Social media platforms are a revolving door of trends, and for some people it’s easy to be swept up in the fads, but when it comes to sun safety fact checking is a must.
Key points
- Any tan is a sign of DNA damage from UV exposure.
- Darker skin won't protect you from skin cancer.
- Regular sunscreen application protects against UV rays, prevents sunburn and skin ageing, and lowers the risk of skin cancer.
With evidence-based information available, such as the SunSmart App, you can protect yourself from the sun. It’s important to also be mindful of how technology-driven platforms can spread misleading or unhelpful messages.
Social media apps like TikTok have popularised a variety of tanning trends that influence how the public, especially Generation Z, think about sun exposure.
Unfortunately, some of these may put your skin and health at risk. Professor Monika Janda from UQ’s Centre for Health Services Research weighs in on popular social media trends and busts some common myths around sun safety.
The trends to skip
Tan lines, specifically those of a halter neck bikini, is an alarming viral challenge with many young people getting sunburnt to achieve the look.
“A single episode of sunburn can accelerate skin ageing and raise your risk of long-term skin damage, skin ageing and skin cancer,” Professor Janda said.
“When you look at look at the potential long term health impacts, is it really worth the risk for a trend that will go out of fashion as quickly as it came in?
“This is the same for trending beauty hacks like SPF contouring, that involve applying different SPF levels to certain parts of the face.
"From a dermatological perspective, it leaves some areas under-protected and more vulnerable to UV damage.”
Debunking the myths of sun safety
SunSmart messages are more visible than ever, but myths and misconceptions continue to spread. Professor Janda helps to debunk these myths.
Myth #1: Tanning protects my skin
Many people believe that getting a tan protects their skin from sunburn or that a gradual tan is harmless. In reality, any tan is a sign of DNA damage from UV exposure. Even a slow-developing tan increases your risk of skin cancer, and no tan is truly safe.
Myth #2: Darker skin means no skin cancer risk
It is a common misconception that darker skin is immune to skin cancer. While darker skin provides some natural protection against UV rays, it unfortunately, won’t make you invincible. Skin cancer can still develop, and it is often detected later in people with darker skin, which can make it more dangerous. Read up on balancing the benefits and harms of sun exposure here.
Myth #3: I don’t need sun protection on cloudy days
Cloudy skies do not mean sunburn takes the day off! In fact, UV rays can penetrate clouds and still harm your skin. Making sun protection part of your routine, regardless of the weather, is important for healthy skin.
Myth #4: Sunscreen chemicals are more dangerous than the sun - reality check
Some people worry that sunscreen ingredients are harmful, especially for those with sensitive skin, and believe they could be worse than sun exposure itself. But research shows that the benefits far outweigh the risks. Regular sunscreen application protects against UV rays, prevents sunburn and skin ageing, and lowers the risk of skin cancer. Many sunscreens are now formulated specifically for sensitive skin, so you can easily find one that suits you. Sunscreen should only be the last line of defence, and sun protective clothing is essential.
Worried about how to pick the right sunscreen? News reports recently showed that some sunscreens did not achieve the sun protection factor advertised on the bottle. The TGA has recalled some sunscreen for investigation. Check the TGA recall notice to make sure your sunscreen is safe and effective. It’s best to use a sunscreen that you find easy to apply, one your skin agrees with and to use it as an addition to a fashionable hat and clothing to protect yourself.
Stay informed and SunSmart this Summer
Summer is a time for fun, adventure, and soaking up the sun, but it is also when ultraviolet (UV) radiation is at its peak. This is especially true for those of us living in Queensland, so it’s important to be SunSmart.
We all know to Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, and Slide whenever possible, but sun protection shouldn’t stop there.
You can also download dedicated tools like SunSmart App to receive real-time alerts when UV levels rise, helping you to take sun safe measures at the right time.
Resources to help you stay informed and SunSmart:
Queensland Health
- Health experts share top sun safety advice
- Dangerous social media tanning trends and skin cancer risks
Australian Skin and Skin Cancer Research Centre (ASSC)
The Conversation
Reposted from UQ Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences, News Page.
