Stay Away from Laptop Heat Burns: Easy Tips to Remain Comfortable and Safe
Have you ever noticed your thighs or stomach getting warm while working with a laptop? You're not the only one. Laptops, especially those in extended use, tend to heat up quite fast. And that heat isn't only annoying—it may really grab the lead to skin irritation or even minor burns. Miraculous, right? Believe it or not.
Let's break it down to the basics.
Why Do Laptops Heat Up So Much?
Laptops are basically tiny computers with intensive elements. These elements—like the processor and battery—give out as comfortable they are function. Under normal circumstances, internal fans and vents serve to dissipate the heat. But if you're working on your laptop from a soft surface like higher too a bed, pillow, or lap, then these cooling vents become obstructed. That's when the heat begins to accumulate—and that spells disaster for both your skin and your laptop.
What Are Laptop Burns?
It is a valid precondition. Physicians even have a title for it: "toasted skin syndrome" (or officially, Mather ab soigne). It seems to be a rash or colored spot on the skin where your laptop sat. If you continue exposing your skin to this heat over time, it can get worse. Additionally, some people have tingling, sensitivity, or even permanent marks on their skin.
So, although using your laptop in bed or putting it on your stomach may be comfortable, it's not necessarily the safest practice.
Easy Steps to Prevent Laptop Heat Burns
You don't need to forego using your laptop due to comfort. It only needs a more considerate and strategic approach to usage.
1. Utilize a Lap Desk or Laptop Stand
This is the easiest fix. The hard, level surface of a lap desk keeps your laptop up and air-conditioned. Additionally, it produces a barrier between the heat and your skin.
2. Avoid Soft Surfaces
Placing your laptop on a bed, blanket, or stacks of pillows its air vents. That makes the laptop overheat faster.
3. Invest in a Cooling Pad
You put your laptop on it, and it reduces the temperature. These are cheap and good for those who work for hours at a time on their laptops.
4. Take Breaks
Don't have your laptop lying on your lap for hours. Get rise, extend, and let your system cool for a bit.
5. Wear a Barrier
If you're working with the laptop on your lap, wear pants or put a thick fabric below. It won't eliminate the heat problem entirely, but it does decrease direct exposure.
6. Clear the Vents
Dust accumulates in laptop vents over time, mopping up airflow. Use a compressed air can or head to a technician to have your device cleaned out every now and then.
Other Health Reasons to Avoid Laptop-on-Lap Use
Other than heat burns, sitting your laptop on your lap can cause you to slouch. That is neck aches, back pain, and even eye strain. And when your wrists are bent at an odd angle, you're at a higher risk of developing hand or finger pain.