Wear and Flare: Allergic Contact Dermatitis to Personal Electronic Devices

Personal electronic devices including smartphones, headphones, fitness watches, and continuous glucose monitors (CGM) increasingly are integrated into daily life, driven by consumer interest in data tracking and wellness. Prolonged skin contact with these devices has emerged as a source of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). This review explores the potential allergenicity of personal electronic devices, with the most commonly reported allergens including (meth)acrylates, metals, and rubber compounds. These allergens may be present in device components, casings, and adhesives. Exposure to mechanical friction and sweat as well as prolonged skin contact potentially enhance the risk for ACD. Diagnostic challenges are compounded by incomplete ingredient disclosure by manufacturers. With the personal electronic device market projected to experience massive growth, health care providers must be vigilant in recognizing and managing ACD related to these devices.