8. Hypoallergenic Properties and the Critical Nickel Binder Distinction For many individuals with metal sensitivities, the choice of a wedding band is often complicated by potential skin reactions, yet high-quality tungsten carbide offers a superior, hypoallergenic solution, provided consumers understand a critical distinction in its composition. Tungsten carbide itself is chemically inert and does not react with human skin. However, as noted in the manufacturing process, a binder metal is essential to hold the carbide particles together. The highest-grade tungsten bands rings utilize a corrosion-resistant nickel binder, and crucially, the nickel is molecularly locked into the tungsten carbide compound during the high-temperature sintering process. This means the nickel is not surface-exposed or leaching out, making the ring fully hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin. The problem arises with lower-quality, cheaper tungsten bands rings that often substitute cobalt for the nickel binder.