Implant Grade Titanium vs. "Surgical Steel": Why Your Piercing Hates Mystery Metal
You just got a new piercing. It looked great for a week, but now it’s angry. It’s itchy, red, and maybe has a dreaded bump forming. You’ve been cleaning it perfectly, so what gives?
The culprit is very likely sitting right inside the piercing channel: the jewelry itself.
In the world of body jewelry, terms get thrown around loosely. The most confusing and misleading term out there is "Surgical Steel." At Vital Piercing, we believe in total transparency about what you put in your body. Here is the truth about the metal hierarchy and why we exclusively use Implant Grade Titanium.
The Myth of "Surgical Steel"
It sounds professional, doesn't it? Like something a surgeon would use.
Unfortunately, "Surgical Steel" is largely a marketing term. It is not a specific, regulated grade of metal. It is usually a stainless steel alloy that contains various other metals mixed in—including nickel.
Nickel is one of the most common metal allergies in the world. Even if you don’t think you have an allergy, placing a nickel-containing alloy inside a fresh, open wound (which is what a new piercing is) can trigger sensitivities, prolong healing times, and cause chronic irritation bumps.
If your jewelry cost $5 at a mall kiosk, it’s almost certainly low-grade steel.
The Gold Standard: Implant Grade Titanium (ASTM F-136)
If you want your piercing to heal properly, or if you have sensitive skin, titanium is the answer. But not just any titanium—specifically ASTM F-136 Implant Grade Titanium.
This isn't just a fancy name. It’s a rigorous international standard for material safety.
Why is it better?
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It is Hypoallergenic: Implant grade titanium contains virtually no nickel. It is biocompatible, meaning the human body accepts it rather than fighting it as a foreign invader. This is the same material used in medical implants like hip replacements and pacemakers.
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It is Lightweight: Steel is heavy. If you have a larger gauge piercing or a dangling piece, steel can drag the piercing down, causing migration. Titanium is incredibly strong but feather-light, making it comfortable for 24/7 wear.
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It Can Be Anodized: Unlike steel, titanium can be safely changed into vibrant colors (like gold, rose gold, blue, or purple) through an electrical process called anodization, without using cheap paints or platings that chip off inside your body.
The Verdict
Don't let a cheap piece of jewelry ruin a beautiful piercing. The few extra dollars spent on verified, implant-grade materials are an investment in your health and a healed piercing.
If your piercing is acting up, try switching to titanium. You’ll likely see the difference within days.