The connection between technology and skin, while it may sound absurd, is nothing new. Ever since we started communicating via landline phones—and later switched to cell phones—we've been putting our skin to a huge test. Unfortunately, this battle remains an unequal one. Recent research reveals the types of threats lurking on the appearance and health of our skin when using phones, laptops, and tablets. If you interact with these devices daily, read on to learn how to protect yourself from their harmful effects.

Bacterial habitat

Think about how often your phone, laptop, or iPod touches various surfaces, anything spilled or scattered on them, things in your bag, or simply the hands of other people using your device. Also consider how many things you touch—doorknobs, faucets, someone else's hand when greeting someone, or even food—and then pick up your phone. Your mobile devices come into contact with your hands at almost every step, thus transferring bacteria back and forth—from your hands to your phone, and from the phone to your hands, or worse, to your face. In fact, the phone you're currently holding to your face leaves a lot of dirt and bacteria on your face. To prevent this, or at least minimize it to a large extent, start diligently using cleaning cloths designed for these devices. Of course, you also shouldn't forget to wash your hands frequently.

Makeup Destroyer

I don't think any of us spends the morning carefully applying makeup only to wipe it off our phone screen after our first morning call. Unfortunately, it often happens that our makeup gets left on our smartphone screen. What's more, if you throw your phone in your bag without wiping it first, it will stain everything else. If your makeup is very minimal, your phone and all the other gadgets in your bag are safe. However, most of us use foundation every day, which can leave marks. Invest in a makeup product that's longer-lasting and lasts longer. Every time you finish a call, wipe your phone with a tissue. Even a simple napkin or tissue will work. You can also buy a special mini spray – perfect for your bag – designed for cleaning screens.

More UV rays

It's quite surprising, but recent research has shown that using a phone or tablet while sunbathing increases the intensity of UV rays by 85%! This is quite frightening, because for many of us, even vacation isn't a reason to put down our mobile devices. Fortunately, there are no studies confirming that using a phone or tablet on hot days causes skin diseases, but you are certainly more susceptible to sunburn. In such a situation, even the best sunscreen or sunglasses may not be able to protect you from the sun's power.

While using technological gadgets is very common, sometimes it's worth putting them aside and devoting time to friends, or even yourself. Remember to wipe your phone thoroughly after each use. You may not completely eliminate all bacteria, but you'll certainly protect your skin from additional contamination.