You might find it comfortable to stretch your legs on your bed while working or watching a movie on your laptop. However, placing the heat-emitting device on your thighs could be detrimental to your skin. The warmth generated by your laptop can result in toasted skin syndrome, which may lead to skin discoloration. This relatively rare skin condition can affect individuals even if they frequently use heating pads for extended periods. Continuous exposure to heat-emitting devices may elevate your risk of developing skin cancer.

What is toasted skin syndrome?

"Toasted skin syndrome, or erythema ab igne, is a skin condition caused by prolonged exposure to heat," explains dermatologist Dr. Shifa Yadav. As the name implies, this condition is characterized by the skin's "toasted" appearance. The areas most commonly affected, such as the legs, thighs, or lower back, are those that are regularly exposed to a heat source, resulting in discoloration.

Heating pad may lead to toasted skin syndrome. Image courtesy: Adobe stock

This condition is marked by a reddish-brown or fishnet-like pattern on the skin. Over time, the affected skin may become dry, rough, and thickened. "In severe instances, toasted skin syndrome can lead to skin damage, including changes in pigmentation or the formation of precancerous lesions," warns the expert.

Research published in Curēus in 2021 indicates that toasted skin syndrome is more common in women than in men. "This may be attributed to the fact that many women use heating pads during menstruation to alleviate discomfort," the expert notes. Additionally, children may also be at risk for this skin condition, as highlighted in a study published in Pediatrics in 2010. "If your child spends several hours each day playing video games with a laptop resting on their thighs, they may also be susceptible to this condition," the expert advises.

What causes toasted skin syndrome?

The leading factor contributing to toasted skin syndrome is the repeated or extended exposure to heat sources such as heating pads, space heaters, laptops, or even sitting close to a hot stove or utilizing seat heaters in vehicles, according to the expert. Prolonged heat exposure can damage the deeper layers of the skin, leading to discoloration.

"The heat causes the blood vessels to expand, which triggers the release of melanin in the skin, resulting in the appearance of dark spots," the expert explains. Additionally, prolonged exposure to heat may reduce the skin's elasticity and contribute to collagen breakdown.

What are the symptoms of toasted skin syndrome?

The symptoms of toasted skin syndrome include:

• Initially, there may be a slight reddening of the skin in areas exposed to heat.
• As time progresses, the skin may exhibit a fishnet pattern accompanied by brownish or reddish discoloration.
• While the skin may not be painful at first, it can become dry, rough, or scaly with continued heat exposure.
• In some instances, blisters or a burning sensation may develop.
• As the condition advances, permanent pigmentation changes or skin thickening may occur. 

"These symptoms should not be underestimated, as prolonged heat exposure can, in rare cases, elevate the risk of skin cancer in the affected regions," warns Dr. Yadav.

How to diagnose toasted skin syndrome?

To diagnose toasted skin syndrome, the following steps are typically taken:

• A dermatologist conducts a physical examination to assess the skin condition. "The unique appearance of the skin, characterized by its reddish-brown or fishnet pattern, aids in the diagnosis," the expert notes.
• The physician will also inquire about the patient's history of heat exposure.
• In certain cases, a biopsy or skin sample may be collected to rule out skin cancer or other forms of dermatitis.

Aloe vera gel can help if you have this skin condition. Image courtesy: Adobestock

How to treat toasted skin syndrome?

The approach to treating toasted skin syndrome varies based on the severity of the condition:

• In mild instances, the most effective measure is to eliminate exposure of the affected area to heat sources. A 2017 study published in the International Journal of Dermatology revealed that discontinuing the heat source led to complete recovery. "It is advisable to take breaks from devices such as laptops every 30 minutes to prevent extended exposure," advises the specialist.
• To address skin dryness or irritation, it is recommended to apply moisturizers, soothing creams, and ointments. "Products containing aloe vera can be particularly beneficial, as they help restore moisture and alleviate inflammation," states Dr. Yadav.
• In more severe cases, characterized by thickened skin or changes in pigmentation, treatments such as laser therapy or topical medications, including corticosteroids, may be recommended. "These treatments can assist in reducing inflammation and enhancing the appearance of skin affected by toasted skin syndrome," the expert notes.

Regardless of whether you rest your laptop on your thighs for extended periods or utilize a heating pad for pain relief, it is crucial to take regular breaks. Prolonged exposure to heat can result in toasted skin syndrome, which predominantly affects women and children.

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