The Potential Dangers of a Cracked Phone Screen

By Jasmine Melikyan

January 10, 2024   •   Fact checked by Dumb Little Man

is it safe to use a phone with a cracked screen

In the early days of cellular phones when you drop your device, you could just bend down, pick it up, dust it off, and you are good to go. No damage, no nothing.

But today, when you drop your probably very expensive smartphone, which is, let’s be honest, a lifeline none of us can live without it, you are sure to find the shiny and sleek display shattered to million pieces. Yes, it might still work without a hitch but should you really keep on using a smartphone with a cracked screen? The answer is a hard ‘no’. You should either get the screen replaced or buy a new phone.

You might ask, why would I do that if it’s still working? Well, except for the obvious aesthetic reasons, there are some functional, productivity and even health-related issues that can occur when you use a damaged screen. Want to know what these are? Let’s get started.

Harmful Radiofrequency Radiation

According to the National Cancer Institute, smartphones release radiofrequency radiation which is a non-ionizing radiation from the smartphone’s antenna. When using your cracked phone screen, your body will absorb more of this radiation as the added layer of protection is essentially gone.

The IARC has stated that radiofrequency from cellphones are “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” Yes, nothing has been proven yet as The American Cancer Society further explains that more research must be done to firmly say that cell phone use poses no health risks to users. But better safe than sorry, right? So, by default, our trendy, innovative smartphones already pose the possibility of producing detrimental radiation. Hence, your cracked screen only increases its potential to do you harm.

Touch Screen Malfunction

smartphone with cracked screen

If your phone screen is shattered, it’s not going to get better over time, trust me. Fact is, the first thing that will worsen in terms of functionality is the touch screen sensitivity and accuracy of your phone. It may take longer for your display to respond to swipes and taps, or even worse, it will stop responding.

A cracked phone screen is also susceptible to sweat, finger oils, dust, debris that can now easily penetrate under your screen, damaging the phone even more through time.

Eye Strain

Nowadays smartphones come with sleek OLED displays that offer users a great viewing experience and an excellent touch screen accuracy. When your display cracks though, you can wish that great viewing experience farewell.

You ask why?

Well, the tiny fractures on your screen make it harder to read the information on your display. If you want to figure out what you are reading or watching, then you might find yourself straining. How do you know you are straining your eyes?

Check if your eyes are tired and itching and if they are watery or dry. Another sign is increased sensitivity to light and frequent headaches. For sure, no one wants to risk their health because of a cracked screen. Do you know how much a LASIK procedure is? You will be better off just changing that screen.

Splintered Fingers

With a cracked phone screen, you put your fingers (and your health) at risk from cuts when you try to swipe and glide your finger over the uneven and jagged surface. It’s only natural for you to get hurt as a result of your phone screen having serious cracks. Moreover, the blood from your finger can penetrate into the hairline fractures of the screen, promoting germs. Every time you pick up a call and the possibly infected display touches your face or ear, you risk breakouts and other unpleasant infections. An absolute no-no.

Conclusion

And there you have it. A phone with a cracked screen is not only bad-looking, but can also affect your productivity and overall well-being. Make sure to gear up your cell phone with necessary accessories such as protective cases and screen protectors to minimize the risk of damage to your newly acquired gadget. This seemingly minor yet essential step can save you money and protect your overall health in the long run. So, don’t settle for a damaged screen that can very much harm you. Instead, use precautionary measures to keep your precious investment looking new as the first day you got it.

Did you know the risks that come with using a broken smartphone screen? Share with your friends, get educated, and get covered in style!

Jasmine Melikyan

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