Shiny phones lead to rash of rash

Too much yakking = spotty teenagers

Posted in Mobile, 16th October 2008 18:23 GMT

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The British Association of Dermatologists is warning that excessive mobile phone use can lead to an unsightly rash across the face and ears and wants doctors to look out for it.

The problem is caused by metal cases, which are increasingly popular as fashion becomes more important than function. Rubbing nickel-heavy alloy against sweaty skin for hours is a great way to realise an allergy you never knew you had.

"In mobile phone dermatitis, the rash would typically occur on the cheek or ear, depending on where the metal part of the phone comes into contact with the skin," say the skin experts, who also warn that nickel in buttons could cause the same problem in fanatical texters.

Apparently 30 per cent of the population is allergic to nickel, with women being particularly prone having been exposed to the metal through their jewellery. 10 out of 22 handsets tested had nickel in the case, so the rest of the population is probably becoming sensitised right now.

Of course, the whole thing is probably just a ploy to get more people using the iPhone with its face-friendly glass fascia - but we'll stick with our Bakelite telephony equipment, just to make sure. ®

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