Surgical Steel vs. Implant-Grade Titanium: What's the Difference?

Why choosing the right metal matters for your piercings

“I got pierced with surgical steel.”

It's something we hear all the time in piercing studios. But do you really know what surgical steel means?

Contrary to popular belief, the term doesn't necessarily guarantee that a piece of jewelry is suitable for body piercings, especially during the healing process.

At ARAKNA Body Jewelry, we take material quality seriously. Here's why implant-grade titanium is our preferred choice.

What Is Surgical Steel?

The term surgical steel is a general description used for various types of stainless steel, including some used in medical instruments.

The problem? The term itself doesn't refer to a specific material standard.

You'll even find products such as cookware, kitchen utensils, and household accessories marketed as surgical steel!

While the word surgical sounds reassuring, it doesn't automatically mean a metal is suitable for jewelry worn inside the body.

Some stainless steels also contain nickel, a metal that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Surgical Steel vs. Implant-Grade Steel: They're Not the Same!

Certain stainless steels are manufactured to meet specific implant-grade standards. The difference lies in their composition, manufacturing processes, and material specifications.

Two important standards used in the body jewelry industry are:

• ASTM F136: Implant-grade titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V ELI).

• ASTM F138: Implant-grade stainless steel, typically 316LVM.

ASTM International develops technical standards for a wide range of materials, including those used in medical applications.

These standards help establish requirements for chemical composition and certain physical properties.

Reputable manufacturers may also provide material certification documents, commonly called Mill Certificates, to verify the metal's composition and compliance with the specified standard.

That's a lot more reassuring than a label that simply says “surgical steel”!

What About Nickel Allergies?

Nickel is one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis.

For sensitive individuals, exposure may cause redness, itching, irritation, or eczema.

Some stainless steels contain nickel, including implant-grade varieties. However, implant-grade steels have carefully controlled compositions and corrosion-resistance requirements.

While implant-grade stainless steel can be suitable for certain piercings, titanium is generally our first choice, particularly for fresh piercings and people with nickel sensitivities.

It's also worth remembering that irritation bumps aren't always caused by allergies. Friction, pressure, improper jewelry fit, and other factors can contribute to piercing irritation.

Why Do We Prefer ASTM F136 Titanium?

Implant-grade titanium offers several advantages that make it an excellent material for body jewelry.

1. Excellent Biocompatibility

Titanium is widely recognized for its compatibility with human tissue. It's used in numerous medical devices and implants.

2. No Intentionally Added Nickel

Unlike many stainless steel alloys, ASTM F136 titanium does not include nickel in its specified composition, making it an excellent option for individuals with nickel sensitivities.

3. Lightweight and Comfortable

Titanium is considerably lighter than stainless steel, allowing for strong, comfortable jewelry without unnecessary weight.

4. Highly Corrosion-Resistant

Titanium naturally develops a protective oxide layer that provides excellent resistance to corrosion under normal wearing conditions.

5. Beautiful Anodized Colors

Another advantage of titanium is that it can be anodized to create a variety of colors without applying paint or a colored plating.

From purple and blue to pink and certain golden tones, anodization offers plenty of possibilities for personalizing your jewelry!

Jewelry Quality Goes Beyond the Metal

Even when jewelry is made from an excellent material, other factors are essential for a healthy piercing.

Surface finish, jewelry design, sizing, and proper placement all play important roles.

Poorly fitted jewelry can cause irritation even when it's made from implant-grade titanium.

That's why we prioritize high-quality jewelry, secure attachment systems, and materials with verifiable specifications.

Should You Avoid All Stainless Steel Jewelry?

Not necessarily!

Implant-grade stainless steel that meets appropriate material standards can be a suitable option for certain piercings.

What you should be cautious about is jewelry with an unknown composition or pieces marketed simply as “surgical steel” without further specifications.

At ARAKNA, we prefer ASTM F136 titanium and high-quality solid gold suitable for body piercings. We believe beautiful jewelry should also be made from reliable, carefully selected materials.

🖤 Your Piercings Deserve Quality Jewelry!

Whether your piercing is brand new or fully healed, choosing the right jewelry matters.

Have questions about jewelry materials, nickel allergies, or finding the perfect piece? We'd love to help!

Explore our collection online or book a personalized piercing or jewelry appointment at our private Montréal studio.

Shop & Book: www.ARAKNA.ca

Keep the Art in Body Art. ♡

ARAKNA Body Jewelry
Piercing & Body Jewelry
Montréal, Québec, Canada
Private Studio • By Appointment Only
www.ARAKNA.ca