Some Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 owners have experienced unexpected skin irritation with the new models, according to reports on the MacRumors forums and Reddit.
Affected users complain of a burning sensation and redness under the sensor area. The Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 measure heart rate every five seconds, and some people wonder if that’s the cause of the skin irritation.
In addition to more frequent heart rate readings, the Series 12 and Ultra 4 feature a larger ECG electrode surface area, photodiodes arranged in a ring shape, and larger green LEDs. It’s unclear if any of these design changes constitute a problem, but wrist irritation caused by the Apple Watch is a complaint that dates back to the original model.
Apple says reactions can be caused by wearing a band that’s too tight or too loose, or by irritants like soap and sweat under the watch. Some Apple Watch models contain nickel, but this amount is slightly below EU limits, and Apple says this likely won’t be a problem. The Apple Watch case and some Apple Watch bands contain traces of acrylates and methacrylates from adhesives, but Apple says it designs the Watch and bands to keep these components away from the skin.
Apple recommends making sure a band fits properly and keeping Apple Watch, bands, and skin clean and dry. Apple adds that cleaning may be necessary after a workout or exposure to liquids like sweat, soap, sunscreen, and lotion.
Some users have seen the problem disappear after an adjustment period while wearing the watch, and cleaning the back of the watch and strap has also helped in some cases. Other users have returned their devices. Apple advises users experiencing redness, swelling, itching, or other irritation to seek medical attention before putting the watch back on.
Gn tech
