Google Pixel Watch 2 causing skin irritation for some users

Some users of the Google Pixel Watch 2 seem to be encountering skin irritation as a result of wearing the latest smartwatch. Allergic reactions to the materials used in the production of the watch and its bands have manifested as rashes and unsightly red welts on the wrists of affected users. If this sounds awfully familiar, it’s because we also reported a similar issue with the original Pixel Watch.

Several threads have popped up on Reddit and Pixel Watch community forum, including one with over 50 ‘I have the same question’ votes, where users have expressed concerns over the Pixel Watch 2 causing irritation or even burning sensations on their wrists. Users who have been affected by this issue develop rashes or burns in areas where they regularly wear their watches, making prolonged use highly uncomfortable. Some Pixel Watch 2 owners think the skin irritation and rashes are caused by the wrist bands, but others say the burning sensation is directly beneath the watch.

One Pixel Watch 2 user describes the feeling as “pins and needles” and that “it is causing pressure on the veins/nerves and making my hand feeling numb,” which is quite scary. They partly blame the added pressure when tucking the strap, although this is just one of several theories that have sprung up in various forums. Another theory is that the burns might be bacterial infections resulting from prolonged, uninterrupted wear of the watch. According to this theory, not allowing the skin to dry by wearing the watch for extended periods could be a contributing factor to the development of burns or rashes.

But according to others, the irritation happens beneath the watch, which makes them think it’s the sensors and not the wrist band that is responsible for the rashes.

There are multiple photos I’ve seen from people affected by skin rashes after wearing the Pixel Watch 2 for a few days or weeks. All of them have pretty visible irritations but in different positions to justify the several theories so far. For instance, below are images from those who feel Pixel Watch 2 sensors cause the skin irritation. Click or tap on each one for a better view.

Below are some more images, but this time from those who feel the rashes are caused by stock Pixel Watch 2 wrist bands.

It’s worth noting that there is no official confirmation on the exact cause of this issue at present. The only official information I could find is through a Pixel Watch help page. According to Google, “To avoid product damage and the chance of skin irritation, remove your watch while applying sunscreen, repellent sprays, or other types of creams or sprays like these.”

Google further notes that the Pixel Watch design, including its metal bands, adheres to strict specifications and undergoes comprehensive testing to minimize the risk of skin reactions. However, it’s important for customers with skin sensitivities to be aware that the following materials may be present.

Nickel:
• The amount of potential nickel falls below the strict nickel restrictions set by the European REACH regulation.
• While nickel exposure is unlikely to cause a reaction, be aware of the possibility in case you’re susceptible to nickel-related reactions.
Acrylates:
• Potential trace amounts of acrylates and methacrylates from adhesives or coatings.
• While these are found in many consumer products that come in contact with the skin, some people may be sensitive to them.

Some people have managed to get rid of their skin irritation problems by replacing the stock band with a 3rd-party brand, so you may try this if yours is a wrist band problem. For those who feel the skin irritation is caused by Pixel Watch 2 sensors, we’ll have to wait for word from Google. I can’t tell you when, but we’ll let you know when Google responds.

Featured image: Google