Every so often, something comes my way that I initially assume will be gimmicky, only to realise later that it’s quite brilliant. The BEAME Under The Spotlight UV Detection Stickers fall squarely into that category. They’re a simple, clever invention designed to take the faff and guesswork out of sunscreen reapplication, which is something most of us (even the most diligent SPF wearers) tend to get wrong.
The concept couldn’t be more straightforward. Each little sticker uses UV-sensing technology to let you know when your sunscreen has stopped doing its job. When your SPF is freshly applied and working properly, the sticker stays clear. Once the protection fades, it turns a deep violet giving you a visual nudge that it’s time to reapply. It’s oddly satisfying to watch, and rather reassuring to know exactly where you stand on the protection front.
A pack of 36 stickers (or 60, if you prefer) will comfortably see you through a week in the sun. They’re ideal for holidays, festivals, or any long days spent outdoors. I think they’re especially useful for families, when keeping track of who’s been topped up and when can feel like an Olympic sport. Children in particular tend to resist frequent sunscreen applications, so anything that helps make the process more visual, and therefore more persuasive, is a win.
Application is idiot-proof. You stick one onto an area that’ll be exposed to the sun, such as your arm or shoulder, then apply sunscreen over both skin and sticker as usual. Once it’s on, you don’t feel it’s there. It doesn’t budge, even if you’re swimming, sweating, or towelling off.
It’s not often that something so small and inexpensive makes this much sense. But BEAME’s stickers do exactly what they promise. They make SPF reapplication easier, smarter and less forgettable. A great invention that I think a lot of people will benefit from.
