TikTok’s dangerous ‘sunburn’ trend, aimed at curing acne, could significantly raise the risk of developing skin cancer, experts warn. Avoid this fad and protect your skin.
Health experts are concerned about a TikTok trend that promotes using Sunburn to treat acne. The Queen Victoria Hospital Foundation Trust in East Grinstead has strongly cautioned against this dangerous practice. Influencers on social media are urging people to skip sunscreen and deliberately subject their skin to harmful UV rays in the belief that it will enhance their skin and heal acne.
Dr. Sam Orkar, clinical director of Queen Victoria’s Plastics and Burns Services, was deeply concerned about this development. “Trends such as this not only pose an immediate danger but have the potential to cause lifelong health issues,” Orkar said. Getting sunburned often increases the chance of getting skin cancer, which can have disastrous long-term consequences.
On these grounds, TikTok has responded by removing several videos that promote this trend as harmful and against community guidelines. However, The hospital has not seen cases linked to the trend, but it warns that repercussions could be severe in the future. Skin cancer and the main health concern of premature aging due to frequent sunburns are what health professionals are worried about. Also read https://theaspectratio.in/health-fitness/why-your-ac-might-be-harmful-top-health-issues-linked-to-sleeping-in-cold-air/
Why “Sunburning” is a Risky Trend
The “sunburning acne” trend, popularized on TikTok, encourages users to sunburn their skin as an acne treatment intentionally. This misguided approach contradicts dermatological advice and ignores proven acne remedies such as topical creams, oral medications, and proper skincare routines. Content creator Haley Wenthold’s viral video promoting this method has amassed over 1.7 million views, potentially influencing impressionable viewers.
This trend raises concerns about skin damage, premature aging, and increased skin cancer risk. Dermatologists warn that UV exposure can worsen acne and cause long-term harm. The trend’s popularity highlights the need for better skin health education and critical evaluation of social media beauty advice.
Experts in the healthcare field strongly discourage this behavior. Skin that is sensitive and prone to acne is already vulnerable, and increased exposure to the sun can worsen this susceptibility. Extended UV exposure not only results in painful sunburns but can also play a role in the formation of skin cancer, premature aging, and skin lesions. Read More- https://www.euronews.com/health/2024/08/13/sunburning-the-dangerous-new-tiktok-trend-experts-say-may-increase-your-risk-of-cancer
Highlights of the Content
- Rising Trend: Social media influencers promote ‘sunburning’ as a cure for acne.
- Health Risks: Experts warn that this trend increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.
- Expert Opinions: The Queen Victoria Hospital and other dermatologists condemn the trend.
- Safe Alternatives: Dermatologists advise using sunscreen and consulting professionals for acne treatment.
- DIY Sunscreen Risks: Homemade sunscreens lack effective protection and could lead to more harm than good.
The Best Way to Protect Your Skin
Ensure the protection of your skin by using commercially available sunscreens that adhere to safety regulations. If you have worries about chemical ingredients, consider selecting mineral sunscreens that include zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. It is also important to wear protective clothing, find shade during the sun’s peak hours, and regularly reapply sunscreen as essential measures in preventing sun damage and minimizing the risk of cancer.
For more information on effective sun protection and skincare, consult with a dermatologist and follow recommended guidelines to keep your skin safe and healthy.
The Dangers of DIY Sunscreens
DIY sunscreens are trending, with influencers promoting homemade formulas using natural ingredients like coconut oil, beeswax, and zinc oxide. Despite their appeal, these DIY alternatives pose significant risks. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dustin Portela warns that homemade sunscreens lack the rigorous testing and quality control of commercial products. They often fail to provide consistent SPF protection or adequate water resistance, leaving users vulnerable to sunburn and long-term skin damage.
Unlike regulated sunscreens, DIY versions don’t undergo standardized testing to ensure effectiveness across various skin types and conditions. This gap in quality control can lead to inadequate protection against harmful UV rays, potentially increasing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) strongly advises against using homemade sunscreens.
According to their research, these products typically offer insufficient protection, making users susceptible to early aging and skin cancer. Commercial sunscreens continue to be the recommended option for efficient UV protection, even in light of concerns regarding their contents.
In summary, while social media trends can be tempting, prioritizing proven medical advice and protective measures is crucial for maintaining skin health. Avoid risky practices like sunburning and homemade sunscreens to protect yourself from serious health consequences.
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