You’ve heard of “sick building syndrome,” but a top dermatologist is identifying a new “office syndrome” that’s affecting the skin of millions of workers. The key culprits are the hours spent on calls with earbuds or headsets, leading to a predictable pattern of work-related breakouts and irritation.
This syndrome is a form of occupational dermatitis. A skin expert explains that the constant use of communication devices required by modern office jobs creates a chronic source of friction and occlusion. This leads to acne mechanica, which is no different from the acne a violinist gets on their chin or a football player gets under their helmet. It’s a direct result of the “uniform.”
The problem is exacerbated by the office environment itself. The dermatologist notes that indoor air can be dry, leading to compensatory oil production. Stress from deadlines can also trigger hormonal fluctuations that increase sebum. When this excess, stress-induced oil gets trapped under a headset for an all-day meeting, a breakout is almost inevitable.
To combat office syndrome, ergonomic principles should be applied to your skin. The expert suggests advocating for a “menu” of communication options at work—sometimes a headset, sometimes a speakerphone, sometimes a conference call system. Taking your headset off during your lunch break and cleaning it at the end of each day should be as routine as logging off your computer.
If you’re already suffering, don’t just blame it on work stress. Recognize it as a treatable medical condition. A dermatologist can provide effective treatments to manage the breakouts. Your employer’s wellness program might also be a resource for advocating for more skin-friendly communication practices in the workplace.
