : each piece in a cotton bag, protected from humidity.
Mini homemade “patch-test” (without injury)
Objective: to check the tolerance of an area before prolonged wear. This test is not a substitute for medical advice.
- Clean the area (e.g. lobe) and dry.
- Wear the piece for 1 to 2 hours in a “quiet” environment (no sports).
- Remove, observe the skin after 2 to 4 hours. Repeat over 2–3 days.
- If discomfort: stop wearing it and seek professional advice if necessary.
Tip: start with smooth mini hoop earrings (thin profile, featherweight) to test.
Comfort Looks (Sensitive Skin) — 6 Ready-to-Wear Ideas
1) Minimal Soft (Desktop)
- Smooth hoop earrings Ø 16–18 mm.
- Medal 45 cm (smooth spine).
- Single thin bangle (wrist opposite the watch).
2) Casual without friction (denim)
- Hoop earrings Ø 18–20 mm, hair tied back.
- 60 cm chain (avoid the collar).
- A thin bangle (avoid tight sleeves).
3) Sensitive civil marriage
- Hoop earrings Ø 18–22 mm smooth.
- 45 + 60 cm (actual deviation ≥ 5 cm).
- Medium smooth bangle, dry skin before wear.
4) Long video
- Mini hoop earrings Ø 14–16 mm.
- 45 cm medal (no micro rubbing).
- No wristbands if you type on the keyboard.
5) Light evening
- Thin (30–45 mm), ultra-light pendants.
- Unique necklace 45 cm.
- Two fine rods (smooth + hammered).
6) Sport & Transit
- Remove jewelry for training.
- Put back on dry skin (after showering).
- Wipe with a cloth before storing.
Maintenance that changes everything (and prolongs the gilding)
- Soft cloth dries after wearing (dust, sweat, cream).
- Avoid : direct perfume, hydroalcoholic gel, shower/bath with jewelry.
- Storage : separately in a pouch; Close the chains.
- Review : check the “click” of the hoop earrings regularly.
These simple gestures preserve the plating barrier (18 k, 3 μ) and limit irritating contact (water, cosmetics).
FAQ — Sensitive Skin & Jewelry
What makes a piece of jewelry more comfortable for sensitive skin?
A better tolerated material (e.g. thick 18k gold plated), the absence of allergens (nickel, lead, cadmium),
polished edges and a light weight. At Ylume, our jewelry is nickel-free, lead-free, cadmium-free,
18k (3 μ) gold plated with a skin-friendly matte champagne finish.
Can I wear jewelry every day if I have reactive skin?
Yes, if you alternate pieces, follow a hygiene routine (dry skin, wiping after wearing)
and favor light shapes (mini-hoops, fine pendants, fitted bangles).
In case of repeated reactions, stop wearing and consult.
Does 3 μ veneer make a real difference?
Yes: 3 μ thickness provides a more durable barrier between the skin and the base metal,
reducing the risk of prolonged exposure. This contributes to comfort over time, especially with appropriate maintenance gestures.
I am known to be allergic to nickel, what should I do?
Choose explicitly nickel-free jewelry (like ours), avoid moisture under the jewelry,
and perform a mini tolerance test before prolonged wear. If signs reappear, seek professional advice.
What length of necklace is the most “comfortable”?
45 cm (pivot) fits most necklines. 60 cm is recommended if the neck is sensitive or if the top is textured,
to keep the pendant away from areas of friction.
Our “sensitive skin” selection
Start with these essentials, designed for comfort:
smooth hoop earrings Ø 14–20 mm,
medallion necklace 45/60 cm,
fine ring.
18 k gold plated gilding (3 μ), matte champagne shade, nickel-free, lead-free, cadmium-free.
