Coppertone iPhone application gives reapplication reminders for sun care

Merck’s sun care brand Coppertone has launched an iPhone application that offers consumers more help choosing sun protection and reminds them to reapply the product at regular intervals.

MyUVAlert is a free application that aims to encourage correct and adequate usage of sun protection through a variety of features including local UV forecasts and reapplication reminders.

Reapplication reminders and local UV forecasts

Reminders that alert consumers to the fact that more sunscreen needs to be reapplied can be modified according to activity, for example, after swimming or sweating, which would result in more frequent reminders, the company said.

Local UV forecasts can be generated by entering a zip code or city location, and the strength of UV rays is calculated, the higher the number indicating stronger rays.

Instructional icons appear that correspond to the UV radiation levels which indicate steps that should be taken by consumers in order to stay safe in the sun, such as staying in the shade or wearing a hat.

The application also aims to make the purchase of sun care products easier, and can display product profiles and personal recommendations. Those who download the application can also access sun care protection tips from the Coppertone Solar Research Center.

MyUVAlert can be used with both an iPhone and iPod Touch.

Coppertone latest personal care company to embrace iPhone apps

Coppertone is the latest company in the cosmetics and personal care industry to embrace iPhone applications.

Flavor and fragrance company Givaudan recently launched an application designed to help consumers navigate the vast array of different fragrances on the market.

As well as profiling the very latest launches, it also highlights which fragrances have proved to be the most popular among buyers.

Meanwhile, Cosmetifique is an application launched earlier this year that claims to inform consumers of which products should be avoided using a searchable database of over 5,000 ingredients in INCI format.

Results for ingredients searches come back highlighted red, orange or green to denote whether the ingredient is good, acceptable or should be avoided, according to the creator of the application, Alfredo Delli Bovi.