A new prototype phone skin developed by researcher Marc Teyssier in collaboration with Virgin Media O2 offers a vivid reminder of the dangers of sun exposure. The Skincase, designed to look and feel like human skin, visibly reacts to ultraviolet (UV) rays by changing color—mimicking the effects of sunburn in real time.
The innovation stems from research showing a disconnect between how often people check their phones during peak UV hours and how rarely they reapply sunscreen. The phone skin is designed to bridge that gap, serving as a visual cue for users to take sun safety more seriously.
“My work often seeks to bridge the gap between our digital lives and our physical well-being. The Skincase is a prime example of how technology can be harnessed to promote health awareness and encourage positive behavioural change,” Teyssier stated in a press release.
Constructed using silicone and UV-sensitive materials, the phone skin incorporates flexible filaments and 3D-printed textures to replicate the pliability and feel of human skin. Each version is available in three different skin tones and reacts uniquely under UV light.
Chris Hindennach, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Media O2, added, “With mobiles being such an essential part of everyday life, especially on holiday according to our new research, we’ve created the Skincase to demonstrate in real time just how severe the effects of sunburn can be while also promoting sun safety among holidaymakers.”
Teyssier is known for exploring synthetic skin technologies. In 2019, he introduced a mobile accessory that could sense and respond to human touch. The Skincase is a continuation of that work, aiming to blend interactive technology with public health messaging.
While the Skincase has attracted attention for its lifelike appearance and unique functionality, it remains a prototype and is not currently available for purchase.
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