A bracelet against sunburn

A bracelet against sunburn

Created in Scotland, the bracelet changes color when ultraviolet exposure exceeds the recommended limits

  Researchers at the University of Strathclyde, in Glasgow, have developed a simple and economical system to prevent the risks of excessive exposure to the sun: a water-resistant bracelet.

The Smartsun device changes color according to the amount of exposure that the user receives from UV rays. The bracelet is originally yellow, but turns pink as the exposure increases, warning its users to put themselves in the shade. The sensitivity of this material to ultraviolet light makes it possible to warn of danger even before the skin is damaged.

How does it work?

The Smartsun bracelet monitor works by changing the color, a purely chemical process created by an acid-releasing agent that detects ultraviolet light and a contrast that responds to the pH levels in the indicator. The release agent is broken down by sunlight, which leads to a rapid change of color.

This portable monitor is now available in the UK through online pharmacies such as eChemist or PharmacyKwik , at an approximate price of one pound (sold in packs of seven) per wristband.

Prolonged exposure to the sun has the ability to increase the risk of skin cancer. The most virulent form of this type of cancer, malignant melanoma, is now five times more common than it was 4 decades ago, and annually affects 17 people per 100,000, according to statistics from Cancer Research UK.

The Smartsun bracelet is being sold, at the moment only in the United Kingdom, by the Swedish company Intellego Technologies. Claes Lindahl, the CEO of the company said at its launch that "during the last two years, the Smartsun bracelet has gone through many tests and comments from customers, in order to create a product with high functionality and ease of use. that we can help make summer more enjoyable for UK users of wristbands. "

Stuart Mackenzie, Director of Marketing Infrastructure at Strathclyde University, said they hope to bring this protective device, whose initial development was partly funded by an EU program, to the international market.