Titanium vs Steel: Materials & Care Guide
Selecting the ideal jewellery material is essential for ensuring a happy, healthy piercing experience. At With Bling, we offer premium options, including implant-grade ASTM F136 titanium and 316L surgical steel — both renowned for their beauty, comfort, and safety. Here's everything you need to know about these popular, hypoallergenic piercing jewellery materials:
ASTM F136 Titanium
Implant-grade ASTM F136 titanium is our top recommendation for sensitive skin and new piercings. It's medical-grade, lightweight, hypoallergenic, and virtually nickel-free — containing only trace amounts (typically less than 0.05%) that are unlikely to cause irritation. Because the nickel content is so low, it's considered safe for most individuals with sensitivities and is known to support faster healing and reduced inflammation.
316L Surgical Steel
For healed piercings, 316L surgical steel is a fantastic option. It’s highly durable, corrosion-resistant, and has a sleek, polished finish — perfect for everyday wear. While it contains small traces of nickel, it complies with international safety standards, which limits nickel release to 0.2 µg/cm²/week for piercings. It’s generally well tolerated by most, but may not ideal for those with severe nickel allergies.
Titanium vs Steel
Jewellery Care Guide
Titanium and steel are both low-maintenance, but a little care keeps them looking their best:
What is PVD Coating?
PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) is a vacuum-based technique that coats jewellery with a thin metal layer, creating a durable, long-lasting finish.
Titanium and steel naturally have a darker base tone, which is why we apply a PVD coating to enhance the finish. While most retailers only offer gold PVD, we also use silver PVD — giving our pieces a brighter, more luminous silver that truly shines.
PVD vs Plating
Choosing the right jewellery material and properly caring for it helps ensure your piercings remain happy and healthy. Whether you're team titanium or steel, With Bling has you covered with high-quality, skin-friendly jewellery designed for lasting comfort and beauty.
FAQs
Can I shower or swim with titanium or steel jewellery?
Yes — both titanium and surgical steel are waterproof and resistant to rust or tarnish. However, it's best to rinse and dry your jewellery thoroughly afterwards to remove any soap, chlorine, or salt. If your piece features cubic zirconia (CZ) stones, avoid prolonged water exposure as it may cause cloudiness over time.
How often should I clean my piercing jewellery?
Clean your jewellery every few weeks, or more often if it's a fresh piercing or exposed to things like sweat, lotions, or makeup. Regular cleaning helps keep both your jewellery and piercings in top condition.
Can I use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean my jewellery?
No — these harsh chemicals can damage the jewellery’s finish and irritate your skin. For safe cleaning, use mild soap and warm water instead.
Which material is best for sensitive skin?
Implant-grade ASTM F136 titanium is the top choice for sensitive skin thanks to its purity, biocompatibility, and hypoallergenic properties.
Are titanium and steel jewellery safe for long-term wear?
Yes — both titanium and surgical steel are durable, skin-friendly materials suitable for everyday and long-term wear.
Will the jewellery turn my ears green?
No — implant-grade ASTM F136 titanium and 316L surgical steel do not contain copper, which is the primary cause of green discolouration.
Can these materials rust or tarnish?
No — both titanium and surgical steel are highly resistant to rust and tarnish, making them ideal for long-term wear.
What's the difference between ASTM F136 titanium and other titanium grades (e.g. G23)?
ASTM F136 titanium is a certified medical-grade material used for implants, known for its exceptional purity, strength, and biocompatibility. While G23 is often marketed as implant-grade, it may not meet the same stringent standards as ASTM F136.
How long does PVD coating typically last?
With proper care, PVD coating can last several years. Its durability depends on factors like wear, exposure to water or chemicals, and how well the jewellery is maintained.
Can you be allergic to PVD coating?
Allergic reactions to PVD coating are rare, as the coating is inert and biocompatible. If you have sensitive skin or concerns, it’s best to consult a professional or do a patch test first.
How can I tell if I'm allergic to nickel, titanium, steel, or PVD before buying jewellery?
If you think you may have an allergy, it's best to consult a dermatologist or professional piercer. A patch test can help identify any sensitivities before you commit to a purchase.
What should I do if I have an allergic reaction to my jewellery?
Remove the jewellery right away and consult a professional piercer or healthcare provider for advice on treatment and alternative materials.
I've had an allergic reaction, can I return the piercings?
For hygiene and safety reasons, piercing jewellery cannot be returned. As we cannot determine individual sensitivities, we are unable to accept liability for any reactions that may arise from wearing our jewellery. We are responsible for manufacturing and accurately documenting the materials used. We kindly encourage customers to carefully review product descriptions before purchasing to ensure compatibility with any sensitivities to certain metals.
Can I use this jewellery for an initial piercing?
No — initial piercing jewellery must be sterilised in an autoclave. Most professional piercers use their own pre-sterilised jewellery to ensure proper hygiene and safety during the procedure.
Is this jewellery safe for children or babies?
Yes — both titanium and surgical steel jewellery are safe for older children and teens, as they are hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin. However, parental supervision and professional piercing advice are recommended. For younger children or babies, it's best to consult with a paediatrician or professional piercer for suitable options.
