Since its launch in October 2013, Fitbit Inc. has received about 10,000 complaints from consumers/users that developed a rash and/or type of skin irritation from using the Fitbit Force. In February of 2014, Fitbit announced a refund program for anyone who purchased their Fitbit Force product. Shortly thereafter, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (“CPSC”) issued a recall of nearly 1 million units sold in the United States.
The Fitbit rashes are also known as contact dermatitis and range in severity. No one knows what causes the rashes. In a statement released by Fitbit, they stated that the skin irritation may be a result from an allergy to nickel; however, none of the consumers have reported such an allergy. According to the CPSC, users of the Fitbit Force can develop rashes/skin irritation from the stainless steel casings, materials used in the strap, or adhesives used to assemble the product.
Fitapelli & Schaffer, LLP is currently investigating a potential class action on behalf of consumers who purchased the Fitbit Force device and who experienced skin irritation. If you purchased the Fitbit Force and developed any type of skin irritation from wearing the device, please contact the lawyers at Fitapelli & Schaffer, (212) 300-0375, to schedule a free consultation – you may be entitled to receive compensation for your injury, medical expenses, and more.