A seemingly routine bedtime ritual has led to unexpected consequences, prompting a widespread health alert from medical professionals. Millions are now taking notice after a woman’s story went viral.

In a video that has garnered over 43 million views, Meagan shared her experience of developing a striking red and brown fishnet-patterned rash across her back. She linked this condition to her nightly use of a heating pad, which she relied on for chronic pain relief.

Although Meagan downplayed the severity of her condition, viewers quickly recognized the telltale signs of ‘toasted skin syndrome’ and expressed concerns over her casual attitude.

Also known medically as Erythema Ab Igne (EAI), toasted skin syndrome results from prolonged exposure to low-level heat, typically between 107 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit.

Unlike traditional burns caused by high heat, this condition develops gradually, often due to using heating pads, resting laptops on the lap, or sitting near space heaters for extended periods.

The syndrome initially presents as pink or red spots, which can evolve into a permanent net-like discoloration. In some cases, it may also cause itching or a burning sensation.

Dermatologists warn that while mild cases may fade if the heat source is removed, advanced, chronic EAI carries a small risk of developing into skin cancer, making it far from a harmless cosmetic issue.

Medical advice strongly cautions against falling asleep with active heating devices, recommending instead to use them for limited periods, typically no more than 20 minutes at a time, and always with a protective barrier, like a thick towel, between the heat source and the skin.

In a viral TikTok viewed over 43 million times, a woman named Meagan displays a fishnet-like rash called toasted skin syndrome across her back, a result, she says, of nightly heating pad use for chronic pain

The public reaction to the video posted by Meagan’s friend on her TikTok account was a mix of horror and shock. 

Meaghan, who is being recorded by her friend, said everything was ‘fine,’ and reiterated this from her personal TikTok account in the comments section. But several commenters replied with some iteration of: ‘No Meagan, it’s not fine.’

Another said: ‘Slow cooking yourself is something else.’

A third said: ‘I’m sorry but I would literally be panicking and calling 911.’

EAI often has no physical symptoms, such as pain or itching, so patients may feel nothing at all. Because of this, doctors rely on its unique visual signature, the diamond or fishnet-like rash, to make a diagnosis. 

The underlying mechanism is thermal damage to the skin’s delicate capillaries and structural proteins. 

The characteristic fishnet pattern emerges as the body creates new, superficial blood vessels to bypass the injured areas.

Prolonged heat damages the deep layers and supportive structures of the skin. This damage triggers the release of skin-darkening pigment, melanin, which settles in a net-like pattern that traces the blood vessels beneath the surface.

Medically known as Erythema Ab Igne (EAI), toasted skin syndrome is a skin reaction caused by prolonged and repeated exposure to low-level heat (stock image)

Although the rash often fades away within weeks or months after stopping heat exposure, there is a significant risk that the discoloration can become permanent. And, though exceptionally rare, may develop into pre-cancerous lesions.

Mild cases will resolve on their own, but for persistent rashes lasting months, many doctors recommend Vitamin A derivatives such as tretinoin or adapalene, which can help improve skin texture and pigmentation. 

People most at risk of developing toasted skin syndrome are those who use heating pads often for chronic pain, use space heaters at their desks daily and those who place laptops on their skin for extended periods.

The majority of the time, most people find that if they take away the trigger, like a heating pad, their condition will improve, subside or resolve. How long that will take is an open question. 

One commenter said she had the same rash on her stomach and it resolved after roughly two years.

Seeking evaluation from a dermatologist is essential for anyone with a suspected toasted skin syndrome rash. A specialist can confirm the diagnosis, provide guidance on care to promote healing, and, most importantly, check for any precancerous or malignant changes within the discolored skin.