Medical researchers tested 22 cell phones and found that nearly half of them contained nickel – the culprit in a mysterious facial rash that has been dubbed “mobile phone dermatitis”. The British Association of Dermatologists issued an alert to clinicians throughout Great Britian when an increase in facial rashes occured.

Nickel allergy has been listed as one of the top ten causes of dermatitis by the Mayo Clinic. Nickel was found in the decorative logos, metallic frames around the liquid crystal display screens and menu buttons. Repeated contact with nickel in some people can lead to an itchy blister-like rash. In fact, a nickle allergy can develop after one exposure in some unlucky people. Once you develop the rash, any contact with nickel thereafter will cause a rash.

Once the rash occurs, it can last anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks. Think “mobile phone dermatitis” if you notice a peculiar rash near your ear and cheek after cell phone use and be sure to see your provider for treatment.