“Toasted skin syndrome is the non-medical term for a skin condition that is caused by chronic exposure to low levels of heat or specific types of radiation," explains Dr. Rachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City. The medical term for toasted skin syndrome is erythema ab igne, which is derived from Latin, and means “redness from fire.” “Early phases appear as lacy or net-like (reticulated) pink or red patches which are the size and shape of the heat source,” says Shawna Jones, PA-C, aesthetic nurse practitioner with SkinSpirt. “If continued exposure occurs, the area will appear dusky and hyperpigmented.” And the symptoms of it can vary. “In early stages, the disorder is asymptomatic, however, there can be mild itching or burning involved,” says Jones. “Those at most risk are people who suffer from chronic pain and frequently utilize heating pads or heated other devices for pain management.”
What Causes Toasted Skin Syndrome?
Toasted skin syndrome happens due to repeated exposure to moderate heat, but can also occur from infrared radiation, notes Jones. Common heat sources include heating pads, laptop computers, heated car seats, heating blankets, space heaters and sauna belts. Those with jobs that are near heat, such as chefs who cook on a range daily, may also be more prone to toasted skin syndrome, notes Natalie Aguilar, RN, dermatological nurse and licensed celebrity aesthetician. Essentially, toasted skin syndrome can happen anywhere that skin is exposed to heat. “The typical location of the discoloration is the back of heating pads and the anterior thighs from a laptop computer,” says Jones. And it can also cause damage deeper than the skin. “The chronic heat can cause vascular changes, as well as collagen degradation,” adds Aguilar. “Repeated heat exposure damages superficial blood vessels leading to hemosiderin deposition hyperpigmentation, when excess melanin is released.” This, he explains, is what causes the discoloration.
How Is Toasted Skin Syndrome Treated?
Treatments range from topicals to more involved procedures. “Topical treatments are available, such as with steroids, vitamin A derivatives, or even lasers, to improve the appearance," says Dr. Nazarian. “Areas that are affected severely by this condition may have a slightly increased risk of certain skin cancers.” Unfortunately, though, toasted skin syndrome can be tricky and take a while to get rid of it. “Although the rash is not dangerous, it can be quite distressing to people who have noted it very challenging to decrease the redness and decrease the increased pigmentation on their skin,” says Dr. Nazarian. “Often treatment takes weeks; more severe forms can be irreversible.”
How to Prevent Toasted Skin Syndrome
“The best way to prevent it is to be cognizant of being in close vicinity to sources of heat consistently, such as in your home or in your workplace,” says Dr. Nazarian. To do this, she suggests that time with heating pads should be limited, space heaters should be left farther away from the skin (as to minimize consistently elevated temperatures), and protective measures can be put in place to separate your skin from heat from devices such as laptops. “It’s as simple as putting a pillow between your laptop and skin,” says Aguilar. “For others who need to remain in contact with heat, such as a chef, protective clothing can be worn in order to create a barrier between the heat and skin. Taking breaks and applying products that aid in dermal repair, such post-sun or sunburn products, are helpful as they cool the skin down and soothe irritation.” Finally, use your best judgment when it comes to the temperature you’re exposing your skin to. “Many of us are often tempted to use the highest levels of heat just to get warm quickly or sit right in front of a heater because it feels good,” says Aguilar. “When you feel something might be too warm, that should be one’s first sign to step back. It’s also important to avoid repeated exposure so that skin can be given the opportunity to return to homeostasis.” Next up: How to Get Rid of Blackheads In Your Ear
Sources
Dr. Rachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York CityShawna Jones, PA-C, aesthetic nurse practitioner with SkinSpirtNatalie Aguilar, RN, dermatological nurse and licensed celebrity aesthetician
