Using Auger Analysis to Help Prevent Failure of Protective Oxide Layers

As someone who has worn costume jewelry before, I’ve experienced rashes on my skin due to an allergic reaction from the jewelry. I discovered that many inexpensive fashion jewelries contain nickel which can potentially cause skin irritation such as rashes, dry patches or even blisters. A temporary solution to this was to apply a clear nail polish coat to the areas on the jewelry that had prolonged contact with my skin. That did help; however, the layer of polish faded and cracked over time and had to be reapplied. The layer of polish functioned as a protective layer which temporarily served its purpose, to prevent nickel leaching onto my skin.

In this example, my allergic reaction was not serious and was easily treatable. But what can happen in cases where nickel leaches from an implantable medical device? What are the effects? How can that be prevented?