Boy developed "toasted skin" condition from using a laptop every day
Laptops don't usually get hot enough to burn—but they can still be harmful.
A recent case highlights the importance of being mindful of laptop usage habits, particularly for heavy users. A boy developed a condition known as "toasted skin" after using his laptop every day, illustrating that while laptops may not typically get hot enough to cause burns, they can still pose a risk to users. This condition is a form of erythema ab igne, a skin reaction caused by prolonged exposure to infrared radiation.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential health risks associated with prolonged laptop use, especially for individuals who work or study on their devices for extended periods. The laptop's heat can cause damage to the skin, even if it's not immediately apparent. As the use of laptops and other portable devices continues to rise, it's essential for users to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to mitigate them, such as using a laptop stand or external keyboard to create distance between the device and the skin.
As the trend of remote work and digital learning continues to grow, it's crucial to monitor the impact of prolonged device use on users' health. To watch next: how the tech industry responds to this issue, whether manufacturers will design laptops with built-in safety features or cooling systems, and what guidelines or regulations may emerge to promote safe laptop usage habits.
Originally reported by arstechnica.com. NetNewsletter adds analysis for ai & agent economy readers.