Fitness trackers like FitBit may trigger allergic reactions to nickel, according to FOX News.
The company involved in manufacturing FitBit has already issued an apology and is offering refunds and replacements to some users of its popular fitness tracker who have developed rashes on their wrists. The FitBit Force which costs $130 is a type of wristband that tracks user's daily activity including calories burned and steps taken. The company suspects that the rashers are a result of the nickel used in some parts of the tracker that may cause skin irritations to some of their users.
"We are looking into reports from a very limited number of FitBit Force users who have been experiencing skin irritation, possibly as a result of an allergy to nickel, an element of surgical-grade stainless steel used in the device," a spokesperson of FitBit said on a statement. One user of the product claimed that he developed an irritation near the spot where the band's battery and charging port sits on the wrist. He was reportedly diagnosed with contact dermatitis and then developed an infection after a blister formed.
Since the story broke out this week, other users have come out and shared their experiences. One man said that he recently noticed an itchy rash and a burning sensation after wearing the band since Christmas. Still, another user sent pictures of the bumpy, blistery and scaly spot he developed after wearing the fitness tracker. Officials from FitBit advised people experiencing skin irritations to stop wearing their product, and to contact the company regarding refunds and replacements.
"We are sorry that even a few consumers have experienced these problems and assure you that we are looking at ways to modify the product so that anyone can wear the FitBit Force comfortably. We will continue to update our customers with the latest information."
