This summer, social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have seen a surge in users monitoring the UV index. Many Gen Z creators are using this information not to avoid sun exposure but to seek out periods of high UV for tanning. At the same time, some influencers are spreading claims that sunscreen is unnecessary or harmful, raising concerns among dermatologists.
Experts caution that the risks associated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation remain significant and cumulative for all skin types. Sunburn, premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer can result from frequent or intense sun exposure.
Y. Linda Liou, DO, assistant clinical professor in the Department of Dermatology at UC San Diego School of Medicine, addressed these issues and explained how individuals can enjoy sunny days while protecting their skin.
Liou said about the current trend: “I actually love that people are paying attention to the UV index — it means they’re thinking about sun exposure. But what worries me is how it’s being used: instead of avoiding high UV times, people are chasing them to tan faster. A tan may look like a glow, but it’s really your skin’s SOS signal that DNA damage has already happened. You don’t see it right away, but the harm is happening underneath.”
She described the UV index as a measure of how strong solar radiation is on a given day, noting that “the higher the number, the faster your skin can burn or get damaged.” Even individuals with darker skin tones are affected by invisible radiation damage.
Regarding intentional tanning during peak UV hours, Liou said: “When you lay out during peak UV, you’re getting a blast of radiation at its strongest. On the surface you might see a tan or burn, but underneath, UV rays are breaking DNA, stressing out skin cells and weakening your skin’s immune defenses.
Short-term effects include sunburns, tans and more breakouts of things like cold sores. Over time, UV damage can lead to wrinkles, skin thinning, uneven pigmentation and increased risk of skin cancers that can be life threatening, like melanoma.
And just to be clear — no skin tone is immune. Darker skin tones don’t burn as easily, but UV damage still builds up and can lead to hyperpigmentation or skin cancers that are often diagnosed later because people don’t expect them.”
Liou also addressed common myths around tanning: “One of the biggest myths is that a ‘base tan’ protects you. The truth is, a tan is your skin’s response to damage — it translates to your cells pumping out melanin…to shield the rest of your skin cell from more injury. That tiny bit of protection is nowhere near as strong as sunscreen…Even the darkest natural skin tones don’t block UV completely…”
Responding to misinformation online about sunscreen safety and necessity, Liou stated: “It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the mixed messages online. But here’s the fact: sunscreen is safe, effective, and one of the simplest ways to prevent skin cancer and premature aging.”
She outlined several points:
– Some animal studies involving chemical sunscreens do not reflect typical human use.
– Not all sunscreens harm coral reefs; only certain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate have been linked with coral bleaching.
– Sunlight is unreliable for vitamin D production due to factors like seasonality and geography; supplements provide a safer alternative.
Liou shared advice she hears from patients who developed skin cancers: “I wish I had worn more sunscreen when I was younger.” She encouraged using any form suitable for different preferences—lotions, sprays or tinted products—and emphasized proactive protection.
For those seeking practical steps beyond basic precautions:
“You don’t have to avoid the sun completely…Stay in shaded areas when possible and try to do outdoor activities before 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m., when the UV index is lower.
Check the UV index on your phone. If the UV index is greater than 3…have some form of sun protection…UV radiation is still present on overcast days…
The bread and butter of ‘wear sunscreen and a hat’ is still important…Go for broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher…Reapply every 90 minutes…
There are many fun stylish options for photo-protective clothing…You should choose UPF 30+ shirts…[and] sunglasses…If you don’t want to buy new clothes,…there’s even a laundry additive called SunGuard…
There is a fern-derived dietary supplement,…polypodium leucotomos,…but it’s only a backup never a replacement for sunscreen and shade.”
