Some Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 owners are experiencing burning sensations and skin redness beneath their watches, raising questions about the redesigned sensors introduced with Apple’s latest models.
The skin irritation complaints have surfaced since the watches launched in September, with some affected owners reporting discomfort directly beneath the sensor area on the back of the case.
Could the redesigned sensors be responsible?
The Series 12 and Ultra 4 introduced several changes to Apple’s Health Sensing System, including a larger ECG electrode surface, ring-shaped photodiodes, and bigger green LEDs.
Both watches also measure heart rate every five seconds, more frequently than previous generations.
Those changes have prompted questions about whether the new sensor arrangement could be contributing to the irritation. So far, there’s no confirmed connection, and similar skin reactions have occurred with earlier Apple Watch models.
The reports also don’t establish how widespread the problem is. Some affected owners have found relief after cleaning their watches or adjusting how they wear them, while others have returned their devices.
What to do if your Apple Watch irritates your skin
Apple’s wearing guidelines identify several potential causes of skin irritation, including bands that fit too tightly or loosely and moisture trapped beneath the watch.
Sweat, soap, sunscreen, and lotion can also irritate the skin, particularly when they remain in contact with the underside of the case for extended periods.
Apple recommends keeping the watch, band, and skin clean and dry, especially after workouts. The band should fit snugly enough for the sensors to work without putting excessive pressure on the wrist.
If you experience redness, swelling, itching, or other irritation, Apple advises removing the watch and consulting a physician before wearing it again.
Apple has yet to identify a specific problem with the Series 12 or Ultra 4 sensors.
