Heat from laptops can cause “toasted skin syndrome” according to Swiss researchers. Sitting with a laptop in your lap can cause an unusual stippled skin condition due to continuing heat exposure.
Recently doctors are seeing more patients seeking treatment for sponge-like patterned discolorations on the upper thigh. A case in Virginia left Dr. Kimberly Salkey, assistant Dermatology professor at Eastern Virginia Medical School, at a lost until she learned her patient sat about six hours per day with her laptop actually in her lap.
Likewise, with a 12 year old boy who developed an oddly patterned discoloration after playing games on his laptop several hours a day over a period of months. The registered temperature of a laptop after a long period of usage in one sitting can average around 125 degrees or higher.
Although laptops are becoming the most common cause, it is not only causing of the discolorations. Overuse of heating sources such as heating pads can cause permanent darkening of the skin. Generally the use of heating sources are harmless because they do not produce enough heat to cause burns, however when used repeatedly, they can cause skin damage. In extremely rare cases, researchers say these heating sources cause damage resulting in various types of skin cancer.
No actual skin cancer cases reported have been linked to Toasted Skin Syndrome caused by laptops. However, Salkey, agrees with researchers saying the discolorated skin closely resembles sun-damaged skin under the microscope.
Previously released research found that in men who sat with the laptop in their laps, it significantly increased scrotum temperatures, which in long term could cause infertility due to decreased sperm production.
Most major manufacturers warn against extended use of laptops while sitting in the lap. Researchers recommend minimizing the amount of time a laptop is directly on the lap. Placing a barrier such as the carry bag between the laptop and skin will significantly reduce the risk of Toasted Skin Syndrome.