As the mercury dips and the chill of winter sets in, many of us reach for the cozy comfort of heated blankets to keep the cold at bay. But before you snuggle up, a doctor's warning about the potential dangers of this wintertime staple might just give you pause.

Dr. Heather Kornmehl, a Texas-based dermatologist, has raised the alarm on a little-known but serious skin condition that can be caused by the prolonged use of heated blankets. In a TikTok video that has captured the attention of over 2.6 million viewers, Dr. Kornmehl explains the risk of developing erythema ab igne, also known as 'redness from fire'. This condition manifests as a red or brown rash with a net-like pattern and can be accompanied by itchiness.


Erythema ab igne is not just a temporary irritation; it's a permanent change to the skin that occurs when it's exposed to chronic low-level heat. This isn't limited to heated blankets – using hot water bottles, resting laptops on your legs, or leaning against a radiator can all have the same effect. The heat may not be intense enough to cause a burn, but it can damage the superficial blood vessels and the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, leading to the distinctive discoloration that marks this condition.


The National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that erythema ab igne was once commonly seen in bakers and industrial workers due to their prolonged exposure to heat. However, with the advent of modern conveniences like laptops and heated car seats, the condition has seen a resurgence. While removing the source of heat can reverse the condition if caught early, continued exposure or delayed diagnosis can result in permanent pigmentation and, more alarmingly, progress to various forms of skin cancer.


Erythema ab igne, also referred to as toasted skin syndrome, tends to be more prevalent in women and individuals with chronic pain, although it can affect anyone. Symptoms can range from none at all to itching, burning, or tingling pain. Dr. Ji Qi, a dermatologist from Baltimore, Maryland, emphasizes prevention by recommending the use of a buffer between the skin and the heat source. For example, placing a laptop on a desk or using a lap desk, and setting heating pads or electric blankets to the lowest setting or limiting their use.

If you notice your skin reddening, that's a clear sign to remove the heat source immediately. In milder cases, the skin changes may fade over time, but severe cases can result in permanent damage. Treatments like laser therapy and depigmenting creams may help with pigmentation, but the best course of action is prevention.

A stark reminder of the risks comes from a case study published in the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. A 42-year-old man, after using a heating pad for several hours at a time to alleviate chronic back pain from his labor-intensive job, developed a large, hyperpigmented patch on his back. The patch corresponded to the area where the heating pad was used, leading to a diagnosis of erythema ab igne.


So, as we seek warmth in the colder months, it's crucial to use heated blankets and other heat sources responsibly. Remember to keep the heat moderate, use barriers, and limit exposure time. Your skin's health may depend on it.
Dear readers, have you ever experienced any skin issues from using heated blankets or other heat sources? How do you stay warm and safe during the winter? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below – your insights could help others avoid these hidden dangers.