Fitbit computers and video games
423 reports to CPSC, the latest made Apr 26, 2017. A report isn’t a recall.
Watch and the shortlist are kept with a free account, on every device. Your watch list. CPSC’s own search is on saferproducts.gov.
At a glance
From SaferProducts.gov, released Oct 25, 2026.
- 423reports to CPSC
- Apr 26, 2017the latest report was made
- Jan 10, 2014the earliest
- 420with the company’s comments
- Brand
- Fitbit
- Makers
- Fitbit, Inc and FLEXTRONICS INTERNATIONAL USA INCMakers, importers or sellers, as the reports name them
- Product
- Computers and video gamesComputers, their equipment and electronic gamesCPSC’s product type: Computers (Equipment and Electronic Games) (code 557), in Electronics: Computers, Monitors, Projectors
Other ways the reports write the brand (55)
“Fitbit Force”, “FitBit Force”, “Fitbit Charge HR”, “Fitbit Surge”, “Fit Bit”, “Fitbit Flex”, “Fitbit force”, “Fit Bit Force”, “FitBit Charge HR”, “FitBit Surge”, “Fitbit Charge”, “Fitbit charge HR”, “Fitbit charge hr”, “Fit Bit Charge HR”, “Fit bit”, “FitBit HR”, “Fitbit HR”, “fitbit force”, “FIT BIT One”, “FIT BIT Surge watch”, “FITBIT Charge HR”, “FITBIT FORCE”, “FITBIT FORCE BAND”, “FITBIT Flex”, “FIt Bit”, “FibBit”, “Firbit charge hr”, “Fit Bit - Charge Personal fitness watch”, “Fit Bit Flex”, “Fit Bit charge”, “Fit bit charge”, “Fit bit charge HR”, “FitBit Charge”, “FitBit FORCE”, “FitBit Flex”, “FitBit HR Charge”, “Fitbit Alta”, “Fitbit Aria Scale”, “Fitbit Charger”, “Fitbit FB401BK”, “Fitbit FORCE”, “Fitbit Force Activity-Tracking Wristband”, “Fitbit Inc.”, “Fitbit One”, “Fitbit changer”, “Fitbit charge”, “Fitbit flex”, “Fitbit surge”, “HR Fitbit”, “fit bit Force”, “fitbit Force”, “fitbit charge HR”, “fitbit charge hr”, “fitbit flex” and “fitbit surge”
By month
The numbers, as a table
| Month | Reports |
|---|---|
| April 2017 | 1 |
| March 2017 | 1 |
| February 2017 | 1 |
| January 2017 | 1 |
| December 2016 | 3 |
| November 2016 | 4 |
| October 2016 | 1 |
| September 2016 | 6 |
| August 2016 | 1 |
| July 2016 | 5 |
| June 2016 | 5 |
| May 2016 | 6 |
| April 2016 | 7 |
| March 2016 | 8 |
| February 2016 | 8 |
| January 2016 | 31 |
| December 2015 | 11 |
| November 2015 | 4 |
| October 2015 | 11 |
| September 2015 | 32 |
| August 2015 | 8 |
| July 2015 | 8 |
| June 2015 | 27 |
| May 2015 | 7 |
| April 2015 | 10 |
| March 2015 | 9 |
| February 2015 | 8 |
| January 2015 | 7 |
| December 2014 | 4 |
| November 2014 | 3 |
| September 2014 | 2 |
| June 2014 | 4 |
| May 2014 | 8 |
| April 2014 | 20 |
| March 2014 | 81 |
| February 2014 | 48 |
| January 2014 | 22 |
How badly anyone was hurt
- Hospital admission 1 CPSC: Injury, Hospital Admission
- Emergency room 5 CPSC: Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received
- Seen by a doctor or nurse 82 CPSC: Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
- First aid 124 CPSC: Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
- Hurt, no treatment 175 CPSC: Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
- Hurt, care not known 30 CPSC: Injury, Level of care not known
- No one hurt 5 CPSC: Incident, No Injury
- Not said 1 CPSC: Unspecified
As each report says it, in short words; CPSC’s own words are under each.
The reports, as CPSC published them
Reports people made to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. CPSC publishes each one after sending it to the company named, and doesn’t guarantee they’re accurate. A report isn’t a recall.
Each report is the words of the person who made it, as CPSC published them. The company’s comments, where CPSC published any, are set apart as the company’s own.
CPSC, SaferProducts.gov public database export. Released Oct 25, 2026. Updated daily.
-
First aid Made Feb 1, 2014, sent to the company Feb 10, 2014, published by CPSC Mar 6, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitbit Force, black, small
I began wearing my Fitbit Force fitness tracker 12-27-13. I noticed a very red and irritated patch of skin directly under the band a few days ago. Today it seems worse. After some research I discovered I am not alone. I wore it every day and night for over a month. I only removed it to shower. I never got it wet. I never overcharged it. I have never had an allergic reaction to nickel. This product was in contact with my skin for more than 30days and I am horrified to read some of the theories regarding the cause. Please do what you can to find out the cause and hopefully prevent others from potential harm.
- Model
- Force
- Bought from
- Target Corp.
- Bought
- Dec 17, 2013
- Where
- Minnesota: Other
- Who was involved
- Age 45, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
Hurt, no treatment Made Jan 31, 2014, sent to the company Feb 10, 2014, published by CPSC Mar 6, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitbit Force Wireless Activity + Sleep Wristband Model number is FB402BK. Serial number is 08C441E82D18
I began using a Fitbit Force fitness tracking device on December 12th. It is the type you wear on your wrist. I wore it without issues for about a month then I woke up one morning and noticed my skin underneath the device’s charging port was red and itchy. Over the next few days I developed a red bumpy rash which was warm to the touch and spread from the initial contact site. Based on news stories and message board posts I am reading online it sounds like there are numerous people which are having the same issue. The company’s response is that it is a nickel allergy because the material around the charging port is made of surgical grade stainless steel which includes some nickel. Prior to this I did not have any allergies I was aware of. It could potentially be an issue with a faulty battery that is causing chemical burns because shortly after this started the battery stopped holding a charge for more than 36 hours.
- Model
- Force Model FB402BK
- Serial number
- 08C441E82D1
- Bought from
- Amazon.com
- Bought
- Oct 23, 2013
- Where
- Seattle, Washington: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 32, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
-
First aid Made Jan 31, 2014, sent to the company Feb 10, 2014, published by CPSC Mar 6, 2014
The product, in the report: FITBIT FORCE - Electronic wrist worn activity tracker
Started using the Fitbit Force on 12/26. As directed, it is similar to a wrist watch and I removed to wash/ shower. On 1/29, I noticed my wrist under the power supply / battery of the unit was red. I switched to other wrist. The mark on my wrist was painful like a burn. I applied topical med & even today 1/31 the area is still sore & is scabbing over. I Googled FITBIT burn & found many people in a similar situation. I am not a doctor, but the company calling it an “allergy - affecting few people” is not accurate at all. I am nearly 48, I have NO ALLERGIES. I have worn a watch for years and all sorts of bracelets and have never had a reaction to metals. This is not a rash. It is contained to the area under the power source and it burns like a burn. I have pictures if you want.
- Model
- Force ™ Wireless Activity + Sleep Wristband (Small)
- Bought from
- FITBIT.com
- Bought
- Dec 4, 2013, about then
- Where
- Westborough, Massachusetts: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 47, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand FITBIT FORCE, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
First aid Made Jan 31, 2014, sent to the company Feb 10, 2014, published by CPSC Mar 6, 2014
The product, in the report: Wrist-worn fitness tracker
After wearing the Fitbit Force for 4 weeks, I have developed a rash/burn on my left wrist, directly under the portion of the product that houses the charging mechanism/battery. It is blistery, oozes and won’t go away with over the counter ointments.
- Where
- San Jose, California: Other
- Who was involved
- Age 44, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit Force, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 29, 2014, sent to the company Feb 6, 2014, published by CPSC Mar 3, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitness Tracker, Fitbit Force, large black band.
I developed a rash that turned into an open wound on my wrist after wearing a Fitbit Force activity tracker.
- Bought from
- www.fitbit.com, California
- Bought
- Dec 16, 2013
- Where
- San Diego, California: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 55, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit Force, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
Hurt, care not known Made Jan 29, 2014, sent to the company Feb 6, 2014, published by CPSC Mar 3, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitbit Force activity monitor (Which I think is a health - personal care product, but I can’t find that specific category ) Model FB402BK Serial number 08F62EBC2D19 Note that I cannot be certain whether the initial character is O or 0. UPC 898628002861
[ your site lost my letter I typed out when I hit submit, so I’m trying this a second time, more abbreviated ]
I purchased a Fitbit Force last October. Received it in November. My wife started to wear it in December. After about 4 weeks she developed a rash on her left wrist where she was wearing the Fitbit Force, where its metal parts meet the skin. She stopped wearing the Fitbit Force, but the rash has continued to worsen and is still ongoing, red, inflamed, itchy.
Fitbit blames this on a nickel allergy that n% and a very small percentage of their customers have.
Except my wife does not have said allergy.
I question the safety of the product and specifically the metal composition; as the “highest grade stainless steel” which Fitbit claims is used; is several shades darker and more textured than any stainless steel that I am familiar with through for instance my [REDACTED] wrist watches and tools.
I think action should be taken to protect other consumers who are unaware they are likely to get a severe rash with prolonged use of the defective product.
- Model
- Force FB402BK
- UPC
- 898628002861
- Serial number
- 08F62EBC2D19
- Bought from
- Fitbit inc
- Bought
- Oct 10, 2013
- Where
- Augusta, Maine: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 61, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Spouse
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Level of care not known
-
Hurt, no treatment Made Jan 24, 2014, sent to the company Feb 3, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 26, 2014
The product, in the report: The Fitbit Force is a wireless activity and sleep monitor with an internal battery that is charged via plugging into a USB port using the provided cord. I think it has a lithium ion battery, but I don’t know for sure. It is a “wristband” that is normally worn all the time on the non-dominant arm and track things like steps, stair climbs, and sleep.
I received a Fitbit Force at the end of December from my husband for a Christmas present. I have been wearing it every day. Today when I took it off to take a shower, I have a weird burn or rash on my arm. It is a reddish area with two raised “bumps” in it. I believe this is caused by something having to do with the device. It has appeared since Monday, which is the last day I had it off of my arm. I did not notice any problem then. I have photos if anyone wants to see them.
- Model
- Force
- Serial number
- none visible
- Bought from
- Target
- Bought
- Dec 18, 2013
- Where
- Gilbert, Arizona: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 62, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
-
Hurt, no treatment Made Jan 24, 2014, sent to the company Feb 3, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 26, 2014
The product, in the report: Wearable tracking device
I purchased a fitbit Force on 11/11/13 and wore it without incident unitl I began to notice a red, itchy, blistery patch on my right wrist. I switched the Force to my left wrist and then began to experience the same red, itchy blisters on that wrist within hours. After two weeks of treatment and not wearing the Force during the day my rash/burn is barely healing.
- Bought from
- Sprint, Kansas
- Bought
- Nov 11, 2013
- Where
- overland park, Kansas: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 47, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit Force, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 24, 2014, sent to the company Feb 3, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 19, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitbit Force fitness tracker wristband in black, size small ordered directly from Fitbit.com
The product is called the FitBit Force and it is meant to be worn 24/7 as a fitness tracker, sleep tracker and pedometer. It is worn on the wrist (mine on my left wrist) loosely, but I would take mine off to shower and do dishes. The tracker is claimed to be water resistant. It is a polymer type bracelet with a front display as well as an open charging port opposite the display on the back which directly rests on the skin near the lateral aspect of the wrist.
Now to tell you about my reaction and why I am concerned for the safety of others; My reaction began 9 days ago on 1/15/14 and I began wearing the force on 12/25/13. My reaction began as a very small itchy red hive, that began to ooze clear fluid. This bump began on the lateral side of my left wrist underneath where the charging port comes into contact with my skin. The next morning when I woke up, the redness had increased in size to about the size of a nickel and there was a weeping area oozing clear fluid in the center. I covered the area with some sterile gauze as I am a physician and cannot have it open in the hospital. At this point I switched the force to my right wrist. I notified my husband of my wound and he said it may be my force as he had just heard on the news that there were cases of allergic reactions. The next day (1/17) I noticed a red bump underneath the charging port on my right wrist. I decided to continue to wear the band above my long sleeve shirt the remainder of the day. During this time the rash on my left wrist became larger and was now spreading outward around my wrist and was becoming swollen with bubbling of the skin and blister like lesions. I decided on 1/18 when I woke up and the rash had encompassed my entire left wrist to take it off of my right wrist, and at this point my right wrist lesion has also grown slightly in size. At this point I took an antihistamine and began using hydrocortisone 1% OTC ointment as directed, 3-4 times daily. Over the next few days, my rash grew in size, became much more swollen, began to hurt and feel tight like a bad sunburn, along with more bubbling and blistering lesions showing up. It was difficult to sleep at night and to wear any long sleeve clothing. When I went to a family physician on 1/20/14 to receive a steroid injection to kick start the anti-inflammatory process, the doctor was appalled at the site of my wrist and without any explanation he asked me how I had burned myself so badly and told me this appeared to be a chemical burn. He then prescribed me a course of prophylactic antibiotics as well as [REDACTED] burn cream to apply daily. I have also been using hydrocortisone cream as well between [REDACTED] applications. My rash/burn has become slightly less inflamed and has stop spreading after these treatments, however, the original area of skin where the rash began on my left wrist is bubbled, thick, discolored, is insensate to touch and I am afraid these are signs that this area will be scarred. The rash is gross, embarrassing, and in all honesty not welcome at the hospital where I spend most of my waking hours. For someone training to be a general surgeon, I need to be scrubbing into the operating room frequently, and this rash does not allow me to do this. Surgical scrubbing over this would be extremely painful and an open wound such as this is actually considered non-sterile and I would not be allowed into the OR. Luckily, I am currently on a non-surgical month of my job, however, as of Feb 1st I will be expected to scrub into OR cases, and I am very nervous this will not be anywhere near to presentable for the OR in a weeks time. I will attach pictures of the progression of my reaction below.
- Model
- Fitbit Force
- UPC
- 898628002946
- Serial number
- FB402BKS
- Bought from
- Fitbit, California
- Bought
- Dec 12, 2013
- Where
- Troy, Michigan: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 26, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 23, 2014, sent to the company Jan 31, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 18, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitbit Force Activity Tracker
I’ve received my Fitbit Force in November 2013. Three-four weeks after wearing it I developed a few red bumps under the charging port. I stopped wearing the device but the bumps turned into a large burn/rash in a matter of days. I quit wearing it so my arm could heal but kept getting worse and my wrist was swollen. The burning sensation was getting worse so I decided to get medical attention. It has been over 30 days and I still have a red wrist even with a prescription cream.
The worst part is that once you develop the first red bump it is too late. I’m pretty sure I will have a scar for a very long time.
You can view my 30 day progress on the Fitbit Thread below. I have uploaded 4 photos of the healing process. You can also see other users of the Fitbit Force having the same issue.
https://community.fitbit.com/t5/Force/Fitbit-burned-arm/m-p/102981#M10588
- Bought
- Nov 18, 2013, about then
- Where
- Unspecified: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 32, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit Force, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 23, 2014, sent to the company Jan 31, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 18, 2014
The product, in the report: FitBit Fitness Tracker tracks how many steps you take in a day. It categorizes these steps into how many calories used and miles walked. It syncs everything on your computer and phone app by Bluetooth
I bought this FitBit tracker around 12/26/13. Around 1/19/14 I charged it for the first time. The Day after charging it, I got a rash that developed into bumps, blisters and spreading rash. After the blisters popped, they formed into a crater that looks deep enough to leave a scar. After the rash developed, I switched arms. After 1 day the rash developed on that arm too. There are HUNDREDs of people who reported this same injury on the FitBit community forums alone. I am not allergic to nickel as alluded to as a cause by FitBit company.
- Bought from
- Target
- Bought
- Dec 26, 2013, about then
- Where
- Upper Marlboro, Maryland: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 51, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand FitBit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
Hurt, no treatment Made Jan 23, 2014, sent to the company Jan 31, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 18, 2014
The product, in the report: Tracks steps, distance, stairs climbed, calories burned and active minutes. View stats on your wrist with OLED display, including time of day (clock). Monitors your sleep and wakes you with a silent alarm. Wear all day and night. Sweat, rain and splash proof.
I purchased a FitBit Force in November of 2013. I wore it continuously and developed a rash on my wrist on 1/13/14. I moved the FitBit to the other arm and realized yesterday that the small bumps have now started forming there. I have had this “rash” for a week and half now and it got worse and isn’t appearing to get better. I then found out many other FitBit Force owners are experiencing similar rashes. FitBit is claiming it is an allergy to Nickel, but I have no allergies and no skin sensitivity issues. Plus, if it was a nickel allergy, it should have produced the rash reaction within 12-48 hours... not 2 months later. I’m hoping FitBit is doing the proper testing to see what the issue really is and not just picking the easiest “excuse.”
The next issue is that they are offering a refund or product replacement. Great. Until it was shown on their website message boards that they are offering different refund policies to different customers. For instance- if you bought the Force at a retail store, you could take it back to that store to get a refund and FitBit will STILL send you a replacement item. But if you ordered the original item directly from FitBit, they are only offering you one or the other- not both options. That is not fair and they need to get their act together and be consistent. They also need to remove the product until they are sure what the cause is. I am a 36 year old woman who is healthy and have no allergies. I am appalled with how FitBit is handling this and I will certainly never buy their products again.
- Model
- Force
- Bought
- Nov 1, 2013, about then
- Where
- Unspecified: Unspecified
- Who was involved
- Age 36, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 23, 2014, sent to the company Jan 31, 2014, published by CPSC Mar 7, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitbit force wristband
I started wearing a Fitbit Force about 6 weeks ago. Two weeks ago I noticed a rash right under where the metal / battery part of the Force touches my arm. It was (and is) red, scaly and itchy. I stopped wearing the Force and started treating the rash with a prescription cream but it isn’t getting better.
On the Fibit user forum there are hundreds of people reporting the exact same problem. Fitbit says it’s a nickel allergy, but people who are allergic to nickel report that they are not having a reaction from the Force, while people like me who are not allergic to nickel ARE having a severe reaction. There is a lot of speculation on the forum about causes including chemicals leaking from the battery.
Just about everyone wore the Force for a few weeks before the reaction started. Most of the people had to get medical treatment. Their doctors have given out a variety of diagnoses.
Whatever the cause, the product is causing a reaction that is unpleasant and lasts for weeks if not longer, and which requires medical treatment. For some people it could be a trigger for cellulitis which can be life-threatening. Yet ... they still market it, they say nothing about it on their website, and their public statements minimize the issue. In my opinion this is irresponsible.
- Model
- Force
- Bought from
- Fitbit
- Bought
- Nov 30, 2013, about then
- Where
- Lexington, Massachusetts: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 60, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 23, 2014, sent to the company Jan 31, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 18, 2014
The product, in the report: FITBIT FORCE™ WIRELESS ACTIVITY AND SLEEP WRISTBAND “A powerful Force for everyday fitness, this sleek wristband is with you all the time. Stay motivated to keep moving with real-time stats right on your wrist. Track steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, stairs climbed and active minutes throughout the day. At night, track your sleep and wake up silently with a vibrating alarm.”
After using my Fitbit Force for about 2 weeks, a small red patch began to appear under the face of where the device sat on my wrist. It looked like a bug bite so I covered it with anti-itch cream and put a band-aid over it and moved my device further toward my hand. Within 2 days another red spot appeared and the original wound was becoming much larger and beginning to blister. I immediately removed the device and contacted the manufacturer who at the time down played the incident and speculated that I may have an allergy to something in their product. They offered to replace the device or refund me. I declined both tentatively until my growing injury healed entirely. Several days later the injury grew to the size of about 2.5” x 4” along my wrist. Fearing infection, I scheduled an emergency appointment with my Dermatologist. He diagnosed it as a severe case of contact dermatitis; warning that the device must have something very irritable in it. He prescribed Clobetasol Propionate Ointment to help heal the injury and recommended a product with Zinc in it to prevent scarring after the injury finally healed, but cautioned that it could take up to 8 weeks. During this whole process I joined a community discussion on Fitbit’s forum only to discover that there are at least than two dozen people who have come forward (so far) with the same issue. The conversation thread is now 80 pages long with irate and injured people from this product. In reading back through other threads, the first incident appears to have surfaced back in November. I feel it was very negligent of Fitbit to keep this product on the market, especially through the holidays where an exponential number of additional people could be exposed. They risked injury in favor of profits and they provided no warnings on their product packaging to give consumers a heads up. It took until January 21st for the CEO to make a formal statement on their website (which you have to go digging to find) and three months later they are STILL speculating on what the cause is. I don’t know how my injury will heal, hopefully without a scar. But Fitbit needs to assume responsibility for their negligence, stop selling this product and stop treating consumers like it is OUR fault that this happened to us. Please let me know what additional info I can provide. I have stage progression photos of my injury and can get you anything else you need to pursue this.
- Model
- FITBIT FORCE™ WIRELESS ACTIVITY AND SLEEP WRISTBAND
- Bought from
- R.E.I., Washington
- Bought
- Dec 18, 2013
- Where
- Snoqualmie, Washington: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 32, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 23, 2014, sent to the company Jan 31, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 18, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitbit Force. The Fitbit Force is an exercise tracker - it logs steps taken, stairs climbed, calories burned, and also tracks sleep.
After wearing a Fitbit Force for several weeks, I suddenly developed a severe reaction under the product’s wristband.
The rash or burn that developed appeared suddenly, and as soon as I was aware of it, I removed the Fitbit Force (which is designed to be worn almost 24x7) and have not worn it since. The reaction, however, has continued to worsen.
Many users have had similar reactions (see: https://community.fitbit.com/t5/Force/Fitbit-burned-arm/td-p/3661 for a >1000 post discussion among users with the same or similar reactions and many photos of what the reactions look like). Fitbit seems to think the reaction is a nickel allergy, though most of the users have never had a nickel allergy before. Among those who have seen dermatologists, many believe the reaction to be a chemical burn.
- Model
- Force
- UPC
- 89628002656
- Bought from
- Fitbit.com
- Bought
- Nov 25, 2013
- Where
- Wayland, Massachusetts: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 48, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
First aid Made Jan 23, 2014, sent to the company Jan 31, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 18, 2014
The product, in the report: Watch exercise sleep tracker.
Fitbit force causing rash on my wrist. Fibit is claiming its due to a nickel allergy which I dont have. Many people are reporting the same issue.
- Model
- Force
- Bought from
- Fitbit Online
- Where
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 43, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Unspecified
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit Force, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 22, 2014, sent to the company Jan 30, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 21, 2014
The product, in the report: Band to track sleep, steps taken, miles walked etc
As with many other people, I had a reaction to wearing the band as it was designed. While the company is refunding my money, I feel that they are downplaying how many people have had a reaction. We are all out time from work, doctor visit co-pays and prescription costs. They really should recall the device before more people go thru this ordeal.
- Model
- Force
- Bought from
- www.fitbit.com
- Bought
- Dec 8, 2013, about then
- Where
- Stoney Beach, Maryland: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 48, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fit Bit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
First aid Made Jan 19, 2014, sent to the company Jan 29, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 20, 2014
The product, in the report: FitBit Force which is a wearable device to track your steps.
I received the FitBit Force which is a new wearable device that tracks your steps. After a few weeks of wearing I started to see what appeared to be a chemical burn on my arm. They are saying this is an allergic reaction to nickel but it appears to be coming in the spot on where you charge the device. They are currently replacing my device with an older version but it has been three weeks and the burn continues. I fear the company is just hiding behind the allergy reason to avoid loss in revenue. This is a public safety issue and they need to be investigated to recall the item. People who have suffered can be found all over the internet writing and posting about their experience. I am more than happy to share my photos.
- Model
- FitBit Force
- Bought from
- FitBit, California
- Bought
- Nov 19, 2013
- Where
- Fremont, California: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 34, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- My Spouse
- As this report names them
- Brand FitBit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
First aid Made Jan 15, 2014, sent to the company Jan 27, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 26, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitness tracker/pedometer worn on wrist
I wore the Fitbit force on my arm for about a week when I noticed a red area under the band. I thought maybe I got soap or something under the device, so I switched it to my other wrist. After two days, there was a red mark on my left wrist, and my right wrist looked worse, the red spot had blistered. At that time, I went to the Fitbit website and checked the discussion boards for allergic reactions. I found many people had the same issue, but they believed it was a chemical burn from the battery port. A week after removing the Fitbit, my arm still has not healed.
- Model
- Force
- Bought from
- Radio Shack
- Bought
- Dec 22, 2013, about then
- Where
- Copley, Ohio: Other
- Who was involved
- Age 47, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit force, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 14, 2014, sent to the company Jan 24, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 18, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitbit Force Size small Color black According to the Fitbit website....Fitbit Force wrist bands are made of a flexible, durable elastomer material similar to that used in many sports watches. They do not contain latex. The clasps and casing are made of surgical-grade stainless steel and contain traces of nickel.
Product: Fitbit Force (fitness device) online purchase price $129.95. This “defective” product should be recalled, consumers should receive complete refund for product and reimbursement for their medical expenses.
I purchased a Fitbit Force fitness wristband device online from the manufacturer’s website (www.fitbit.com). I received the item on December 6, 2013 and began wearing it on my left arm. For the first 20+ days the only device issue I encountered was it’s a hard-to-clasp wristband. However on December 31st I developed a blistering, red rash on my left wrist. I discontinued wearing the device and used over-the-counter treatments on my rash. I wasn’t sure the fitness device had caused the rash so I began wearing it on my right arm.
On January 3, 2014 the rash on my left wrist was so severe I scheduled a doctor’s visit and was diagnosed with a fungal rash and prescribed medication. However on January 5, 2014, I developed a very similar blistering, red rash on my right wrist. I was now certain the fitness device was the cause of my two rashes.
I contacted the manufacturer, Fitbit through their website. I requested exchange of product for another model. While awaiting their reply, both of my rashes worsened and I searched the internet for a possible resolution. Online I found several other Fitbit Force users were posting pictures of their rashes as they were experiencing the same rash/burn. On January 6, 2014 my doctor’s office called as a follow-up to my visit, I explained my rash was not healing so they prescribed a second medication.
Fitbit did agree to accept a return of my original product and replace it with another model. They stated: “We are sorry that you are experiencing skin irritation and for our delayed response. We want to follow up with some comments about Fitbit devices and provide some options to assist you, such as replacement of your device or refund of your purchase.
Our Force and Flex wristbands are made of a flexible, durable elastomer material similar to that used in many sports watches. They do not contain latex. The clasps and casing are made of surgical-grade stainless steel and contain traces of nickel. As with any type of jewelry, some people may experience allergies. Numerous factors can cause an allergy, such as a nickel sensitivity, reactions to bacteria that can accumulate in watch wristbands or other wearable devices, a reaction between the wristband and your soap or perspiration, or an allergy to the material of the wristband.
While we cannot diagnose whether you are experiencing an allergic reaction, allergies may be unpredictable and cause intense responses. Allergies may result from any combination of things, including irritation over time, a reaction between a watchband and your soap or perspiration, or an allergy to the material of the watchband. Certain people may have allergies to the nickel in stainless steel or from certain type of bacteria that can accumulate in watch wristbands or other wearable devices. In our ongoing interest in learning more about our customer experience, if you would like to help us better understand and assess your issue, you can help us by responding to following questions/items.
1. How tightly do you wear your band? • We’ve found that tight wristbands can cause irritation. 2. Is your wristband frequently exposed to moisture? • If so how frequently and in what conditions? (For example, I shower daily with my tracker.) 3. Have you had similar skin allergies or sensitivities from other bands? • Previous reaction to wearing a sport watch, or to stainless steel jewelry? 4. Have you tried cleaning your Fitbit device with warm soapy water, if you think you may be subject to microbial allergies? 5. Please describe the weather conditions when the irritation occurred, including the approximate temperature and humidity.
All this stated, it looks like you purchased your Force on the Fitbit.com store. If you are interested in a full refund or a partial refund for the cost difference for a One, please let us know and we arrange this for you.”
It should be noted I have never had an allergy to nickel, nor do I believe my burn was caused by an allergy. I have documented pictures of my injury from use of this fitness device. Both of my wrists are still burned and are still not completely healed.
As originally stated, I’m requesting an immediate recall of the Fitbit Force fitness device and repayment for my medical expenses.
Please note multiple articles are now reporting online our concerns with this product....
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/13/fitbit-force-rashes_n_4590859.html?1389664787
http://www.latimes.com/business/technology/la-fi-tn-fitbit-force-skin-rash-refund-20140114,0,1950912.story?track=rss#axzz2qPhrrtkn
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/fitbit-force-users-complaining-nasty-153520803.html;_ylt=A0oG7nWettVSbQ8AUvlXNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTB0Yjcxb3M5BHNlYwNzYwRjb2xvA2FjMgR2dGlkA1ZJUDA0OV8x
- Model
- Fitbit Force
- Bought from
- www.fitbit.com
- Bought
- Nov 9, 2013, about then
- Where
- Kentucky: Other
- Who was involved
- Age 47, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit Force, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
Hurt, no treatment Made Jan 14, 2014, sent to the company Jan 24, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 25, 2014
The product, in the report: Fitbit Force. A powerful Force for everyday fitness, this sleek wristband is with you all the time. Stay motivated to keep moving with real-time stats right on your wrist. Track steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, stairs climbed and active minutes throughout the day. At night, track your sleep and wake up silently with a vibrating alarm.
I have been using the fitness tracker product Fitbit Flex for a few months now without any issues. On December 25th, I received the new Fitbit Force and have been wearing it ever since. I take it off when I am showering. This morning I noticed a rash appearing on the top side of my wrist right below where the charging port is on the Fitbit Force band. I did a search on the Internet and noticed that LA Times (http://www.latimes.com/business/technology/la-fi-tn-fitbit-force-skin-rash-refund-20140114,0,1950912.story) had an article about other people having rash issues.
I have since been on the company’s community site (https://community.fitbit.com/t5/Force/Fitbit-burned-arm/td-p/3661) and there are many posts of people experiencing the same issue -- some more severe than mine.
- Model
- Force model number: FB402BK
- Bought from
- Fitbit
- Bought
- Dec 1, 2013, about then
- Where
- Unspecified: Unspecified
- Who was involved
- Age 34, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit Force, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 14, 2014, sent to the company Jan 24, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 25, 2014
The product, in the report: FitBit Force is a watch worn on your wrist that tracks steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, stairs climbed and active minutes throughout the day. At night, it tracks your sleep and wakes you up silently with a vibrating alarm.
I began wearing the FitBit Force watch on my non-dominant left wrist. After 2+ weeks of wearing the FitBit, I began to notice a rash forming under the charging port of the band. Assuming it was bacteria related, I began cleaning my FitBit Force watch with alcohol. The rash persisted. I attempted switching the watch to my right wrist, and again, the same reaction.
After visiting with my dermotologist, I have been informed that it is due to contact dermatitis, a condition in which the skin becomes red, sore, or inflamed after direct contact with a substance.
- Model
- Force
- UPC
- n/
a - Serial number
- n/
a - Bought from
- FitBit.com
- Bought
- Dec 5, 2013, about then
- Where
- Atlanta, Georgia: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 25, Female
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand FitBit Force, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
-
Seen by a doctor or nurse Made Jan 10, 2014, sent to the company Jan 22, 2014, published by CPSC Feb 21, 2014
The product, in the report: Electronic fitness tracker that is worn on the wrist.
I wanted to tip you off to an issue I’ve been experiencing with my Fitbit Force. I pre-ordered a Force and received the device on November 13, and started using it immediately. I loved the device and sang its praises to friends, family, and colleagues. I loved having all of that data about my healthy (and not-so-healthy) habits.
In the last week of December, things started looking not-so-great. My girlfriend had noticed a red blotch under the device where the battery and charging port sits. After some researching, it turns out several other people have the same exact issue. The pictures looked like the same wound I have. Red, dry, scaly skin, eventually some blistering, and then peeling skin. And their wounds were also in the exact same location -- right under the battery and charging port. Of course, with the internet being the internet, users suspected it may have had something to do with making contact with the charging port, a leaky battery, or something else entirely. While researching, I took the device off of my left wrist and put it upside down on my right wrist. Sure enough, two days later, a red blotch started to appear on that wrist too in the device’s range of travel under the battery and charging port.
I did end up seeking medical care for this as the wound just got worse and worse, even after a week of not wearing the device at all. The nurse practitioner that had seen me at the clinic stated it was contact dermatitis due to the device and the wound on my left wrist had also become infected and will probably scar.
I opened a case with Fitbit on December 30 requesting a return. While I had heard nothing but good things about Fitbit customer service from my colleagues, I’ve found it to be abysmal at best. Responses would range anywhere from one day to four days -- usually closer to the latter. They did offer to refund my money upon receiving the product, but they’re not acknowledging that the Force has a design flaw while they tout the device at CES all week like nothing is wrong. I really wanted to buy into the Fitbit ecosystem and I loved the device -- before the injury -- and considering I have medical expenses resulting from treatment, and the fact that healing is slow-going and may scar me, Fitbit has done nothing to show me that they care for their customers’ loyalty and I can no longer recommend any of their products due to their response (or lack thereof).
There is a rather lengthy thread on the Fitbit website about this issue where people are posting pictures and their experiences. It seems that in the past week or two activity is really picking up with more and more people having the same issue. Perhaps these were all folks that received the device as Christmas gifts or using them as part of their new year’s resolutions. It’s really such a shame. The thread is here, I’m not sure if you have to be a member to view it, but membership is free. 16 pages with 239 posts so far: https://community.fitbit.com/t5/Force/Fitbit-burned-arm/td-p/3661/highlight/true
I’ve also attached some pictures of my injuries. They are date-stamped so you’ll be able to tell the progression.
- Model
- Force
- Bought from
- Fitbit
- Bought
- Oct 11, 2013
- Where
- Des Moines, Iowa: Home/
Apartment/ Condominium - Who was involved
- Age 27, Male
- The reporter’s relation to them
- Self
- As this report names them
- Brand Fitbit, made or sold by Fitbit, Inc
- How badly, in CPSC’s words
- Injury, Seen by Medical Professional
CPSC’s disclaimer
Disclaimer: CPSC does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of the Publicly Available Consumer Product Safety Information Database on SaferProducts.gov, particularly with respect to information submitted by people outside of CPSC.
Word for word, from the disclaimer in CPSC’s export.
Sources
Sources
-
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, SaferProducts.gov public database export.
Released Oct 25, 2026 and checked Oct 25, 2026. Updated daily. Public domain (U.S. Government work). CPSC asks to be credited, and that no endorsement be implied.
Reports of harm are from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), on SaferProducts.gov. CPSC does not endorse Hearth Record.