Impact of Social Media Trends on Skin Health

The Rise of Extreme Tanning Challenges

Social media is full of trends, but not all of them are safe. One dangerous trend that has become popular is extreme tanning challenges. People try to get very dark tans as fast as possible, often spending too much time in the sun without proper protection. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have countless videos of users exposing themselves to harmful UV rays or using unsafe tanning methods.

For example, the #sunburnttanlines trend on TikTok has millions of views. It encourages people to tan without warning them about the serious health risks. Some influencers promote extreme tanning without realizing they may be inspiring harmful behaviors.

The Dangers of Extreme Tanning

Tanning, whether from the sun or tanning beds, exposes your skin to dangerous ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, including melanoma, which can be deadly. Many people believe a tan makes them look healthy, but in reality, tanning is a sign of skin damage. When your skin darkens, it’s actually trying to protect itself from further harm.

According to Better Health Victoria, there is no such thing as a safe tan. Whether from the sun or a tanning bed, UV radiation increases your risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer makes up around 80% of all newly diagnosed cancers in Australia, showing how serious this issue is.

Extreme tanning can cause:

• A higher risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
• Premature aging, like wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots.
• Painful sunburns, which cause immediate skin damage and raise the risk of long-term problems.
• A weakened immune system, as too much UV exposure can make it harder for your body to fight infections.

How Social Media Plays a Role

Social media can make risky behaviors seem normal and even trendy. Many young people, especially teenagers, feel pressure to follow beauty trends seen online. Some influencers share incorrect information, such as the myth that a base tan prevents sunburn or that tanning beds are a safer alternative to sunbathing.

Despite tanning bed bans in some places, illegal tanning services still exist. Investigations have uncovered secret solariums that offer high-intensity tanning, putting people at even greater risk of skin damage and cancer.

Why Regular Mole Checks Matter

Checking your skin regularly is one of the best ways to catch skin cancer early. Many skin cancers, including melanoma, develop from moles or new spots on the skin. Seeing a dermatologist for professional mole checks can make a big difference. Skin cancer clinics use advanced tools like digital mole mapping to track changes over time.

You should also self-check at home for changes in the size, shape, color, or texture of your moles. If anything looks unusual, see a doctor as soon as possible.

How to Stay Safe in the Sun

To fight these harmful trends, educating people about UV exposure is important. Dermatologists and health organizations can use social media to share accurate information and promote healthy sun habits:

• Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen on exposed skin and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Cover up with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and long-sleeved clothing when spending time outdoors.
• Seek Shade: Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
• Avoid Tanning Beds: They emit harmful UV radiation and increase the risk of skin cancer.
• Check Your Skin Regularly: Book routine mole checks with a dermatologist and perform self-checks to spot any changes.

Social media can be a great way to share information, but it can also promote dangerous trends. Extreme tanning challenges are a serious example of this. The risks of UV exposure, including skin cancer and premature aging, should not be ignored. Since skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, spreading awareness and practicing sun safety can help save lives.

Protect your skin—because no trend is worth your health.