We’ve all been there — a brand new piece of jewelry that didn’t cost a fortune has turned your finger a green mess. It’s not usually a dark green, either. Typically mixed with shades of blues and yellows, a green finger is nothing like a green thumb. Nope, instead, a green finger from jewelry typically indicates an allergy to something in the jewelry metal composition. Ever wondered whether you can prevent it? Here’s how! Of course, the easiest way to prevent your finger from turning green while wearing rings is to avoid metal rings in general. Instead, a silicone ring is a great alternative choice for rings of everyday wear and wedding bands. Reasons Your Finger Turns Green First, let’s talk about why your finger turns green in the first place. Like we mentioned, you’ve probably got an allergy to one of the materials found in the metal. Usually, the greenish-blackish-bluish-yellowish discoloration around your finger is accompanied by itchiness, soreness and even a rash or bumpiness. These are telltale signs of an allergy, especially if your metal ring has nickel present. Nickel is actually one of the most common skin allergies, and those who come into contact with it can suffer from an array of allergic reactions. Learn How to Measure Ring Size to Get the Perfect Fit There are some other reasons your finger turns green while wearing a ring, too. Metal abrasion, which happens when metals come into contact with other harsh chemicals (such as in makeup or even skincare products!), can cause black particles to rub off and onto your finger. Additionally, metal corrosion can occur. Corrosion is where particles from the metal are trapped under the ring due to the moisture between it and your finger. Basically, think sweat! Another reason your finger might turn green is due to improper ring size. It’s important for you to learn how to measure ring size correctly so that you don’t get a ring that’s too small. Rings that are too small can actually present as an allergy. From discoloration to itchiness, a ring that doesn’t fit properly can have you worried that you’re allergic to it when you’re really not! If the green discoloration is a huge hindrance to you, then you should consider alternatives for rings. Solutions for Green Fingers A ring that turns your finger green can sometimes be avoided! Here are some solutions and ways to keep your finger from turning green whenever you wear a ring. Avoid water: Since moisture tends to cause metal corrosion, try not to wear your ring in water. That means taking it off while you wash your hands, do dishes, swim or anything else that might cause your hand to be exposed to water for a prolonged period of time. Silicone Rings Won't Turn Your Finger Green Don’t put lotion on while wearing your ring: Similar to water, using hand cream or scented lotion while wearing your ring can cause your finger to turn green. Consider taking your ring off prior to putting anything on your hands. Put clear nail polish on your ring: Clear nail polish usually does the trick! That’s right — the nail polish acts like a protective barrier between your skin and the ring. It’s perfect for anyone who has truly sensitive skin. Try putting clear nail polish on the backs of buttons on your pants or any other metal item that can come into contact with your skin directly. It truly works wonders! Clean your rings consistently: A dirty ring can create more problems than you realize. While silicone is known to be the best material for men’s wedding bands, it’s also important to recognize that an unclean ring can cause skin irritation, discoloration and any of the other typical markers of an allergy. Because moisture and bacteria can build up on the ring’s surface the longer it isn’t cleaned properly, you’re inviting a potential reaction to occur! Don’t leave your rings out at night: Do you take your rings off and leave them in a jewelry tray on your night stand? You might want to reconsider. Humidity and exposure to chemicals in the air can negatively impact your ring, causing it to tarnish early. That tarnished ring can transfer the discoloration onto your own finger, which can make it irritated. Instead, seal your rings in a plastic bag or consider putting them in a jewelry box or other airtight location. That way, you can easily retrieve them the next morning, but you don’t have to worry about them getting tarnished over time. Consider an alternative ring: Sometimes, the hassle of caring for a metal ring just isn’t worth it. Instead, consider an alternative ring. Not only are they less expensive, but rings made from alternative materials are durable and are created for those who lead active lifestyles. Choose from one of our many silicone wedding bands for women to find the perfect band for your relationship!