Sitting Close to Heaters in Winters can Cause Erythema Ab Igne

 

Sitting too close to heaters feels comforting in Islamabad winters, but it can silently damage the skin. This chronic heat exposure can lead to a condition called erythema ab igne, also known as “toasted skin syndrome”.

## What is erythema ab igne?

Erythema ab igne is a skin reaction caused by repeated exposure to moderate, non‑burning heat, usually over weeks to months. The affected area develops a net‑like (lacy) pattern of redness that can gradually turn brownish or violaceous. Over time, the skin may become dry, itchy, and mildly thinned, and in long‑standing cases there is a small but real risk of precancerous or cancerous change.

## Common everyday sources of heat

In local practice, the most frequent cause is sitting very close to gas or electric heaters in winter, especially with legs or back just a few inches away. Other sources include hot water bottles and heating pads placed on the same spot daily, car seat warmers, and even keeping a laptop on the thighs for long periods. Because the heat is “comfortably warm” and not burning, patients often do not realize the damage until the discoloration is obvious.

## How does it look and where does it appear?

Classically, erythema ab igne appears as a reticulate (net‑like) reddish or brownish patch that matches the area exposed to heat. On the legs it often affects the shins when a person sits directly facing a heater; on the back or abdomen it may follow the shape of a heating pad or hot bottle. In early stages the pattern may fade when heat exposure stops, but with ongoing exposure it becomes fixed and darker, sometimes with mild scaling or a slightly rough texture.

## Why is it a concern?

Many people take this rash as “just pigmentation from heater” and ignore it. Persistent erythema ab igne indicates chronic thermal injury to the skin, with alteration of collagen and elastic tissue. In long‑standing, untreated cases reported in literature, there is a risk of developing actinic keratosis‑like lesions or even skin cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma in the damaged area. Beyond the medical risk, the cosmetic impact—patchy brown, net‑like marks—can be distressing and difficult to treat once established.

## When to see a dermatologist?

A dermatology consultation is recommended if the rash is persistent, spreading, associated with burning or itching, or if there are any non‑healing scaly or ulcerated areas within the patch. A specialist will take a detailed exposure history (heaters, laptops, hot bottles, stoves) and examine the pattern and distribution. In doubtful or very chronic cases, a skin biopsy may be advised to rule out precancerous or malignant change.

## Treatment options at SkinDot Clinics

The most important “treatment” is to stop further heat exposure—the skin cannot recover while the same source of injury continues. Once that is addressed, management usually focuses on:

- Topical therapies to reduce inflammation and pigmentation, such as mild topical steroids for short periods and depigmenting or antioxidant creams.  

- Strict photoprotection, because sun exposure can worsen the pigmentation over already‑damaged skin.  

- For stubborn discoloration, procedural options like chemical peels, laser toning, or other pigment‑targeted lasers may be considered after clinical assessment.  

- In very chronic or suspicious lesions, excision or biopsy‑guided treatment is essential to address any precancerous change.

Response varies: early erythema ab igne may fade significantly over months once heat is avoided, whereas long‑standing lesions may only partially improve and need multiple treatment sessions.

## How to prevent heater‑related skin damage

Simple behavior changes can prevent erythema ab igne, especially during harsh Islamabad winters:

- Keep a distance of at least 2–3 feet from gas or electric heaters.  

- Avoid keeping the same body part directly facing the heater for long periods—change posture frequently.  

- Do not place hot water bottles or heating pads on bare skin; wrap them in a towel and limit use to short intervals.  

- Use room heating or layered warm clothing instead of intense focal heat wherever possible.  

- Monitor children and elderly family members who tend to sit very close to heaters.

## Key message from SkinDot Clinics Islamabad

Warmth is important, but so is skin safety. If you notice a net‑like reddish or brown patch on the legs, back, or any area that is regularly near a heat source, consider it a warning sign rather than a harmless mark. Early recognition, avoiding further heat, and timely dermatology consultation can prevent permanent discoloration and reduce long‑term risks. At SkinDot Clinics Islamabad, heater‑related pigmentation and erythema ab igne are seen every winter season, and tailored treatment plans are designed to address both the cosmetic concern and underlying skin health.

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