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New Delhi: Mobiles have become the ultimate
necessity in our lives today. But researchers have warned
that cell phone users are at risk of getting an itchy skin
problem. A team from the British Association of Dermatologists
has found that mobile users are increasingly developing rashes
on their faces and ears caused by an allergic reaction to
the nickel on handsets. And, according to the researchers,
the phenomenon is being seen in people who do spend long periods
of time on the phone, the British media reported. As a large
number of people are sensitive to nickel, which is used extensively
in cell phone handsets, including buttons and surround of
the screen, the team has dubbed the phenomenon “mobile
phone dermatitis” where the skin becomes red, inflammed,
blistered, dry and cracked. Moreover, according to the researchers,
women have a higher risk of developing mobile phone dermatitis,
as they are more likely to have been previously sensitised
to the metal following an allergic reaction to nickel-coated
jewellery. “The allergy results from frequent skin contact
with nickel-containing objects. Prolonged or repetitive contact
with a nickel-containing phone is more likely to cause a skin
reaction in those who are allergic.—Agencies |
