Experts Warn Against TikTok Skincare Trend: Sunbathing for Acne Could Be Dangerous

Social media has been the scene of countless dubious recommendations, but a new skincare trend on TikTok is causing concern among experts. Some content creators suggest that sunbathing or spending time in a solarium can help fight acne, but this approach is not only ineffective but can is a serious health risk, warns an article published by Karl Lawrence, Researcher, and Wisam Alwan, Clinical Research Fellow. in Dermatology, both from King’s College London, on The Conversation platform.

Although the sun and ultraviolet (UV) radiation have long been used to treat some skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, there is little evidence that UV exposure is effective in treating acne. . “The risks associated with excessive exposure to UV radiation far outweigh any potential benefits in the appearance of the skin,” warn the authors.

Phototherapy is a medical procedure that involves exposing the skin to sunlight or UV radiation in a controlled environment. It can be effective in cases of psoriasis and eczema where other treatments have failed or are not compatible. However, phototherapy is always performed in a clinical setting, with carefully controlled doses to minimize the harmful effects of UV exposure. Experiments are being done in the past to reduce the risk of sunburn.

In terms of acne, “there is little evidence that exposure to UV rays is beneficial,” say Lawrence and Alwan.

A study conducted in 2023, which included 19,939 participants, assessed exposure to UV rays in the six years prior to enrollment. The results suggested that prolonged exposure to low levels of UVB (about an hour per day) was associated with a lower likelihood of developing moderate to severe acne in young adults. However, experts highlight several limitations: UV doses have not been measured directly, instead relying on location calculations and meteorological data. In addition, the study did not address the potential negative effects of prolonged sun exposure.

In experiments with human skin cells, it was observed that UVB rays could eliminate the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, associated with the development of acne. However, these results have not been replicated in human studies, and the results indicate that any benefit is likely to be small and insufficient for therapeutic use, especially considering the adverse effects of UV radiation. .

A 2023 review that looked at all studies of sun exposure and acne conducted between 1992 and 2022 concluded that exposure to UV radiation rarely improves acne symptoms. In some cases, it can even worsen the condition, because UVB rays can activate immune cells that increase inflammation and increase sebum production, a known risk factor for acne development.

In addition to the lack of effectiveness in treating acne, excessive sun exposure is associated with well-documented risks, such as an increased risk of skin cancer. Studies show that just one episode of severe sunburn in childhood or adolescence can double the likelihood of developing skin cancer in adulthood. “The risk increases with the frequency of sunburn, due to the significant damage that UV radiation causes to the DNA of skin cells,” the authors explained.

Sun exposure also contributes to premature skin aging by damaging collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and sagging.

To reduce risks, Lawrence and Alwan recommend the following precautions when exposed to the sun:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, reapplying every two hours or after swimming or perspiring.
• Seeking shade during open sun (usually between 10am and 4pm).
• Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses with UV protection.
• Effective treatment for acne: Currently, the most effective treatments for acne include medications that are available over the counter or prescribed by a doctor. For more serious cases, oral antibiotics with anti-inflammatory effects and isotretinoin (a synthetic derivative of vitamin A) are common options. Isotretinoin is known to reduce sebum production, skin lesions and acne-causing bacteria, being able to clear 85% of lesions after four months of treatment. Only about 25% of patients need a second cycle of treatment.
  Despite its effectiveness, there are concerns about possible side effects, such as mood changes. However, a recent study of more than 30,000 patients found no association between isotretinoin and mood changes, suggesting that these side effects are rare.

It is important to emphasize that anyone who is taking medication for acne should be careful when they expose themselves to the sun. Medicines such as isotretinoin and tetracyclines (a type of antibiotic) can increase sensitivity to light, causing more damage to the skin when exposed to the sun. One study showed that between 20 and 40% of patients taking tetracyclines had photosensitivity. Therefore, the use of sunscreen is essential for anyone undergoing treatment.

Authors Karl Lawrence and Wisam Alwan warn that despite the temptation to try alternatives seen on social media, “it’s important to talk to a doctor before trying it.” “use the sun or solarium as an acne treatment.” There are already safe and effective options for treating acne, and it is important to avoid solutions that may pose additional health risks.