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  3. 10 Best Earrings for Sensitive Ears in 2022 (Tarsus, Lifetime Jewelry, and More)
  • 10 Best Earrings for Sensitive Ears in 2022 (Tarsus, Lifetime Jewelry, and More) 1
  • 10 Best Earrings for Sensitive Ears in 2022 (Tarsus, Lifetime Jewelry, and More) 2
  • 10 Best Earrings for Sensitive Ears in 2022 (Tarsus, Lifetime Jewelry, and More) 3
  • 10 Best Earrings for Sensitive Ears in 2022 (Tarsus, Lifetime Jewelry, and More) 4
  • 10 Best Earrings for Sensitive Ears in 2022 (Tarsus, Lifetime Jewelry, and More) 5

10 Best Earrings for Sensitive Ears in 2022 (Tarsus, Lifetime Jewelry, and More)

Have you ever experienced discomfort after putting on a new pair of earrings? Your ears start to itch and turn red (or even green!), leaving you no choice but to remove the piercings. "Sensitive ears," a type of allergy, is a common adverse skin reaction to certain metals. If you have sensitive ears, it's time to invest in some nickel-free or hypoallergenic jewelry.

With the plethora of earrings being advertised as "great for sensitive ears" online, it can be overwhelming to find a new pair. So, we've researched the best earrings for sensitive ears, finding unique pairs to suit everyone's tastes! Pavoi's 14k Gold Plated Cuff Earrings are our favorite for their nickel-free build and trendy design. We've included nine other earrings as well as a handy buying guide to aid you in your search. 

Last updated 09/26/2023
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Table of Contents

How to Choose Earrings For Sensitive Ears

The most important factor to keep in mind when purchasing earrings for sensitive ears is the material. Read on to learn more about how to choose safe earrings!

1

Avoid Nickel and Certain Plated-Metal Earrings

Avoid Nickel and Certain Plated-Metal Earrings

Individuals who suffer from sensitive ears get red, itchy, and sometimes swollen ear lobes minutes after their ears come into contact with certain types of jewelry. Since the allergic reaction occurs when your ears touch certain metals, it is best to avoid wearing piercings containing nickel and plated-metals.

Nickel earrings are the bane of sensitive ears and cause the majority of metal allergies. This metal alloy is commonly combined with other metals, like sterling silver or even gold, to increase the piercings’ durability.

Also, avoid piercings plated with gold or silver if they have nickel or zinc bases. When the plating wears off, the nickel will begin to irritate your ears. 

2

Go for Earrings With Hypoallergenic Metals

The best type of earrings for sensitive ears are hypoallergenic or nickel-free jewelry. These earrings are made from materials that are less likely to irritate your ears.

Titanium Earrings are the Go-To for Sensitive Ears

Titanium Earrings are the Go-To for Sensitive Ears

Titanium is a durable metal that rarely causes allergies. It's as strong as steel but relatively light, making it a comfortable go-to for those with sensitive ears. If you have extra sensitive ears, try medical-grade titanium earrings; this type of titanium is used in hospitals to make implants. 

High-Karat Gold Won't Irritate Your Ears

High-Karat Gold Won't Irritate Your Ears

Another excellent metal for sensitive ears is gold. One drawback of gold earrings is that the lower the karat, the higher the chance of irritation since the gold is mixed with other metals to build durability.

Anything under 14 karat gold jewelry can irritate sensitive skin. The safest karat to get is 18 or 22 since numbers contain small amounts of nickel. If you want to be extra cautious, go for 24k gold earrings; however, these tend to be soft, expensive, and less durable. 

Platinum is Durable and Doesn’t Corrode

Platinum is Durable and Doesn’t Corrode

Platinum earrings are perfect for everyday use and will not corrode. This metal is also very durable, lasting a long time while keeping its shine. Like gold, it is best to go for pure, 24 karat platinum earrings if you have extra sensitive skin. You can opt for lower amounts of platinum if you’re just looking for hypoallergenic everyday earrings. 

Sterling Silver is an Accessible Option

Sterling Silver is an Accessible Option

Silver is a trustworthy and widely used hypoallergenic metal. Sterling silver jewelry is usually only 92.5 percent pure, but this doesn't pose any problems for most people. This specific grade of sterling silver, called 925, is great for individuals with sensitive ears!

If you find your ears reacting to your sterling silver jewelry, contact the jeweler or manufacturer to see if the piece contains nickel. 

Medical-Grade Plastic is Great for Kids

Medical-Grade Plastic is Great for Kids

You can also go for a non-metal option. Earrings made from medical-grade plastic and polymer clay make great alternatives to metal piercings. These types of earrings are very kid-friendly and will not cause any reactions. 

3

Use a Metal-Testing Kit as a Last Resort

Use a Metal-Testing Kit as a Last Resort

If you want to make sure that no nickel or other metal allergens are present in your jewelry, you can use a metal-testing kit. This kit comes with a set of solutions that determine the types of metal in the piercings.

Use a cotton ball and a few drops of solution on the jewelry you want to test, and dab the product a few times. If the color of the solution changes, this means that metals that could irritate your skin are present. 

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10 Best Earrings For Sensitive Ears Ranking

Here are the best Earrings For Sensitive Ears, ranked according to 10 Best Earrings for Sensitive Ears (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Pavoi

14K Gold-Plated Cubic Zirconia Cuff Earrings

Pavoi 14K Gold-Plated Cubic Zirconia Cuff Earrings 1

$13.95

Mid

Cuff Earrings Perfect for Any Occasion

2

Wssxc

Stud Earrings Set

Wssxc Stud Earrings Set 1

$12.99

Low Mid

Sparkly Studs in Different Sizes

3

Pavoi

14K Gold-Colored Chunky Open Hoops

Pavoi 14K Gold-Colored Chunky Open Hoops 1

$13.95

Mid

Lightweight Open Hoop Earrings

4

Raneecoco

18K Gold Plated Silver Stud Earrings

Raneecoco 18K Gold Plated Silver Stud Earrings 1

$19.99

High Mid

Simulated Diamond Studs in Various Carat Weights

5

Tarsus

Hypoallergenic Initial Studs

Tarsus Hypoallergenic Initial Studs  1

$9.99

Low

Personalize Your Jewelry With These Alphabet Earrings

6

LeYa

Stud Earrings

LeYa Stud Earrings 1

$13.88

Mid

Titanium Studs for Extra-Sensitive Ears

7

Hanpabum

Crystal Hypoallergenic Stud Earrings

Hanpabum Crystal Hypoallergenic Stud Earrings 1

$14.99

Mid

Metal-Free Rhinestone Studs With an Acrylic Post

8

Cde

Hypoallergenic Birthstone Butterfly Stud

Cde Hypoallergenic Birthstone Butterfly Stud 1

$29.99

High

A Pair of Gift-Worthy Birthstone Earrings

9

Lifetime Jewelry

Triple Hoops Earrings

Lifetime Jewelry Triple Hoops Earrings  1

$30.00

High

Look Fancy in These Gold-Plated Hoop Earrings

10

Minihope

Hypoallergenic Plastic Post Earrings for Girls

Minihope Hypoallergenic Plastic Post Earrings for Girls 1

$13.99

Mid

Adorable, Hand-Crafted Clay Earrings for Children

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Pavoi14K Gold-Plated Cubic Zirconia Cuff Earrings

14K Gold-Plated Cubic Zirconia Cuff Earrings 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$13.95
Mid
Reference price
$13.95
Mid

Cuff Earrings Perfect for Any Occasion

These nickel-free, hypoallergenic gold-plated huggies have a simple, chic design that's versatile enough for any occasion! They feature cubic zirconia gems for a touch of sparkle. If white gold is not your style, the product also has a rose and yellow gold option. 


Some reviewers struggled to get the product off their ears due to a faulty latch. Other than that, buyers loved their classy design, smaller size, and durability. Those with sensitive ears had no problem wearing these earrings for long periods of time, even sleeping with them on! 

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No.2

WssxcStud Earrings Set

Stud Earrings Set 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$12.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$12.99
Low Mid

Sparkly Studs in Different Sizes

If you're looking for an earring set with differently sized studs, you've come to the right place. These nickel-free stainless steel studs are made for sensitive ears. The variety of sizes included gives you plenty of accessorizing options. These earrings come in a rose gold, gold, or steel finish.


A couple of reviewers had trouble with the earring backs, saying they tended to fall off. Past this, reviewers said that the sparkly gems make these earrings stand out. Many also said that the set is a great gift for people with multiple ear piercings

No.3

Pavoi14K Gold-Colored Chunky Open Hoops

14K Gold-Colored Chunky Open Hoops 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$13.95
Mid
Reference price
$13.95
Mid

Lightweight Open Hoop Earrings

These large, gold-colored open hoop earrings are nickel- and lead-free. There are two size options, and they come in rose, white, or yellow gold. Plus, they have a simple, classic design that you can dress up or down.


Since this earring is not gold-plated, a few customers said it tarnished quite quickly. Be careful not to get the earrings near water or other corrosive chemicals. But, overall, buyers liked the beautiful design and large size. They also appreciated that they are lightweight, saying they don't make their earlobes sag.

No.4

Raneecoco18K Gold Plated Silver Stud Earrings

18K Gold Plated Silver Stud Earrings 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$19.99
High Mid
Reference price
$19.99
High Mid

Simulated Diamond Studs in Various Carat Weights

These simulated diamond studs are hypoallergenic and won't irritate most sensitive ears. They are made from 925 sterling silver, a grade ideal for those with a metal allergy. The gem is set on the post with only three prongs, allowing more of the jewel to be seen


Some customers encountered problems with sliding earring backs and studs falling off the post. However, most reviewers said that these look like real diamonds and feel really light on their ears. Many buyers said they wear these earrings every day and even go to sleep with them on. 

No.5

TarsusHypoallergenic Initial Studs

Hypoallergenic Initial Studs  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$9.99
Low
Reference price
$9.99
Low

Personalize Your Jewelry With These Alphabet Earrings

With these alphabet studs, you can have earrings that remind you of a special someone, close friend, or your own name. They are hypoallergenic and will not irritate those with sensitive ears. The shiny 14k gold-plating does not tarnish and lasts a long time, too. 


A couple of reviewers felt like the earrings are too small. Meanwhile, many customers liked the unique design and durability of these studs. Plus, most buyers with sensitive ears experienced no trouble with these piercings. 

No.6

LeYaStud Earrings

Stud Earrings 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$13.88
Mid
Reference price
$13.88
Mid

Titanium Studs for Extra-Sensitive Ears

These pure titanium spiral-square studs are great for anyone with very sensitive ears. Titanium rarely causes skin to react, and the material lasts a long time. So, you can be sure that these earrings will not bend or lose their color. They are also available in a round spiral design.


For some reviewers, the posts on this earring were too thick. On the other hand, buyers with strong metal allergies had no problems wearing these earrings. The cute design was also a plus for many customers. 

No.7

HanpabumCrystal Hypoallergenic Stud Earrings

Crystal Hypoallergenic Stud Earrings 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$14.99
Mid
Reference price
$14.99
Mid

Metal-Free Rhinestone Studs With an Acrylic Post

Are you looking for a new set of metal-free earrings? These 36-pairs of piercings have a shiny rhinestone attached to an acrylic post. These earrings are best for people with highly sensitive ears, and they're also suitable for children. 


A few reviewers were disappointed with the rhinestone's tiny size. Past this, buyers with metal allergies were quite content, saying they experienced no reactions to these piercings. People also liked the large number of earrings in this set; it means losing a few pairs is no problem!

No.8

CdeHypoallergenic Birthstone Butterfly Stud

Hypoallergenic Birthstone Butterfly Stud 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$29.99
High
Reference price
$29.99
High

A Pair of Gift-Worthy Birthstone Earrings

Birthstones never fail as a perfect gift. These elegant butterfly studs are made from gold-plated sterling silver, making them safe for people with sensitive ears. All 12 birthstone colors are available, and each design uses a complimentary silver- or gold-toned metal.


Some reviewers wished these earrings came in larger sizes. Past this, buyers loved the cute design, solid quality, and snug fit of the earrings. Many also recommended giving these earrings as a gift! 

No.9

Lifetime JewelryTriple Hoops Earrings

Triple Hoops Earrings  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$30.00
High
Reference price
$30.00
High

Look Fancy in These Gold-Plated Hoop Earrings

This pair of 24 karat gold-plated hoop earrings have posts made from surgical steel; these materials are ideal for people with sensitive ears. However, be sure to take care of this delicate jewelry to make it last a long time! 


Reviewers liked that they are quite lightweight and non-irritating, making them comfortable to wear. They also appreciated the sleek design, saying they look beautiful.

No.10

MinihopeHypoallergenic Plastic Post Earrings for Girls

Hypoallergenic Plastic Post Earrings for Girls 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$13.99
Mid
Reference price
$13.99
Mid

Adorable, Hand-Crafted Clay Earrings for Children

This set has 30 pairs of adorable hand-crafted designs, including animals, fruits, and flowers. These metal-free earrings are safe for children over three years old. The bright colors and cute designs are sure to capture your little one's attention! 


Some reviewers said these earrings tend to fall off. Others also noted that the plastic posts are thick and can be hard to put on. However, customers liked how the variety of designs can match many outfits! Most kids with sensitive ears experienced no issues with these piercings. 

Top 5 Earrings For Sensitive Ears

No. 1: Pavoi14K Gold-Plated Cubic Zirconia Cuff Earrings

No. 2: WssxcStud Earrings Set

No. 3: Pavoi14K Gold-Colored Chunky Open Hoops

No. 4: Raneecoco18K Gold Plated Silver Stud Earrings

No. 5: TarsusHypoallergenic Initial Studs

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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