When the temperature is just about freezing outside, it's natural to want to cozy up by the fire or warm up with your trusty heating pad or blanket.

HOUSTON — As colder temperatures sweep across the country, dermatologists are warning about a lesser-known condition known as Toasted Skin Syndrome, which has gained attention on TikTok for leaving ...

While the advantages of using a heating pad while sleeping are appealing, it's essential to weigh the possible risks involved with this habit. One of the primary concerns is the danger of burns ...

such as heating pads, electric blankets, or even laptops. Toasted skin syndrome occurs when the skin is exposed to heat sources that are not hot enough to cause burns but are sufficient to cause ...

It's recommended to use a heating pad for 15-20 minutes at a time, with a 30-minute break in between, says Dr Laliwala, adding that following this time period helps prevent burns and skin irritation.

"So it happens before you would actually burn your skin," Lipner tells ... Lipner and Friedman say laptops and heating pads are the most common culprits of toasted skin syndrome.