Make Sure Your Smartwatch Strap Does Not Cause Itching & Irritation with Toxicity Testing

Trends in Smartwatch Usage

In recent years, the use of smartwatches has seen a significant increase. According to a survey by Rakuten Insight Center, approximately 64% of Indonesians own wearable devices, with smartwatches being the most dominant. Among these users, 68% use smartwatches, and 66% plan to purchase a similar device within the next six months (Rakuten Insight Center, 2023). This growing popularity is driven by increasingly advanced health and fitness monitoring features.

However, despite their benefits, concerns have emerged regarding the potential presence of harmful chemicals in smartwatch straps that could cause skin irritation.

Why Do Some Smartwatch Straps Cause Itching?

Skin irritation caused by smartwatch straps can be attributed to several factors, including:

• Harmful Chemicals

• • Latex or Synthetic Rubber: Some individuals are allergic to latex, which can cause rashes and itching (Gawkrodger, 2018).
  • Dyes and Adhesives: Chemicals in dyes or adhesives used to bond strap layers can irritate the skin, especially if they are of low quality (ATSDR, 2022).
  • Possible Presence of PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): These chemicals are often used in fluoroelastomer-based smartwatch straps to provide resistance to water and oil but can also cause skin irritation (EWG, 2024; Zhang et al., 2021).

• Friction and Excessive Pressure

• • Straps that are too tight can exert excessive pressure on the skin, hinder airflow, and trigger irritation (Nguyen et al., 2022).
  • Rough or inflexible strap materials can cause friction, increasing the risk of redness or minor injuries (Gawkrodger, 2018).

• Sweat and Moisture

• • Trapped sweat under the strap can create a humid environment that promotes bacterial and fungal growth, leading to irritation, odor, or even skin infections (Grandjean et al., 2012).
  • Using a smartwatch during exercise without cleaning the strap afterward can worsen this condition (OECD, 2023).

• Allergic Reactions

• • Certain materials, such as nickel in metal parts of the strap or buckle, can trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to these metals (ACDS, 2023).
  • Some synthetic strap materials may contain substances that cause skin reactions like contact dermatitis (Gallo et al., 2012).

• Lack of Hygiene

• • Straps that are rarely cleaned can accumulate dirt, bacteria, and dead skin cells, potentially leading to irritation and skin infections (Rakuten Insight Center, 2023).
  • Long-term use without replacing worn-out straps increases the risk of allergies and skin reactions (EWG, 2024).

How to Minimize the Risk?

To reduce irritation from smartwatch straps, consider the following steps:

1. Choose Safer Materials: Avoid fluoroelastomer-based straps and opt for hypoallergenic silicone, genuine leather, or eco-friendly fabric straps.
2. Check Product Descriptions: Before purchasing a smartwatch, read the product description carefully to ensure the strap does not contain PFAS.
3. Avoid Wearing Straps Too Tightly: Ensure the strap is not too tight so the skin can breathe.
4. Regularly Clean the Strap: Wash the strap with mild soap and water to prevent the buildup of sweat and dirt.
5. Use a Skin Protector: If you must use a fluoroelastomer strap, consider using a protective layer, such as fabric, to reduce direct skin contact.
6. Replace the Strap if Necessary: Stop using or replace the strap if signs of an allergic reaction appear.

Awareness of potential smartwatch strap-related skin irritation risks is crucial for both consumers and manufacturers. With the right information and preventive measures, the risk of irritation or allergic reactions caused by strap materials can be minimized, ensuring that smartwatches remain safe and beneficial for health.

The Role of SIG in Smartwatch Strap Testing

For manufacturers and distributors looking to ensure their products do not cause itching or skin irritation, SIG Laboratory, an SNI ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory, offers Sensitization Testing Services. This testing evaluates the long-term effects of material contact with the skin that may lead to contact allergies. It is essential to ensure the long-term safety of smartwatch straps.

For more information on sensitization and irritation testing services at SIG Laboratory, contact us at 082111516516 or visit our website siglaboratory.com. You can also visit our office at Graha SIG, Jl Rasamala No. 20, Taman Yasmin, Bogor, Jawa Barat 16113.

References

• Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). (2022). Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls (PFAS). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
• American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS). (2023). Nickel Allergy and Dermatitis Caused by Wearable Devices.
• Environmental Working Group (EWG). (2024). Hidden ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Popular High-End Smartwatch and Fitness Tracker. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2024/12/hidden-forever-chemicals-popular-high-end-smartwatch-and-fitness-tracker
• Gallo, V., et al. (2012). Serum perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and liver enzymes in US adults. Environmental Health Perspectives, 120(5), 716-722.
• Gawkrodger, D. J. (2018). Contact Dermatitis: Allergic and Irritant Reactions to Wrist-Worn Devices. British Journal of Dermatology, 179(3), 554–560.
• Grandjean, P., & Clapp, R. (2015). Perfluorinated Alkyl Substances: Emerging Insights into Health Risks. New Solutions: A Journal of Environmental and Occupational Health Policy, 25(2), 147-163.
• Grandjean, P., et al. (2012). Serum vaccine antibody concentrations in children exposed to perfluorinated compounds. JAMA, 307(4), 391-397.
• Nguyen, V. T., et al. (2022). Endocrine-disrupting effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): Mechanisms and implications for human health. Environmental Research, 204, 112107.
• OECD Guidelines for the Testing of Chemicals. (2023). Test No. 404: Acute Dermal Irritation/Corrosion. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
• Rakuten Insight Center. (2023). Survey on Smartwatch Usage Trends in Indonesia. Retrieved from https://radiostar.harianjogja.com/2023/09/14/survei-64-masyarakat-indonesia-memiliki-wearable-gadget/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
• Zhang, X., et al. (2021). Toxicological Effects of PFHxA Exposure in Mammalian Models. Toxicology Reports, 8, 1024–1032.
• Zhang, Y., et al. (2021). Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Exposure and Health Outcomes: A Review of Human Epidemiological Studies. Environment International, 146, 106227.