As more and more people turn to silicone rings and other silicone products as an alternative to metal, the question we often get asked is about allergic reactions. One of our most frequently asked questions is “Can you be allergic to silicone rings?” It’s a valid question to ask, too. When it comes to metal allergies, some scholars report that about 20 percent of the population experience reactions to metal. So, why wouldn’t they also have reactions to silicone, too? Of course, when it comes to silicone rings, they’re typically known as a hypoallergenic material. However, there is one way you could experience an allergy to a silicone ring. If it contains latex. Now, let’s set the record straight for a second – QALO products do not contain latex. Instead, we use 100 percent pure silicone, no fillers included. That means you’re getting a quality silicone product, which isn’t something the other guys can boast about. Sure, it means our products cost slightly more than our competitors, but it also means that, as our customer, you can rest easy knowing exactly what’s in your silicone products. It’s the same for both you and your pet. That’s right – our silicone dog tags are also made from the highest quality of materials, so your furry family members shouldn’t experience any allergic reactions, either. Get Silicone Dog Tags for Your Pups! But, we know we’re not the only ones out there making silicone products. So, it’s important we acknowledge that some manufacturers of silicone jewelry will put fillers – or, more simply, additional materials – into their products to cut costs. While you’ll be spending less money up front, you’ll run the risk of wearing a piece of silicone jewelry that’s made from poorer quality materials and can even cause an allergic reaction. Latex allergies are no joke – did you know that those with severe reactions to latex can experience anaphylaxis? If you’re wearing a silicone ring with latex in it and don’t even know it, you could be toying with a potential latex allergic reaction. It’s important that you pay close attention to where you’re purchasing your items from and the materials used in them. That’s why we stand by our products so proudly. We know how important it is for our customers to enjoy their lifestyles, and allergic reactions can seriously damper that! Latex vs. Silicone Briefly, let’s go over the difference between latex and silicone. Many people assume because they have similar textures that they’re made from the same chemical compounds. That just isn’t true. Latex is a natural material made from a rubber tree. Silicone, while also a naturally occurring ingredient, can be made from silicon. Silicone rubber, which most silicone jewelry is made from, comes from silica sand. Despite having the same texture and feel, latex and silicone are not the same material. Therefore, individuals who have an allergy to latex shouldn’t have an allergy to silicone. In fact, silicone products are one of the best alternatives to latex! Browse Our Collection of Silicone Rings How to Spot a Latex Allergy Now that you know the difference between latex and silicone, let’s go over how you can spot a latex allergy. Knowing the signs of a latex allergy can help you identify if you’ve been exposed to latex, especially if it’s in your silicone ring! Mild signs: Mild signs of a latex allergy include an itchy sensation on the skin under your ring, redness or even swelling or hives. Mild signs can turn into severe signs if untreated or with continued exposure. Severe signs: Severe reactions to a latex allergy can result in anaphylaxis and, potentially, death. Some signs of a potentially severe reaction to latex include difficulty breathing, scratchy throat, dizziness, cough, runny nose and even vomiting. If you experience sudden confusion or a drop in blood pressure, then you could be experiencing anaphylaxis and need to seek emergency medical care. Since latex allergies are nothing to play around with, knowing the signs of an allergic reaction to latex could save your life or someone else’s. When you know what to look out for, it can really ensure that you stay safe! These signs are the same in animals, too. Common in household pets, you shouldn’t play around with latex allergies in animals, either. Luckily, our silicone dog collar and leash sets are made from premium silicone and without any fillers, including latex, so your pupper shouldn’t have any reactions.