Your mobile phone could trigger acne, headaches and dry eyes, here's how

Headache causes: Prolonged screen time can strain your eyes, leading to tension headaches. Additionally, the blue light from your phone can interfere with sleep, worsening headaches (Image: Canva)

Nomophobia or not, many of us find ourselves glued to our phones most of the time. Excessive mobile phone use has become a pressing issue, affecting more than just your sleep and productivity. Studies show that prolonged screen time can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to problems such as insomnia and reduced sleep quality. Additionally, the blue light emitted from screens interferes with melatonin production, further exacerbating sleep issues and other health issues.

Here are 6  ways that using your phone too much can contribute to acne:

Increased oil production: Holding your phone close to your face can transfer oils and dirt from your hands and face onto the phone’s surface. When this dirt is pressed against your skin, it can clog pores and lead to acne.

Bacterial transfer: Phones are breeding grounds for bacteria due to frequent handling and contact with various surfaces. Bacteria can transfer from your phone to your skin, potentially causing breakouts.

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Touchscreen contact: Regularly touching your phone screen and then touching your face can spread bacteria and oils from the screen onto your skin. This can aggravate acne, especially if your phone screen is not regularly cleaned.

Poor hygiene habits: If you use your phone in bed or while eating, it can contribute to poor hygiene practices. This can increase the likelihood of acne, as food particles and oils from your hands can transfer to your face.

Dry eyes: Staring at your phone for long periods can lead to dry eyes. You blink less often while focusing on a screen, which reduces moisture on your eyes, causing discomfort and irritation. For example, if you are scrolling through social media for hours, you might end up with dry, tired eyes by the end of the day.

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Headaches: Prolonged screen time can strain your eyes, leading to tension headaches. Additionally, the blue light from your phone can interfere with sleep, worsening headaches. For instance, using your phone late into the night might result in frequent headaches due to both eye strain and disrupted sleep.

Screen heat: Phones generate heat during use, which can contribute to sweating. Sweat, combined with oils and bacteria, can clog pores and lead to acne outbreaks.

Stress and sleep disruption: Excessive phone use, especially before bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns and increase stress levels. Both factors are known to exacerbate acne by affecting hormone levels and immune function.