Falling Right Into Your Lap
December 27, 2010
Users of laptop computers may have reason to be concerned about more potential harm than repetitive-stress injuries. It seems that working with a laptop computer on one’s lap for extended periods of time can lead to so-called “toasted skin syndrome.” This mottled-skin condition, which develops into a sponge-patterned skin discoloration, is quite unusual in appearance. It is caused by the heat generated by the laptop, which leads to a skin burn that is similar to ones caused by overuse of heating pads. While “toasted skin syndrome” is generally harmless, it can lead to permanent skin darkening. Because the affected skin also resembles skin damaged by long-term sun exposure, researchers surmise that it can cause damage that leads to skin cancers.
P.S. “Toasted skin syndrome” has a history of affecting workers, such as bakers and glass blowers, whose jobs require that they be close to a heat source.
Is There a Safe Way to Tan?
December 20, 2010
While dermatologists will insist that there is no safe way to tan, there is one tanning method that does not require sitting in the sun or in a tanning booth. An active ingredient in tanning lotions called “dihydroxyacetone” received approval from the FDA in 1973 and has not been associated with any harm since then. As far as the effectiveness of sunless tanners is concerned, many find them to provide the tanned appearance they feel is physically attractive. When free test samples were handed out to women at a beach, users of the product reported they cut their sunbathing by 33 percent two months later. They also sunburned less and adopted the habit of wearing more protective clothing.
P.S. Melanoma, the deadly form of skin cancer, is the second most common cancer diagnosed in young women.
The Villages Office