What Is Toasted Skin Syndrome?
Toasted skin syndrome, medically known as erythema ab igne, is a preventable skin condition caused by prolonged exposure to heat or infrared radiation without direct burns. Initially, the skin appears red, but it can develop a net-like pattern of reddish, brown, purple, or blue discoloration over time. The burned area may also show atrophy, scaling, and sometimes telangiectasia.
Common sources of heat exposure that may lead to toasted skin syndrome include:
Laptops
Space Heaters
Heated Car Seats
Hot Water Bottles
Heating Pads
Stoves
Causes and Symptoms of Toasted Skin Syndrome
Erythema ab igne results from chronic exposure to infrared radiation or low-level heat, which damages the superficial blood vessels in the skin. Hyperpigmentation is caused by the degeneration of elastic fibers and basal cells, releasing melanin, which presents as skin discoloration.
Symptoms of toasted skin syndrome include:
Mild itching or burning sensation
Initial mild redness on the affected area
Skin dryness and scaling
Persistent discoloration, even after heat exposure stops
Thinned or ulcerated skin
Diagnosis:
Toasted skin syndrome is usually diagnosed based on clinical appearance and history of heat exposure. Dermatologists do not need to take a blood test or biopsy of the skin to make a diagnosis. However, in some rare cases, a skin biopsy may be utilized to rule out other conditions, such as vasculitis.
Treatment:
The time it takes to treat or see improvement in toasted skin syndrome varies depending on the severity of the condition and the individual. Mild cases may resolve within a few months, while severe cases can take months or even years, and discoloration may be permanent in some instances. Treatment options for toasted skin syndrome include:
Removing the heat source
Topical treatments such as retinoids, vitamin A derivatives, hydrocortisone cream, or calamine lotion
Laser therapy
Skin cancer monitoring
Prevention of Toasted Skin Syndrome
It's essential to know how to prevent toasted skin syndrome, even by doing simple tasks such as:
Minimizing exposure time from heat or infrared radiation
Use a barrier like a pillow, lap desk, or clothing layer so there is no direct contact
Rotate heat exposure and avoid prolonged focus on a single area
Using the lowest heat setting on heating devices
Limit heating pad or hot water bottle use to short intervals
Maintain a safe distance from heat sources
Educating yourself on safe practices
Sources: