Called My Skin Track UV, the world’s first battery-free wearable electronic that is able to measure both UVA and UVB rays has been developed by L’Oreal’s skincare brand La Roche-Posay.
“Our research has long indicated the need for better consumer understanding of personal UV exposure,” said Guive Balooch, Global Vice President and Head of L’Oréal’s Technology Incubator, in a statement. “We created this battery-free sensor to seamlessly integrate into the lives, and daily routines, of those using it. We hope the launch of this problem-solving technology makes it easier for people to make smart, sun-safe choices.”
Designed in by Swiss designer Yves Behar and developed in collaboration with North Western University engineering professor John Rogers, the waterproof sensor that measures 12 by 6 mm is activated by solar energy and powered by near-field communication (NFC).
Capable of automatically collecting three months worth of UVA and UVB ray exposure data, users will be able to transfer the data to an app by simply holding the NFC-enabled sensor in close proximity to a smartphone.
Typically found in contactless payment systems such as subway passes and credit cards, NFC is a form of wireless communication that can induce electric currents within a passive component as well as transmit and receive data using radio waves.
The app is also integrated with Apple’s HealthKit to provide metrics such as humidity, air quality, and pollen count.
“La Roche-Posay believes that better looking skin starts with healthy habits,” said Laetitia Toupet, Global General Manager of La Roche-Posay. “The research that went into the development of this technology indicated that wearables have the power to inspire true behavioural change by helping people measure and understand their exposure to various environmental aggressors and take action.”
To learn more about My Skin Track UV, click the link below.
