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UV-Sensitive Indicator: ExpressInk

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Allison Chen, Carrie Wang, Diya Jayachandran

Despite the ineffectiveness of sunscreen after prolonged UV exposure, few people reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Since the use of sunscreen reduces the risk of melanoma by 50%, there is a potential to develop a visual reminder for users to reapply sunscreen.
This user need led to the design of ExpressInk - a novel, color-changing pen-like applicator for use on the skin underneath sunscreen as a visual indicator that serves as a reminder for sunscreen reapplication. ExpressInk adopts an ink-like consistency by combining propylene glycol, aloe vera gel, and rose water, along with photochromic pigment, inside a marker pen tube.
After application on the skin, ExpressInk remains dormant as long as the sunscreen layer is actively reflecting UV rays. As the user is progressively exposed to sunlight, UV rays will penetrate the sunscreen barrier and cause the underlying photochromic pigments to change color. This visually confirms the sunscreen’s limited effectiveness and reminds users to reapply sun protection.
With ExpressInk, there are opportunities for individual expression and cultural representation. Using the pen-like applicator, users have freedom to draw designs on their skin that speak to their identity - ranging from ethnic traditions such as Inuit tattoos to contemporary urban street patterns. Each design is unique to the individual, and the beauty of light-sensitive color changes will only be revealed upon UV exposure, reminding users to reapply sunscreen.

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