If you're looking for body jewelry that combines durability, affordability, and style, steel is an excellent option. Steel, a strong and versatile metal alloy, has become increasingly popular for body piercings. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the benefits of steel body jewelry and its suitability for various piercings.
Of course, as with every body jewelry material, there are some things to keep in mind. For starters, while there are many types of steel out there, only a few are body safe. Look for 316L and 316LVM steel, or implant grade steel.
Why Steel is a Popular Body Jewelry Material
Stainless steel, in particular, is the backbone of modern body jewelry. It offers an array of styles, from
barbells to
plugs,
navels, and
necklaces. Its strength and durability make it perfect for everyday wear, withstanding the test of time. Stainless steel is also resistant to tarnishing and corrosion, and it's easy to clean with warm water and soap. While it may not be as hypoallergenic as titanium, implant-grade steel is body-safe for most people. Moreover, stainless steel body jewelry is affordable, providing a high-quality, budget-friendly option. Additionally, steel is a sustainable material, requiring fewer resources to process and often being recyclable. Choosing stainless steel not only benefits you but also the environment.
The Pros of Using Steel for Body Jewelry
Despite the cons, steel body jewelry offers numerous advantages:
- Strength and Durability: Steel is a durable metal, less prone to scratches and wear. Of course it’s perfect for dressing up, but its strength makes it especially great for everyday jewelry, as it can stand up to wear and tear.
- Hypoallergenic: Most people find implant-grade steel safe for their piercings, even with sensitive skin. While not as allergy friendly as titanium, implant grade steel is still body safe for most people.
- Affordability: Steel body jewelry is budget-friendly without compromising on quality.
- Resistance to Tarnish: Steel maintains its shine and appearance over time.
- Easy to Sterilize: Maintaining good hygiene and preventing infections is simple with easily sterilizable steel jewelry.
- Wide Range of Finishes: Choose from matte, polished, brushed, and more, catering to various aesthetic preferences.
- Sustainable: Lastly, steel is sustainable, due to it taking less resources to process, and in many cases it can be recycled.
Cons of Using Steel for Body Jewelry
While steel body jewelry boasts numerous advantages, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Some people may have allergies to metal, so they should choose materials like titanium instead of implant-grade steel.
- Weight: Steel can be relatively heavy, which might make it uncomfortable for extended wear.
- Hard to bend: Steel is strong and durable, but it is hard for jewelry makers to reshape or resize because of its strength.
- Though strong, steel is not indestructible.
- Limited Colors: Unlike titanium, steel cannot be anodized. PVD plating limits the color options.
Take Care of Your Steel Body Jewelry
To preserve your steel body jewelry and prevent rust or corrosion, follow these maintenance tips:
- Keep it dry to avoid rusting. Don't wear it in the shower, bath, or pool.
- Store it in a dry place when not in use.
- Regularly clean it with a soft, non-abrasive cloth and mild soap solution.
By following these practices, you can keep your steel body jewelry looking great and extend its lifespan.
Conclusion
Steel is a versatile and reliable material for body jewelry, offering a trendy and affordable option for fashion and function. Overall, steel jewelry is safe, durable, and budget-friendly. Discover the wide range of steel jewelry options at
Bodyartforms.com! If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out. Thank you for reading! Please remember to follow us on all our socials @Bodyartforms!
