SCREEN STRESS
Janine Mendes-Franco
How your devices may be damaging your skin
In our increasingly digital world, most of us spend hours each day in front of screens – whether for work, entertainment, or social connection. Let’s break down the hidden dermatological effects of our screen habits and find out what we can do to minimise them…
The bad effects of blue light
Our phones, tablets, computers, and even LED lighting emit high-energy visible (HEV) light, commonly called blue light. Prolonged exposure can induce oxidative stress in the skin, contributing to premature ageing, inflammation, and hyperpigmentation.
This can be exacerbated in those struggling with melasma, a chronic skin condition that causes patchy brown or grey-brown pigmentation, typically on the face. While melasma has many triggers, including hormones and UV light, blue light exposure may worsen it, especially in those with darker skin types (Fitzpatrick skin types III–VI).
How to protect yourself
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which helps shield against visible light.
Look for skincare with antioxidants like vitamin C or niacinamide, to help neutralise blue light damage.
Consider screen protectors or blue light filters on your devices.
Limit unnecessary screen exposure, particularly at night.
Tech-related acne
Phones are breeding grounds for bacteria. When held against the face during long calls or worn as part of a gaming headset, they can trigger acne mechanica – breakouts caused by friction or heat. Add sweat and stress to the mix, and you have the perfect storm for clogged pores.
How to protect yourself
Regularly clean your phone screen and headphones with alcohol wipes or antimicrobial sprays.
Use non-comedogenic skincare, especially around your jawline and cheeks.
Opt for hands-free communication whenever possible.
Eye strain (and more!)
Spending hours squinting at small screens doesn’t just affect your vision. Over time, that constant squinting can lead to furrowed brows and fine lines around the eyes, mimicking premature ageing.
How to protect yourself
Follow the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Use moisturising eye creams with peptides or retinols if you can tolerate them.
Consider blue light–filtering glasses, especially for extended work sessions.
Gaming callouses
For gamers, prolonged gripping of a controller or frequent swiping on mobile devices can lead to a whole lot of mechanical skin issues:
Gamers' thumb is a type of repetitive stress injury affecting the thumbs, resulting in blistering, callousing, or even peeling of the skin at the base of the thumb or fingertips. Over time, this friction can harden into callouses and lead to discomfort when using your hands.
Some people also develop smartphone pinky, where the little finger shows a slight indentation or soreness from supporting the weight of a phone for long periods.
How to protect yourself
Take frequent breaks during gaming or scrolling.
Use ergonomic grips or padded controllers.
Apply an emollient or barrier cream to reduce friction and restore moisture.
For callouses, a gentle pumice along with the cream can help smooth and soften the skin.
It’s really important to not let the condition fester. At the first sign of trouble, come and see one of our dermatologists before the situation gets worse and more difficult to treat.
Balance is everything
Screens are now part of our lives, but we can be mindful about how long, how close, and how often we use them. At Serpentine Dermatology, we encourage you to:
Get regular skin check-ups, especially if you notice new pigmentation or persistent irritation.
Choose skincare products suited to your lifestyle (ask us for recommendations) and
Take breaks from time to time; your skin will thank you for it!