Don't panic girls.  There's a solution, but those months of purchasing Clarie's Accessories, Forever 21, and H&M jewelry may be put to an end.

A study out of UC- San Francisco connects nickel-based jewelry to skin dermatitis on the ear. The reaction may not be severe, but even constant itching is an indicator of a nickel allergy.

The study shows that most jewelry, in the $20 or less range, is made with high amounts of nickel. The FDA does not have any regulation on the use of nickel in these inexpensive eye and ear sores.

How to Handle Skin Dermatitis From Nickel-Based Jewelry

1. Throw it out: Unfortunately, it wasn't $6.50 well spent on those fake gold hoop earrings. Suck it up and throw away the crappy, hideous jewelry.

2. Buy real jewelry: It may cost a little extra, but at least your ear will be spared the swelling and possible puss leakage. 

3. Read the label: Think back to the "Reading is Fundamental" campaign, look for labels that read "nickel-free."

4. Use 1% Hydrocortisone cream or ointment: Get this cream and it will relieve the irritation from the contaminated jewelry.    

Just stay away from the cheap jewelry anyway, it's usually ugly. Plus, the jewelry turns green after the second day of wearing them.