How to Treat a Rash From a Cell Phone

After a weekend of heavy cell phone usage, you notice a terrible rash on your left cheek and ear. Horrified, you run to your local pharmacist for advice, only to find that your favorite mobile device has caused your unsightly complexion. According to the National Institutes of Health, "cell phone rash" is in fact the result of a common allergic reaction to nickel. With the ubiquity of mobile phones and the rise of unlimited usage plans, more and more people have reported problems with this type of contact rash. Follow the steps below to treat your rash and prevent it from reappearing.

Instructions

Prevention

• 1

  Stop using your cell phone so much. Mobile phones perform many functions, but there are no "apps" for nickel allergy prevention. The more you use your cell, the more you will experience symptoms. Cutting down usage will reduce the burning and itching more than any other suggestion in this article. Unfortunately, this particular brand of "abstinence" may present some logistical problems in our increasingly device-dependent world. New applications and firmware upgrades give us new uses for our cellular phones virtually every day. Fortunately, there are options for those of us who can't do without our mobile device of choice.

• 2

  Purchase a protective sleeve for your phone that includes a transparent screen cover. Cell phone manufacturers use nickel as an ingredient in multiple parts of your phone, from the buttons to the metallic frame that holds the liquid crystal display (LCD) in place. A protective sleeve will reduce symptoms by preventing the nickel parts of your phone from directly touching your skin.

• 3

  Go hands-free. Start using the speaker phone instead of holding the phone up to your face, or purchase an ear piece accessory that will allow you to carry on a conversation with your nickel-laced phone securely in your pocket. According to the British Association of Dermatologists, serial texters with sensitive skin should consider wearing gloves to prevent cell phone rash from developing on their fingertips.

Treatment

• 4

  Treat the affected areas with over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream, or apply aloe vera lotion to relieve itching as needed throughout the day.

• 5

  Take an over-the-counter anti-allergy pill to reduce itching and inflammation.

• 6

  Wash your hands, face and ears regularly. Carry a pack of moist wipes for times when you won't have access to soap and water.