This new UV detection smart pendant aims to protect you from sun damage

If you have trouble remembering to reapply sunscreen or are worried about sun damage, a new piece of smart jewelry could be the answer. On Thursday, The90, a wearable company for skin health prevention, launched The90 Gem, a pendant necklace with a sensor that reads UVA and UVB exposure in real time.

UV rays can contribute to long-term skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. Ultraviolet rays can cause sunburn, but both types of UV rays can damage the skin over time.

The90 was founded by Stacy Salvi, who previously led the acquisition of Fitbit by Google and is an expert on wearables in the health tech space. Salvi wanted to help women have more control over their sun exposure data, which is one of the key factors in maintaining healthy skin free from sun damage.

A spokesperson for The90 told CNET that the necklace was designed with women in mind because the company’s research found that this demographic tends to already be knowledgeable about sun protection. “We found that women are most knowledgeable about the benefits and risks of UV exposure and most interested in finding ways to mitigate those risks,” they said. However, The90 plans to expand its product line in the future to serve men and children as well.

“The90 transforms sunscreen from a one-time morning ritual into an adaptive, responsive system built on actual UV load,” Salvi said in a press release.

The pendant collects UVA and UVB data, learns your skin type, your sunscreen use and whether you wear protective clothing. The idea is to help women become more aware and receive actionable reminders about their sun exposure, timing of sunscreen use, and healthy skin aging.

“Women are already investing in SPF, treatments, tools and routines to protect their skin, but when it comes to sun exposure, most of us are still at a loss,” said entrepreneur Lauren Posstick, a The90 investor, podcast host and founder of The Skinny Confidential, in the press release.

The90 Gem syncs with the The90 app on your phone and sets up a profile tailored to your skin type. It will determine your skin type, daily sunscreen use, and other sun protection habits.

Besides UVA and UVB detection, The90 will send you reminders to reapply sunscreen, personalized guidance on limiting UV exposure and other features based on real-time readings and your needs.

The90 Gem is available now for $299, but there’s an exclusive deal for $199 for The Skinny Confidential community.