Fitbit’s New Activity-Tracking Wristbands are Causing Skin Irritations

Fitbit’s latest wearables i.e. the Charge, the Charge HR and the Surge, have started causing skin irritations for a number of users and as an immediate response, the company has issued an official statement advising affected wearers to take a break. However, taking a break from wearing the wearable can be problematic, because Fitbits are meant to be worn, in order to track your steps, sleep and other metrics.

Here’s the official statement issued by a Fitbit spokeswoman to Re/code:

“We continue to be aware of a very limited percentage of users reporting skin irritation among our users. According to our consulting dermatologists, they are likely from wearing the band too tight; sweat, water, or soap being held against the skin under the device; or from pressure or friction against the skin.” The irritation “should resolve quickly when users take a break from the device, usually within hours or days.”

The spokeswoman also pointed out that skin reactions are not uncommon with jewelry or other wearable devices that are pressed against the skin for long periods of time.

Last year, Fitbit founder and CEO James Park had specifically highlighted that “no adhesive in any part of the new devices come into close contact with the skin”. But unfortunately for the company, things are not looking so well and we may soon see a product recall if the situation gets worse.

Are you experiencing a similar issue with your Fitbit wearable?