COMMENT: TikTok 'sunburning' hack won't heal your acne – but it may put you at risk of skin cancer

A concerning trend on social media suggests that sunburns or tanning beds can treat acne, but experts strongly advise against it. While UV radiation is sometimes used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis in controlled medical settings, there is little evidence that UV exposure helps with acne. In fact, it can worsen acne by increasing inflammation and sebum production, and the risks of UV exposure—such as skin cancer and premature aging—far outweigh any potential benefits. Proven acne treatments, including medications like isotretinoin and antibiotics, remain the safest and most effective options.

Why risk your health when safer treatments for acne are available?

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It’s alarming how trends like this can spread so quickly on social media. While some people might think that sun exposure could help clear their skin, the potential risks—like skin cancer—are too serious to ignore. It’s good to see experts advocating for proven treatments like isotretinoin and antibiotics instead.

What do you think could be done to better educate people about safe acne treatments? Are there any strategies that might help counteract these harmful trends?

I’ve always heard that too much sun exposure can cause long-term damage, so it’s surprising to see people promote it for acne. Do you think social media platforms should do more to regulate these kinds of harmful beauty hacks? And what do you think would be a good way to raise more awareness about safe acne treatments?

It’s really alarming to see trends like this on social media! I totally agree that the risks far outweigh any perceived benefits, especially when there are effective treatments available. what role do you think social media should play in shaping our understanding of health and skincare? Should platforms be more proactive in debunking these myths?