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Allertest™ Ni Frequently Asked Questions
What is Allertest Ni made of?
There are 2 solutions included in this nickel detection kit – a solution of dimethylglyoxime in alcohol, and an ammonium hydroxide solution.
How does Allertest Ni work?
A drop of each solution (A and B) is placed on a cotton-tipped applicator and rubbed firmly against a metal object. Any nickel on the surface will be attracted to the dimethylglyoxime and form an organic nickel complex. In the presence of ammonium hydroxide this organic nickel complex becomes alkaline and turns a strawberry-red color, permitting easy detection.
Are Allertest Ni results accurate?
Positive tests (red color) are very accurate for the presence of nickel. The dimethylglyoxime test is considered the standard test method for nickel and is used worldwide. However, occasionally a negative Allertest Ni result can be false. This may occur if other metals or contaminants interfere with the test.
Some individuals are more sensitive to nickel than dimethylglyoxime tests can measure. If you have been diagnosed with a nickel allergy and the Allertest Ni test results are negative, but your skin reacts to a metal object you should discuss this with your physician. You may be allergic to other non-nickel substances in the object. Until the problem is resolved you should avoid exposure to the object. Contacting the product manufacturer may help determine if the metal object is manufactured with nickel.
Some individuals are more sensitive to nickel than dimethylglyoxime tests can measure. If you have been diagnosed with a nickel allergy and the Allertest Ni test results are negative, but your skin reacts to a metal object you should discuss this with your physician. You may be allergic to other non-nickel substances in the object. Until the problem is resolved you should avoid exposure to the object. Contacting the product manufacturer may help determine if the metal object is manufactured with nickel.
How should Allertest Ni be stored?
Store in cool, dry area. It is important that both bottles included in Allertest Ni be tightly capped to minimize evaporation. Because Solution A contains alcohol, it should be kept away from sources of heat or ignition.
Does Allertest Ni contain any hazardous chemicals?
Yes. Allertest Ni should be applied to metal objects only. Be sure to wash any clothing that contacts these solutions before wearing. Keep away from eyes, pets and children.
Direct exposure of skin or eyes to either solution A or B may cause irritation and burning. If skin or eyes are exposed, immediately flush them thoroughly with water for several minutes, and obtain medical aid. If either solution is ingested obtain medical aid immediately.
Direct exposure of skin or eyes to either solution A or B may cause irritation and burning. If skin or eyes are exposed, immediately flush them thoroughly with water for several minutes, and obtain medical aid. If either solution is ingested obtain medical aid immediately.
How can I protect myself from objects that test positive for nickel with Allertest Ni?
Avoiding skin contact is the key to successfully treating a nickel contact allergy. It is also important to take care of your skin and prevent any breaks in the dermal barrier.
Metal clothing fasteners (buttons, hooks, etc.) can be replaced with non-metal versions made of plastic or hook-and-loop material. Skin-contact areas of objects such as eyeglass frames can be covered with plastic or rubberized materials. For some metal items such as keys, utensils, and some tools, alternatives are available in other metals or plastics.
Costume jewelry is a frequent source of nickel allergy symptoms, especially for women. Stainless steel backings on jewelry should be substituted when possible. It may be possible to replate special pieces with another metal, but this should be discussed with a jeweler. Coating jewelry with nail polish only temporarily prevents exposure and should not be considered a long-term solution.
For some tools, equipment, coins and occupational exposures, alternatives are not readily available. In those cases, protect your skin from contact with nickel-containing objects by wearing appropriate clothing and gloves. Gloves can be made of cotton, vinyl or utility-grade polymers – depending upon the needs of the individual and workplace demands.
Nickel Allergy
Metal clothing fasteners (buttons, hooks, etc.) can be replaced with non-metal versions made of plastic or hook-and-loop material. Skin-contact areas of objects such as eyeglass frames can be covered with plastic or rubberized materials. For some metal items such as keys, utensils, and some tools, alternatives are available in other metals or plastics.
Costume jewelry is a frequent source of nickel allergy symptoms, especially for women. Stainless steel backings on jewelry should be substituted when possible. It may be possible to replate special pieces with another metal, but this should be discussed with a jeweler. Coating jewelry with nail polish only temporarily prevents exposure and should not be considered a long-term solution.
For some tools, equipment, coins and occupational exposures, alternatives are not readily available. In those cases, protect your skin from contact with nickel-containing objects by wearing appropriate clothing and gloves. Gloves can be made of cotton, vinyl or utility-grade polymers – depending upon the needs of the individual and workplace demands.
Nickel Allergy