Redness and Swelling
If you are allergic to costume jewelry, your skin may turn red or swell after wearing it. This is a common symptom of a metal allergy, and it commonly occurs on the ears, wrists, or neckline, depending on where the jewelry was worn.
Rashes and Hives
Wearing costume jewelry can cause allergic dermatitis, which may manifest as a rash. This is typically itchy and irregularly shaped. In severe cases, hives - defined by red, itchy welts - might appear on the skin.
Itchy or Flaky Skin
Another common symptom is an itching sensation. In some cases, the skin around the area where the jewelry was worn may also become dry and flaky. This usually happens a few hours to several days after wearing the jewelry.
Blistering
Blistering may occur in more severe cases. A blister is a small pocket of body fluid (lymph, serum, plasma, blood, or pus) present within the upper layers of the skin. If you wear jewelry you're allergic to, you might notice blisters where the accessory touched your skin.
Pain or Tenderness
Pain or tenderness may be felt in the area where the jewelry made contact with the skin. The area may also be warm to touch. These symptoms can last a few hours or even a few days.
Darkening of the Skin
In some cases a person with jewelry allergy might experience hyperpigmentation. This means the skin around the area in contact with the costume jewelry might darken. This reaction often takes several days to appear after wearing the jewelry.