During the winter months, many people use heating pads, electric blankets, and heated car seats.
At the same time, it has become common to work from home with a laptop placed directly on the legs.
These heat sources do not feel dangerous because they do not burn, but they emit heat over extended periods.
This type of prolonged heat can affect the skin without clear warning signs.
Also read: How to drink your tea for the greatest health benefits, according to research
As a result, many people only notice the problem once the skin has already changed in appearance.
What happens to the skin?
The condition is called erythema ab igne.
Doctor Joe Whittington has warned in a TikTok video that the skin can develop a reddish-brown discoloration in a net-like pattern when it is exposed to low heat repeatedly.
He explains, however, that the changes often disappear if the heat source is no longer used.
Also read: This is what you can do to help prevent chronic kidney disease
Harvard Health explains that the heat is not strong enough to cause burns.
According to Dr. Toni Golen from Harvard Medical School, the heat causes the small blood vessels just beneath the skin to widen.
Over time, this can lead to visible discoloration, even without pain.
Why it matters
In rare cases, the phenomenon can become more serious.
Also read: How to improve your sleep if you have irritable bowel syndrome
Healthline reports that long-term exposure to heat can lead to changes in skin cells, which in some cases have been linked to skin cancer.
Experts therefore recommend limiting direct heat against the skin and using protection, such as placing a barrier under the laptop.
If the skin changes do not disappear, you should contact your doctor.
Sources: LADbible, TikTok, Harvard Health, and Healthline.
Also read: Avocado consumption linked to lower risk of cardiovascular disease