Home > Current Controversies > Cell Phone Dermatitis Get the Flash Player to see this player. Rate: (Click the stars to rate) Published on Nov 10, 2009 by HLBrooks, Views: 5286 Cell phone dermatitis: Dr. Howard Brooks, a dermatologist, discusses a a new rash that is happening with excessive cell phone use. Nickel, which is found in cell phones and watches, can cause an allergy. If you notice a rash on the side of the face where you are using the cell phone, it may be from the cell phone.