London, United Kingdom (Enmaeya News) — In an effort to promote sun safety in a dramatic and unconventional way, a new phone case is grabbing attention for looking and feeling like real human skin, and even getting sunburned like it.

Called the "Skincase," the accessory is designed to mimic the look, feel, and even the sensitivity of real skin. When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays, the material reddens, much like human skin would after too much sun exposure.

Though its appearance may strike some as disturbing, its purpose is rooted in public health awareness. Created by French researcher Marc Teyssier in collaboration with the British Skin Foundation and telecom company O2, the Skincase serves as a visual and touchable prompt to encourage sunscreen use and raise awareness about the dangers of prolonged UV exposure.

"Our phones are objects we don't expect to change and to react in a humane way," Teyssier said in a statement. "By creating a tangible, visceral reaction to UV exposure, the Skincase not only raises awareness of Sun safety but highlights how Sun protection is an undeniable priority."

While unconventional, the project comes at a time of increasing concern over global heatwaves and rising skin cancer rates. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Dermatologists continue to emphasize the importance of regular sunscreen use, which can significantly lower the risk of skin damage and disease.

Yet awareness remains low. A 2020 National Health Interview Survey revealed that only 12.3% of adult men and 29% of adult women reported applying sunscreen when outdoors for at least an hour on sunny days. A more recent survey by the American Academy of Dermatology found that 27% of respondents applied sunscreen only when someone else reminded them to — a figure that jumped to 37% among Gen Z.

In a concerning statistic, research from the Orlando Health Cancer Institute found that 14% of Americans under 25 believed using sunscreen daily is more harmful than direct sun exposure. The Skincase may help counter such myths and poor habits by turning smartphones — a near-constant companion for many — into a tool for sun safety.

This isn't Teyssier’s first foray into skin-like tech. In 2019, he developed an earlier iteration of a synthetic skin phone case that responded to touch, including pinching and stroking. With the Skincase, he continues to push boundaries in human-device interaction and perhaps spark healthier habits along the way.