A newly developed phone case serves as a unique reminder to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
Researcher Marc Teyssier, collaborating with Virgin Media O2, designed this innovative skin case. The inspiration came from observing a significant disconnect between how often people reapply sunscreen and the frequency with which they check their phones during peak UV index times.
The idea is simple: when your phone case begins to “burn,” it nudges you to apply sunscreen.
Teyssier noted, “My work often connects our digital lives with physical health. Skincerth illustrates how we can use technology to raise health awareness and encourage positive behavior changes.”
He claims the case is both synthetic and rather lifelike.
Using a blend of creative silicon and UV-reactive materials, he aimed to recreate familiar sensations. Teyssier applied 3D printing and hand-carving to mimic the textures of real skin.
“Mobile technology is integral to our daily lives. In light of recent research, especially regarding vacations, we wanted to illustrate just how severe the effects of sunburn can be,” Teyssier explained.
The skin cases come in three distinct tones, each one reacting to UV rays by changing color, similar to actual skin.
With a background in synthetic skin, Teyssier had previously created an artificial skin that responds to mobile devices. In 2019, when launching his high-tech creation, he expressed his desire to introduce a mobile accessory that conveys human touch and comfort.
As the summer heat intensifies across the U.S., and heat waves impact parts of Europe and Asia, such reminders about harmful UV levels may be welcomed by sun seekers, despite their unsettling nature.
While there’s interest in this peculiar innovation, the Skin Curse is currently just a prototype and has not yet been released for sale.
