Cell phone dermatitis is on the rise. A new form of nickel allergy (allergic contact dermatitis
to nickel) on the face and ears is appearing after using phones which contain nickel.
An article published in the Canadian Medical Association
Journal found that over half the cell phones tested with a dimethylglyoxime (dmg) spot test
tested positive for nickel. Menu buttons, decorative logos and metallic frames around the liquid crystal
display (LCD) were the most common sites where nickel was found on the mobile phones.
It appears that trendier fashionable cell phones often have metallic accents which contain free
nickel. When possible, researchers recommended nickel sensitive individuals test cell phones for nickel content
before purchasing.
The following cell phones have tested positive for nickel:
| Device/Model |
Location of
Nickel |
| Black Berry 8700c |
Speakerphone (back of phone) |
| LG VX8350 |
Around Camera & keypad |
| Motorola L2 |
Headset (decorative logo) |
| Motorola Razr |
Headset (decorative logo) |
| Motorola SLVR |
Headset (decorative logo) |
| Motorola Q |
Headset (decorative logo) |
| Samsung e105 |
Metal by the screen, menu
button |
| Samsung d807 |
Menu button |
| Sony Ericsson W600i |
Menu button |
| Sony Ericsson W810i |
Menu button |
| Sony Ericsson T610 |
Handset (if paint is
chipped) |
| |
|
| Devices tested bit did not contain nickel |
| Black Berry Pearl |
Nokia 6062 |
| Kyocera KX444 |
Nokia 6820 |
| LG VX8300 |
Nokia 6230 |
| Motorola i580 |
Nokia 6682 |
| Motorola i870 |
Palm Treo |
| Nokia 6061 |
Sony Z520a |
It is recommended individuals test mobile phones prior to purchase when possible. If a
cell phone containing nickel is currently owned, there are 3 options for owners to consider:
The duration and conditions of use greatly influence the likelihood of a reaction. Prolonged
contact especially in warmer environments enhances nickel transfer to the skin and will intensify the rash.
CMAJ January 1, 2008 178 (1) pgs 23-24
Dermatologist and Allergist Recommended
| 
