There are an increasing number of gadgets in the market that now monitor the strength of UV rays so you can apply the appropriate SPF. One of them is the Sunmate, which we wrote about here.

Another nifty gizmo is the UV Sun Sense bracelet that you wear whenever you go outdoors. Slather on sunscreen and also apply some on the bracelet. The UV Index is a scale given to the level of UV radiation on any given day (the range is from 0-20). The higher the index, the higher the potential for skin damage.

Then the band is exposed to light, it turns purple (like Barney, but with a purpose!) to indicate that it’s been activated.

When the band is no longer purple, it’s time to reapply sunscreen. When the words “APPLY SUNSCREEN TO THIS SIDE” disappear, it’s time to scoot out of the sun as quickly as the Mad Hatter

We say beach SPF sense simply doesn’t get easier than this.

A 7 Pack retails for $5.87 at Amazon.com

Your new beach BFF may be this little gadget that’s no bigger than your thumb. Sunmate is designed to measure the sun’s strength, so you can be better prepared when you hit the beach or the outdoors this summer.

Press the white button at the top of the gadget to measure the UV index, and the LED indicators light up between 1 and 5 depending upon the intensity of the UV light.

An indicator of 1 for example, indicates low danger to UV light. A 5 signals great UV strength.

We think it’s pretty darn nifty for only $19.95. Click here to find out more.