Only £69 with results in 5-7 working days
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Nickel is one of the most common metals found in jewellery, watches, coins, mobile phones, food and countless everyday household items. While most people tolerate nickel without any problems, some individuals have a genetic predisposition that may increase their susceptibility to nickel-related allergic reactions and inflammatory responses.
Our Nickel Sensitivity DNA Test analyses important genetic markers within the FLG and TNF-α genes, which are associated with skin barrier function and immune system regulation. By understanding your genetic predisposition, you can make more informed decisions regarding lifestyle, diet and environmental exposure to help reduce the risk of nickel-related symptoms.
This health DNA test provides personalised insights into genes associated with nickel sensitivity, inflammation and allergic reactions. Your results are presented in an easy-to-understand report with personalised recommendations designed to help you better understand your genetic profile.
What Is Nickel Sensitivity and Nickel Allergy?
Nickel sensitivity, often referred to as nickel allergy when symptoms develop, is an abnormal immune response that occurs when the body reacts to exposure to nickel. Although nickel is naturally present in the environment and widely used in everyday products, some individuals are genetically more susceptible to developing allergic reactions following repeated exposure.
Nickel sensitivity most commonly causes allergic contact dermatitis, resulting in redness, itching, dry skin and inflammation after contact with nickel-containing objects. In some individuals, dietary nickel may contribute to more widespread symptoms associated with Systemic Nickel Allergy Syndrome (SNAS), including digestive discomfort, headaches and fatigue.
While environmental exposure plays an important role, genetics may also influence how your skin barrier functions and how strongly your immune system responds to nickel.
Understanding these genetic influences can help you develop a more personalised approach to managing nickel exposure and supporting long-term skin and immune health.
What Can the Nickel Sensitivity DNA Test Tell You?
This test provides valuable insights into several important aspects of nickel sensitivity.
Genetic Predisposition to Nickel Sensitivity
Discover whether your genetics may increase your susceptibility to nickel-related allergic reactions.
Skin Barrier Function
Learn how genetic variations may influence your skin’s ability to protect against allergens such as nickel.
Inflammatory Response
Understand how your immune system may respond to nickel exposure and whether certain genetic variants may contribute to increased inflammation.
Risk of Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Identify genetic factors associated with an increased predisposition to skin irritation, redness and allergic reactions following contact with nickel.
Personalised Lifestyle Recommendations
Receive tailored recommendations relating to environmental exposure, nutrition and lifestyle factors that may help support skin health.
Easy-to-Understand Results
Your report includes clear explanations, colour-coded interpretations and practical recommendations designed to help you understand your results.
Benefits of Nickel Sensitivity DNA Testing
A Nickel Sensitivity DNA Test may help you:
- Better understand your body’s genetic response to nickel
- Learn how your genes influence skin barrier function and immune responses
- Gain insights into your predisposition to nickel-related allergic reactions
- Support discussions with healthcare professionals
- Make more informed lifestyle and dietary decisions
- Develop strategies to help minimise nickel exposure
- Take a proactive approach to long-term skin and immune health
The report also includes scientific references and explanations to help you understand the significance of your results.
Who Should Consider This Test?
This test may be suitable for individuals who:
- Experience skin irritation after wearing jewellery or watches
- Have recurring eczema or allergic contact dermatitis
- Frequently develop unexplained skin redness or itching
- Suspect they may have a sensitivity to nickel-containing products
- Have a family history of allergies or inflammatory skin conditions
- Are interested in personalised health and genetic insights
- Want to better understand their genetic predisposition to nickel sensitivity
Nickel Sensitivity Genes Analysed
FLG (Filaggrin)
The FLG gene produces filaggrin, an important protein responsible for maintaining the skin’s protective barrier. Variations in this gene may weaken the skin’s protective barrier, allowing nickel and other allergens to penetrate the skin more easily.
Research suggests that FLG may influence:
- Skin barrier integrity
- Skin hydration
- Allergen penetration
- Allergic contact dermatitis risk
- Skin sensitivity
TNF-α (Tumour Necrosis Factor Alpha)
The TNF-α gene regulates production of tumour necrosis factor alpha, an important inflammatory signalling molecule involved in immune responses.
Certain genetic variations may contribute to stronger inflammatory responses following nickel exposure.
Research suggests that TNF-α may influence:
- Immune response
- Inflammation
- Allergic reactions
- Contact dermatitis
- Systemic inflammatory responses
What’s Included in the Kit?
Your Nickel Sensitivity DNA Test kit contains everything needed for sample collection:
- Sterile cheek swabs
- Sample collection envelopes
- Step-by-step instructions
- Registration information
- Pre-addressed return envelope
- Laboratory analysis
- Comprehensive results report delivered by email
No blood sample is required.
Understanding Your Results
Your Nickel Sensitivity DNA Test results report includes:
- A summary of the genes analysed
- Your genetic profile for each marker tested
- Easy-to-understand explanations of your results
- Colour-coded interpretations
- Personalised recommendations
- Scientific references supporting the analysis
The report is designed to help you understand how your genes may influence your susceptibility to nickel sensitivity while providing practical guidance that may help you better manage exposure where appropriate.
See an example of the detailed analysis, personalised recommendations and scientific references included with every report.
The Science Behind the Nickel Sensitivity DNA Test
Scientific studies have shown that genetics can influence an individual’s susceptibility to allergic reactions and inflammatory responses, including sensitivity to nickel.
Skin Barrier Function
The FLG gene plays a vital role in maintaining the skin’s protective barrier. Certain genetic variants may reduce the skin’s ability to prevent allergens such as nickel from penetrating the skin, increasing susceptibility to irritation and allergic contact dermatitis.
A healthy skin barrier helps prevent nickel ions from passing through the outer layers of the skin. When this protective barrier is weakened, nickel can penetrate more easily, increasing the likelihood of triggering an immune response in genetically susceptible individuals.
Immune Response and Inflammation
The TNF-α gene helps regulate inflammatory responses throughout the body. Genetic differences may influence the intensity of immune reactions following exposure to nickel and other environmental allergens, potentially increasing susceptibility to allergic contact dermatitis and other inflammatory symptoms.
Genetics and Environmental Exposure
Although genetics can influence susceptibility to nickel sensitivity, environmental exposure, lifestyle and overall health also play important roles. Genetic testing should therefore be viewed as one component of a broader personalised health strategy.
DNA Testing Is a Simple Process
Providing your DNA sample is quick and straightforward.
Step 1: Order your Nickel Sensitivity DNA Test online.
Step 2: Receive your home DNA testing kit through the post.
Step 3: Collect your sample using the cheek swabs provided.
Step 4: Return your samples to our laboratory using the pre-addressed return envelope.
Step 5: Receive your results by email within 5-7 working days of the laboratory receiving your samples.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is nickel sensitivity (nickel allergy)?
Nickel sensitivity is an immune response that may occur when susceptible individuals come into contact with nickel-containing products or foods.
Does this test diagnose a nickel allergy?
No. This test identifies genetic variants associated with a predisposition to nickel sensitivity. It does not diagnose an allergy or replace medical assessment.
Can genetics influence nickel sensitivity?
Yes. Certain genetic variants may affect skin barrier function and inflammatory responses, influencing an individual’s susceptibility to nickel-related reactions.
Is a blood sample required?
No. This test uses cheek swab samples only.
Can this test help me reduce symptoms?
The report provides personalised recommendations that may help you better understand and manage your exposure to nickel. If you experience ongoing symptoms, you should consult a healthcare professional.
How are results delivered?
Results are delivered by email as a comprehensive personalised report.
Other AffinityDNA Health DNA Tests
If you’re interested in personalised nutrition and health genetics, you may also wish to explore:
- Carbohydrate Metabolism DNA Test
- Genetic Test for Your Aptitude to Sport
- Vitamin D Metabolism Test
- Zinc & Iron Metabolism DNA Test
These tests can provide additional insights into how your genes may influence nutrition, fitness, metabolism and overall wellbeing.
Disclaimer
Results are provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose, treat or prevent any medical condition. Always consult a physician or qualified healthcare professional before making medical, dietary or lifestyle decisions.
This test is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
