 Body piercing jewellery should be hypoallergenic . A number of materials are used , with varying strengths and weaknesses . Surgical stainless steel , niobium and titanium are commonly used metals , with titanium the least likely to cause allergic reaction of the three . Platinum and palladium are also safe alternatives , even in fresh piercings . Initial piercings should never be done with gold of any grade , as gold is mixed with other metals , and sterling silver is not a good alternative in a piercing , as it may cause allergies in initial piercings and will tarnish in piercings of any age . An additional risk for allergic reaction may arise when the stud or clasp of jewellery is made from a different metal than the primary piece . 
