"Sunburn Art" or "Skin Cancer" - Is TikTok's New Trend "Sun Tattoo" Increasing the Risk of Skin Cancer?

1. Introduction: Why Tanned Bodies Are Trending Again

The Paris-based news program ARTE Journal sounded the alarm in July 2025, warning that the surge of "tanned beauty" content on TikTok is increasing the risk of skin cancer. The program tracked young people who apply coconut oil to their sticky skin and tan to the brink of burning, calling the reddish-brown hue "cute." This trend is particularly prominent in sunny regions like France, Italy, and Australia, spreading as a "summer self-affirmation ritual."ARTE

2. Hashtag Economics: The Shock of 200 Million Views for #sunburntlines

Entering "sunburnt" in TikTok's search bar reveals a slew of videos boasting sunburn marks, often accompanied by flame emojis. A prime example is #sunburntlines. According to Ireland's The Sun, the view count has surpassed 200 million, with the '90s sunbed culture making a "nostalgic and cool" comeback. Additionally, #tantattoo shares methods for creating "tan tattoos" using bikini strings.The SunThe Sun

3. The Decline of "Sun-Safe" Education—Statistics Reveal Dangerous Ignorance

A survey conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) in 2024 revealed that 37% of 18-26-year-olds do not apply sunscreen unless reminded by others. The tendency to downplay the DNA damage from sunburn as "okay just once" has become apparent.American Academy of Dermatology

Meanwhile, Australia's ABC News reported on a trend where young people compete to "go outside on days with UV9 or higher," with dermatologists asserting that "there is no such thing as a safe tan."ABC

4. The Algorithm Trap: The Logic of Spread and Platform Responsibility

Social media "discovery pages" prioritize visually impactful images. Scorched shoulders, distinct bikini lines, and screenshots of the ultraviolet index (UVI)—these have high visibility and engagement, quickly making it to recommendations. Consequently, the erroneous belief that "sunburn marks are what goes viral" is generated, trapping posters in a loop of seeking more extreme sun exposure.

The New South Wales Health Department pointed out that "algorithms are amplifying health hazards," urging platforms to implement warning labels and age restrictions.Queensland Health

5. The Debate on Social Media: Influencers vs. Doctors

As an example of the proponents, an Italian lifestyle creator introduced a "3-step guide to maximizing summer vibes," featuring SPF0 sun oil. The comments section is filled with remarks like "my pale skin complex is gone" and "self-esteem boosted."

In contrast, American dermatologist @drdrayzday countered on TikTok, stating, "Melanoma is a potentially fatal cancer. Sunburn marks are not badges of honor but damage," garnering millions of likes.TikTok

6. Real Harm to the Human Body: Scientific Evidence

Fortune magazine featured expert comments stating that "even a single severe sunburn increases the risk of melanoma by 20%." It has also been found that tanning beds emit large amounts of UVA rays, destroying the DNA repair mechanism.FortuneAdvanced Dermatology

The British Skin Cancer Foundation analyzed clinical data from teenage cancer patients, reporting that 45% of cases diagnosed in their early 20s had "frequently tanned during their teens."skcin.org

7. Current Status of Policies and Regulations

In the EU, the Digital Services Act (DSA), enacted in February 2025, mandates the swift removal of harmful health information. TikTok announced in the spring of the same year that it had introduced a banner displaying "reliable information on skin cancer risks" in #sunburntlines search results. Countries are also moving to strengthen advertising regulations, with Ireland nearing the passage of a bill banning sunbed use for those under 18.BreakingNews.ie

8. Corporate Responsibility and Beauty Brands' Countermeasures

Skincare companies are expanding the "non-tanning" market. Self-tanning products and "transparent sunscreen sticks" are hits among Gen Z. The consumer base seeks to "look healthy but avoid risks." Doctors also recommend self-tanners as they do not emit UV rays, making them safe.baptisthealth.net

9. Five "Sun-Smart" Guidelines for the Digital Age Recommended by Experts

1. Check the UVI every morning – Limit outdoor activities if it's 3 or higher

2. Reapply SPF 30+ every two hours – Use breaks between filming as reminders

3. UV-protective clothing + wide-brimmed hat – Spread as "SummerCore" fashion

4. Algorithm literacy – "High engagement ≠ accurate information"

5. Share skin damage – Counter-trend with unfiltered "real skin" posts

10. Conclusion: The Intersection of Light and Shadow on the Shores of Social Media

The notion that "tanned skin is a symbol of youth" echoes from the 1950s when color reproduction in photo films was poor. However, in 2025, we live in an era where AI filters and real skin damage coexist on our smartphones. Whether we can face the health risks lurking behind hashtags and share the option of using technology for "protection" will determine the next generation's "beauty standards."