Is your cell phone causing your acne?
Our cell phones pick up a lot of bacteria. Hospital studies have found bacteria on many of the phones tested (Badr, Badr, & Ali, 2012; Ulger et al., 2009). Since our faces touch these devices several times a day, pressing a phone to your face may add to breakouts for some people.
To avoid cell phone acne, here are some tips to follow:
- Use a headphone set to talk on your cell phone. This way, your face has no contact with the bacteria-laden device.
- Wipe down your cell phone daily or at least weekly with an antibacterial wipe.
- Avoid pressing the cell phone too firmly against your face. Pressure and heat against the skin can trap oil and sweat, which can lead to breakouts.
References
- Badr, R.I., Badr, H.I., & Ali, N.M. (2012) Mobile phones and nosocomial infections
- Roberts, J. A., Yaya, L. H., & Manolis, C. (2014). The invisible addiction: cell-phone activities and addiction among male and female college students Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 3(4), 254–265. doi:10.1556/JBA.3.2014.015
- Ulger, F., Esen, S., Dilek, A., Yanik, K., Gunaydin, M., & Leblebicioglu, H. (2009). Are we aware of how contaminated our mobile phones are with nosocomial pathogens? Annals of clinical microbiology and antimicrobials, 8, 7. doi:10.1186/1476-0711-8-7
This article is general information. It is not medical advice and does not replace a consultation with a qualified clinician.
