Fitbit Rash: What You Need to Know If You Have a Fitbit Band Rash (2024)

What You Should Know About Fitbit Skin Irritation

The Fitbit rash first made headlines back in 2014. There was a nationwide recall of the Force wearable fitness tracker due to some wearers developing a rash on their wrists. Today, many users continue to report rashes with the latest Fitbit line of fitness trackers and wearables. Most of these problems have been widely documented on forums, message boards, and social media. Here, we’ll uncover from a dermatologist point of view, what the Fitbit rash is all about.

What Exactly Causes Fitbit Skin Irritation?

We believe that the rash most people develop from wearing a Fitbit watch is likely a form of eczema, known as contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is a common skin condition that develops when your skin is in contact with an allergen or irritant.

Irritant Contact Dermatitis

This form of dermatitis is the most common and is a result of the skin being injured by chemicals, environmental factors, or friction. It occurs when an irritant damages the surface of the skin quicker than the skin can repair itself. Irritants actually remove moisture from the outer layer of skin, which allows them to go deeper into the skin and cause inflammation.

Irritants that are most likely to cause a reaction are:

  • Detergents
  • Adhesives
  • Plants
  • Bleach
  • Fertilizers and,
  • Rubbing alcohol

As this relates to the Fitbit, rashes may appear from soap becoming trapped between the wrist and watch strap. If this happens frequently, skin irritation is very likely to occur. Keep in mind that the area where the watch is worn is a place where perfume is sprayed, a lotion is put on, and more. Contact dermatitis can happen anytime there is constant friction, pressure, and sweat between the skin and another item.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

If your skin is in contact with a substance and has an immune reaction, such as a rash, then it’s likely allergic contact dermatitis. Some people are hypersensitive to certain materials, whereas others could be in contact with the same material and experience no issues. For people with an allergy, the body recognizes the substance as foreign material and releases cytokines. The cytokines activate the immune system and cause dermatitis 48-72 hours after being exposed to the allergen.

Common allergens include:

  • Personal care products
  • Formaldehyde
  • Plants – poison ivy
  • Ragweed pollen
  • Sunscreens
  • Antibiotic creams and
  • Nickel

The Fitbit rash may be an allergic response to allergens present in the materials of the watch itself. Some of those materials include leather dyes, metals, and rubber accelerators. Exposure to any of these materials can cause a rash to appear on your wrist if you’re more sensitive to the substance. However, nickel is the most likely culprit.

An Unknown Nickel Allergy

Nickel, which is a material found in several fitness trackers, could be the cause of some flare-ups. Many patients are not aware that they have a nickel allergy until they’ve had long-term and/or multiple exposures to the substance.

The best way to determine if nickel is the culprit is by undergoing a dimethylglyoxime test. If the dye turns pink then that means nickel is present in their skin. In addition, a patch test would need to be given to prove that a patient is actually allergic to nickel. If nickel is not present and the patient does not have an allergy to nickel, then we’d continue to rule out other possibilities.

Fitbit Rash: What You Need to Know If You Have a Fitbit Band Rash (1)

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What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Fitbit Rash?

If you have a Fitbit skin irritation, you’ll likely notice the following symptoms at the site:

  • Swelling
  • Burning
  • Bumps and/or blisters
  • A red rash and,
  • Scaly skin

We recommend that you book an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist if the rash doesn’t go away within a few weeks. However, you should visit a dermatologist as soon as possible if the rash appears suddenly and begins to spread to other areas. If you notice oozing blisters and also have a fever, then you could potentially have an infection. If such is the case, you’ll want to receive treatment right away.

What Fitbit Says You Should Do if You Get a Rash

If you develop a rash, Fitbit recommends removing the device from your wrist for several days to see if the rash disappears. However, if wearers decide to put the watch back on, the rash will likely return. For this reason, it would be best to treat the rash outright, rather than have it come and go with Fitbit usage.

How to Prevent And Heal a Fitbit Rash

There are several actions you can take to prevent or treat a Fitbit flareup. Please consider our recommendations below:

#1 Keep Your Fitbit Clean

The best solution is to clean your device regularly, especially the band. Bacteria and trapped sweat are common causes of rashes. Thoroughly cleaning and drying your Fitbit after sweating can keep your skin from developing an irritating rash.

#2 Loosen and Remove Your Fitbit Often

We recommend that you wear the tracker as loosely as possible. It should be able to move back and forth comfortably on your wrist. In addition, consider removing your band for twenty minutes each day. You can also switch your tracker from one wrist to another every so often.

#3 Strengthen Your Moisture Barrier

One of the most important steps you can take in both preventing and treating a Fitbit rash is protecting your skin’s moisture barrier. The stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the epidermis, is supposed to keep moisture in and keep bad bacteria out. Look for moisturizers that include lipids, glycerine, and ceramides. These skin-replenishing ingredients are vital to maintaining skin barrier integrity.

#4 Relieve Itching

Hydrocortisone cream is a popular over-the-counter product for reducing itching and inflammation. Scratching your skin damages the skin barrier and makes you more susceptible to infections. If you’re wearing a Fitbit and debris gets underneath, in addition to scratching, this can increase skin inflammation.

Calamine lotion is another popular medication used to relieve itching and minor skin irritations. Consider putting this on before putting on your fitness watch.

#5 Use a Skin Diary to Track Symptoms

The best way to determine the exact cause of your flare-ups is to document. Write down your symptoms, the products you use on the irritated area, and if your skin improves or worsens with adjustments. Pay attention and note if your rash includes a burning sensation or if it’s just extremely itchy. The latter is likely an allergy and the former an irritant.

Bring your skin diary with you to your consultation, so together, we can properly diagnose and provide the right treatment for your Fitbit rash.

#5 Visit a Dermatologist

The only way to receive a definitive diagnosis regarding the cause of your Fitbit rash is to speak with a dermatologist. If we believe that your skin irritation is due to an allergy, we’ll perform a patch test. A fungal scraping could also be done to ensure it’s not a fungal infection.

Irritant contact dermatitis is relatively easy to diagnose and usually doesn’t require any testing. We find that most rashes heal once the irritant is removed and proper treatment is applied.

Possible Treatments for a Fitbit Skin Irritation

Fitbit Rash: What You Need to Know If You Have a Fitbit Band Rash (2)

Both allergic and irritant contact dermatitis are typically treated with emollient creams and steroids. Emollient creams will relieve you of dry skin and are most effective when applied immediately after bathing. A potent topical steroid may be prescribed if other over-the-counter options have not completely cleared the rash.

Additional treatment options may include:

  • Antibiotics (to treat an infection)
  • Oral steroids (usually for more severe cases)
  • Phototherapy

If you have contracted a skin rash and are an avid Fitbit user in Los Angeles, connect with us here at BHSkin Dermatology. Our team of board-certified dermatologists will closely monitor any skin wounds caused by the wearable device and help you find a solution.

Book a Consultation in Glendale or Encino

If you still have questions about the Fitbit rash, simply book an appointment with a dermatologist at BHSkin Dermatology. Our top priority is to help patients find the right treatment option so they can feel and look good in the skin they’re in.

Call at 310.205.3555 or 818.914.7546. You may also email us or click on the chat box below. Look and feel your best, the decision is in your hands!

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Fitbit Rash: What You Need to Know If You Have a Fitbit Band Rash (2024)

FAQs

Fitbit Rash: What You Need to Know If You Have a Fitbit Band Rash? ›

A Fitbit spokesperson said the rashes “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,” Re/code reports.

Why is my Fitbit band giving me a rash? ›

A Fitbit spokesperson said the rashes “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,” Re/code reports.

How do I stop the rash under my Fitbit? ›

To reduce irritation, follow four simple wear and care tips: (1) keep it clean; (2) keep it dry; (3) don't wear it too tight, and (4) give your wrist a rest by removing the band for an hour after extended wear. For more information visit www.fitbit.com/product-care.

How do you get rid of a watch band rash? ›

With a watch rash, refrain from scratching or itching any affected areas. Scratching and itching can cause added stress to the rash and increase chances of infection. Use creams such as hydrocortisone which helps to reduce itching and irritation.

Why am I getting a rash under my watch band? ›

Contact dermatitis on the wrist

Contact dermatitis can appear as an itchy rash. Here, the rash is likely due to a watchband or to soap residue trapped beneath the band. Contact dermatitis is an itchy rash caused by direct contact with a substance or an allergic reaction to it.

How long does a band aid rash last? ›

The reaction most often occurs 24 to 48 hours after the exposure. The rash may persist for weeks after the exposure stops.

How do you treat a skin reaction to band aid? ›

Treating an allergy to adhesives on bandages
  1. Use an anti-itch cream or lotion, such as calamine lotion or a cream with at least 1 percent hydrocortisone. ...
  2. Take an antihistamine, such as Benadryl, to reduce itching. ...
  3. Keep the area moisturized.
  4. Avoid scratching the rash. ...
  5. Use a cool compress on the area.
May 21, 2020

What cream is good for watch rash? ›

If you're looking for rash relief, she suggests applying a small amount of over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone, calamine lotion, or antihistamine cream, all of which can calm uncomfortable itchiness.

What is the best material for a Fitbit band if you get rashes? ›

If you experience skin irritation while wearing your Fitbit (or any other watch), an allergic reaction to trace amounts of nickel used in the buckle or clasp may be the cause. Consider looking for nickel-free bands, or, if your nickel sensitivity is mild, consider a surgical-steel band, which has low nickel content.

Why am I suddenly allergic to my watch? ›

As with eye-glass frames or accessories, skin irritation may result from metal ions from the metal parts of a watch being extracted by perspiration. This kind of reaction is categorized as allergic skin dermatitis, which is caused by metals such as nickel, cobalt or chrome.

Why is my silicone watch band irritating my skin? ›

Silicone "is going to trap more moisture," according to Dr. Lamb, and Dr. Sadeghpour adds that bands made of cotton and silk "allow sweat to escape naturally from your skin." Fabric bands with holes offer even more breathability, and clasp-less ones help avoid contact with metals used in fascinators.

How do you get rid of a rash overnight? ›

One of the fastest and easiest ways to stop the pain and itch of a rash is to apply cold. Whether you choose a cold compress, cool showers, or damp cloth, cold water can bring immediate relief and can help stop swelling, ease itching, and slow the progression of a rash.

How can you tell if a rash is serious? ›

If you have a rash and notice any of the following symptoms, see a board-certified dermatologist or go to the emergency room immediately:
  1. The rash is all over your body. ...
  2. You have a fever with the rash. ...
  3. The rash is sudden and spreads rapidly. ...
  4. The rash begins to blister. ...
  5. The rash is painful. ...
  6. The rash is infected.

How do you tell if a rash is an allergic reaction? ›

A rash that consists of hives indicates an allergic reaction, Dr. Ungar says. More specifically, it points to a food allergy and it often appears with intense itching. In some cases swelling might also be present.

What can I use instead of a band aid? ›

If you have no fabric, paper towels make an excellent alternative to bandages. You will need something clean to place directly onto the wound, but after that, you can use this paper and tape method to secure the protective covering in place. Find some kind of sticky tape.

What does a silicone allergy look like? ›

Red rash. Swelling. Itchy or irritated skin. Swelling in the hands, legs, or other body parts.

What are the 5 types of rashes? ›

Rash 101: The 5 Most Common Types of Skin Rashes
  • Contact Dermatitis.
  • Shingles.
  • Swimmers Itch.
  • Pityriasis Rosea.

What does a band aid allergy look like? ›

Symptoms of an adhesive allergy may include blisters, itchy skin, flaking skin, and a rash. While a mild reaction may only appear where the adhesive was applied, a more severe reaction is also possible. If you think you have an adhesive allergy, it's best to reach out to your doctor to confirm your diagnosis.

How long does it take for a skin reaction to go away? ›

A skin reaction from allergic contact dermatitis will go away, but usually takes from 14 to 28 days. If you come in contact with something that can cause allergic contact dermatitis (like poison ivy), scrub the skin with soap and water right after.

What can I drink to stop itching? ›

Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple Cider Vinegar's anti-septic properties can help soothe itchy skin especially for people who suffer from psoriasis. It also works wonders as a spot treatment on bug bites.

Can you put Neosporin on a rash? ›

This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (such as insect bites, poison oak/ivy, eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rash, itching of the outer female genitals, anal itching).

Does Vaseline stop a rash? ›

Sometimes petroleum jelly (Vaseline) can help relieve the discomfort caused by a rash. A moisturizing lotion, such as Cetaphil, also may help. Calamine lotion may help for rashes caused by contact with something (such as a plant or soap) that irritated the skin.

Does hydrocortisone help with rash? ›

Hydrocortisone cream is a medicated lotion, ointment or solution that treats eczema and other skin conditions that cause swelling, redness, itching and rashes. It's a type of topical steroid that works by decreasing inflammation in your skin.

Should I wear my Fitbit tight or loose? ›

Wear the band loosely enough that it can move back and forth on your wrist. During exercise, try moving the band higher on your wrist (2-3 finger widths above your wrist bone) to get a better fit so it's secure, but not too tight. Our heart rate sensors work best when they maintain contact with your skin.

Is there latex in Fitbit bands? ›

Fitbit wristbands are made of an elastomer material similar to many sports watches and do not contain latex. The Fitbit Force clasps and casing are made with a surgical-grade stainless steel, which is commonly used in watches, jewelry and other products in contact with the skin."

Do all Fitbits contain nickel? ›

Currently Fitbit devices do contain small traces of nickel. The following is stated in the manual: "The housing on Inspire HR is plastic. The Inspire HR classic wristband is made of a premium, comfortable silicone similar to that used in many sport watches, and the buckle is made of anodized aluminum.

Why do I have a red rash on my wrist? ›

Rashes on the wrist can occur as a result of infection, genetic factors, or contact with something that causes irritation or an allergic reaction. Rashes can develop on almost any part of the body. People can often determine the cause of a rash by looking at its specific symptoms.

How long should you watch for an allergic reaction? ›

Most severe allergic reactions occur within seconds or minutes after exposure to the allergen. Some reactions can occur after several hours, particularly if the allergen causes a reaction after it has been eaten. In very rare cases, reactions develop after 24 hours.

How do you prevent silicone rash? ›

Other Causes of Silicone Ring Skin Irritation

The best way to avoid this is simply to remove the ring before any activity where water will be used, no matter how briefly. Failing to keep the ring clean: Rings can get dirty, and it's important to keep them clean.

How do you get rid of contact dermatitis fast? ›

To help reduce itching and soothe inflamed skin, try these self-care approaches:
  1. Avoid the irritant or allergen. ...
  2. Apply an anti-itch cream or ointment. ...
  3. Take an anti-itch drug. ...
  4. Apply cool, wet compresses. ...
  5. Protect your skin. ...
  6. Soak in a soothing cool bath. ...
  7. Protect your hands.
Oct 8, 2022

What is the best watch band for dermatitis? ›

The 4 best are:
  • nylon/canvas -> may smell after a while but good quality bands are washable.
  • leather -> fancier than nylon but not washable.
  • titanium -> know for its hypoallergenic properties.
Feb 3, 2022

Will Benadryl help a rash go away? ›

Usually you can treat the rash's itchy symptoms and swellings with over-the-counter antihistamine medications such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec),” Dr. Gilliam says.

What dries up a rash fast? ›

The Best Home Remedies for Rashes
  1. Cold compress.
  2. Oatmeal bath.
  3. Apple cider vinegar.
  4. Coconut oil.
  5. Aloe vera.
  6. Hydrocortisone cream.
  7. Epsom salts.
  8. Baking soda.
Feb 4, 2022

Will my rash go away on its own? ›

Most rashes are temporary and clear up on their own. However, a rash can be a sign of something more serious. Allergic reactions, infections, autoimmune conditions, and more can also cause rashes that need to be seen by a medical professional.

How long should a rash last before seeing a doctor? ›

If your symptoms do not resolve after two to four weeks, if the rash is on your face or genitals, or if the rash is especially painful or widespread, it's time to see the doctor.

What does a cancerous rash look like? ›

What does a cancerous rash look like? Cancerous rashes, marks, and moles can vary in their appearance. If you notice a red, scaly patch on your skin that itches, cracks, or bleeds — and doesn't seem to be healing — there is a chance it could be cancerous.

Should I ignore my rash? ›

This is your skin's way of telling you that something has irritated it, or it's allergic to something. Rashes can pop up anywhere on your body as a reaction to stress, the weather, an external substance, medicine, or food. Rashes can also be a symptom of certain health conditions, so it's best not to ignore them.

How can I identify this rash? ›

What Are Symptoms of Skin Rash?
  1. Itching.
  2. Skin redness.
  3. Flaking skin.
  4. Dry, scaly, or crusted skin that can become thick and leathery from scratching.
  5. Small, fluid-filled blisters that may ooze when scratched.
  6. Infection of the areas of broken skin.

What are the 4 signs of a severe allergic reaction? ›

Skin rashes, itching or hives. Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat. Shortness of breath, trouble breathing or wheezing (whistling sound during breathing) Dizziness and/or fainting.

What does anxiety rash look like? ›

What do stress rashes look like? Stress rashes often appear as raised red bumps called hives. They can affect any part of the body, but often a stress rash is on the face, neck, chest or arms. Hives may range from tiny dots to large welts and may form in clusters.

Why does my silicone watch band rash? ›

Also, silicone bands can trap with skin oils, moisture, dirt, sweat, bacteria and other “nasties”, that can result in varying degrees of skin irritation/inflammation. It may help not to wear a watch with a silicone band when it is not necessary.

Can a silicone watch band cause a rash? ›

Although silicone is made of natural materials and an allergy to silicone is very rare, some people might still have a chance to get a rash when they are wearing silicone products. If the silicone watch band is not medical grade or is of poor quality, an allergy will be caused to the users possibly.

Do Fitbit bands have latex in them? ›

Fitbit wristbands are made of an elastomer material similar to many sports watches and do not contain latex. The Fitbit Force clasps and casing are made with a surgical-grade stainless steel, which is commonly used in watches, jewelry and other products in contact with the skin."

What should I clean my Fitbit band with? ›

Keep It Clean and Dry

Instead, only use fresh water and a soap-free cleanser (like Cetaphil) to clean the band. Furthermore, to minimize the potential for damage to your product and the chance for skin irritation, avoid any direct contact with sunscreen or insect repellent sprays.

What is the best watch band material for skin? ›

Nylon: Sporty and comfortable

NATO watch straps are a great solution, as they're light, dependable and even stop your watch case from making contact with your skin.

What does an allergic reaction to silicone tape look like? ›

Symptoms of an adhesive allergy may include blisters, itchy skin, flaking skin, and a rash. While a mild reaction may only appear where the adhesive was applied, a more severe reaction is also possible. If you think you have an adhesive allergy, it's best to reach out to your doctor to confirm your diagnosis.

What are symptoms of silicone allergy? ›

Severe Signs of a Silicone Allergy

Typically, nausea happens in conjunction with other parts of an allergy. It's hardly ever a solitary reaction. Throat swelling and difficulty breathing: If your throat starts to swell and you find it difficult to breathe, then you're definitely having an allergic reaction.

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