Will Copper Turn Your Skin Green?

You’ve heard that wearing a copper ring can leave a greenish blemish on your finger or that wearing copper earrings can leave a green residue on your earlobes. Will this happen to you? Can it be prevented? Will copper turn your skin green?  

All great questions. Let’s get down to it and find out why this happens, how you can prevent it, and ways to remove any existing staining—so you can make an informed decision before investing in copper jewelry.

Why Does Copper Turn Your Skin Green?

Not everyone experiences the green staining effect from wearing copper rings, necklaces or earrings.  It has a lot to do with your own body chemistry. For those that do see the skin turn green where copper jewelry touches the skin don’t be alarmed, it is not harmful to you, it's mostly a nuisance. It's simply a reaction between copper, the air, and your body’s natural chemistry. Here are the main reasons this occurs: 

Oxidation

When copper is exposed to air it naturally oxidizes and forms a greenish-bluish patina. You may have seen oxidized copper in the form of green statues (like the statue of Liberty) outdoor copper fixtures and garden ornaments etc.  When copper is next to skin it also is exposed to sweat and oils from your skin which can help the process along a lot faster.

Skin pH Balance

Some people have naturally acidic skin, the reaction between your skin’s oils and the metal will accelerate the process leaving a green residue.

Lotions & Skincare Products

lotions, hand creams, perfumes, and other beauty products can also interact with copper, increasing oxidation and staining.

Humidity & Sweat

Wearing copper jewelry in humid climates or while you are building up a sweat whilst working out can speed up the oxidation reaction.

Does Coated or Treated Copper Prevent Staining?

So we now know bare copper can potentially turn your skin green depending on your body chemistry and environment, but what about jewelry that is coated or treated.  Will they still cause staining? 

While treatments or lacquers may initially slow down the process, in time with long time wear, regular handling, or friction against clothing could wear off the coating and potentially still create a green patina residue. 

Here’s some finishes you might find on copper rings, necklaces and earrings

Lacquered or Sealed Copper – A protective clear coating (such as jewelry sealant) this is often found on copper wire. It can help, but it may wear down with regular use.

Plated Copper Jewelry – Copper that has been plated with gold, silver, or another metal preventing the copper coming into direct contact with the skin.

Wax or Clear Nail Polish – A thin coat of clear nail polish or polishing wax on copper jewelry can act as a temporary barrier to reduce skin contact.

Copper Treated with Liver of Sulfur – Liver of sulfur is used to create a dark antique patina on copper, giving it dark oxidized finish. While this treatment reduces the bright copper color, it does not completely prevent skin staining.

How to Remove Green Staining from Skin

If you happen to find green stains on your finger from underneath your ring, or around your wrist from a copper bracelet, or your earlobes from copper ear wires, you can remove it simply with some warm soapy water.

Tips to Prevent Green Stains from Copper Jewelry

The best way to prevent a skin reaction from copper tarnish is to regularly clean your copper jewelry.

Use a Jewelry Cloth

If you have copper jewelry with gemstones it's best to only use a dry jewelry polishing cloth to keep your jewelry clean.

Use Soap & Water

If you have a simple bracelet or ring without stones or embellishments wash the item with mild soap and warm water.

Lemon Juice or Vinegar in a little water

Soak for a few minutes, rub with a cloth and then rinse and dry. The acidity in these ingredients helps dissolve any stains.

Baking Soda and lemon

Mix baking soda with a little lemon juice to create a gentle exfoliating paste, then rub it onto the copper, rinse and dry with a cloth.

Preventing a residue build-up

Keep Jewelry Dry

Remove before washing hands, swimming, or exercising.

Store Jewelry Properly

Keep copper jewelry in a dry, airtight bag or container when not in use. You could also use an anti-tarnish strip to prevent oxidation.

Apply a Clear Protective Coat

Use clear nail polish or jewelry sealant to form a protective layer where the jewelry touches the skin.

Should You Wear Copper?

Copper is a stunning element to incorporate into your jewelry collection.  It provides a wonderful warm metal tone that makes it very unique and a wonderful addition to your look. 

Will copper jewelry turn your skin green? It can for some people.  It’s a chemical reaction being exposed to air (oxidation) along with your own skin oils and body chemistry, but with the right precautions, you can continue enjoying your copper pieces without worry. 

If you know you are prone to copper tarnish on your skin then take the necessary jewelry cleaning precautions and store your jewelry in air tight bags or containers. You could create a protective barrier by applying a light coat of clear nail polish on the areas of your jewelry that make contact with your skin.  

 

 

If you have any concerns about ordering copper jewelry, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at paulamcnulty.com —I’m happy to help you find the perfect option!