Flute metal allergy

Any metal can cause allergies, but by far the most common culprit is nickel.

Nickel is popular for jewelry because it is strong, holds up well to wear, and is relatively inexpensive. It's silver color gives the effect of real silver. Thus, it's popular for musical instruments, particularly the flute, and particular in less expensive flutes.

Nickel is also found in pottery, paint, and leather goods.

Typically women experience problems with metal allergies more frequently than men, but as men wear jewelry more and more, this is evening out.

More girls tend to play the flute at a younger age than boys do, so the problem with nickel allergy in the flute is found most often in girls.

Skin discoloration is a frequent sign of the flute placed against the chin for long periods of time.

True nickel dermatitis results in rash, itching, blisters, and drainage from the blisters when broken.

Most people don't experience symptoms this severe, but even a mild case can be very annoying.

What to do?

Covering the lip plate so the metal doesn't come in contact with the skin usually solves the problem. Here are a few ways to cover the flute lip plate...

- clear nail polish
- masking tape
- postage stamp

Be sure the tape or stamp doesn't extend over the embouchure hole.

In extreme cases, a repair person can apply rhodium to the lip plate. It will not wear off, it's clear, and has the added benefit of improving the tone quality.

If it's in the budget, a new headjoint can be purchased, preferably of silver. This is less expensive than buying an entire new instrument and the tone is improved almost as if the flutist had a silver flute.

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