An NHS doctor has warned that a “dangerous” new TikTok trend could increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
Health experts said that “sunburning” – a phenomenon that involves intentionally burning your skin to “heal acne” – could cause serious future health risks.
Influencers on the platform have shared videos showing themselves sunbathing on the beach, alongside captions claiming that “sun and saltwater” can “burn off” acne.
UV from the sun can damage DNA in skin cells and cause skin cancer.
While UV rays can have mild anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, overexposure can worsen acne breakouts and scarring, according to skincare company Nivea.
Sam Orkar, a consultant plastic surgeon and clinical director of plastics and burns at the Queen Victoria Hospital Foundation Trust, told the BBC: “Trends such as this not only pose an immediate danger but have the potential to cause lifelong health issues.”
He urged people to “look after” themselves in extreme heat by using suncream and “safer” treatments for skin conditions.
Melanoma skin cancer cases are at an all-time high, with 20,800 people expected to be diagnosed this year in the UK, according to Cancer Research UK.
Analysis by Cancer Research UK shows rates of melanoma have increased by almost a third over a decade, from 21 to 28 per 100,000 people between 2007-09 and 2017-19.
Cancer Research UK advises people to spend time in the shade during the hottest times of the day, cover up with clothes and use sunscreen with at least SPF30.
Almost nine in 10 adults diagnosed with melanoma in England will now survive their disease for a decade or more, but early diagnosis is key to survival.
TikTok has been approached for comment.
