Is ‘Sunburning’ A Quick, Effective Acne Treatment? Influencers Swear By This ‘Heal Acne’ Remedy

In recent years, the concept of sunburn acne treatment has gained traction on social media platforms like TikTok. Influencers are promoting the idea that sunburning can act as a quick acne treatment. But is there any truth to these claims, and what do dermatologists say about this risky trend?

For years, we’ve been advised to use sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure to protect our skin from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of skin cancer. However, a new trend is emerging on social media where influencers are encouraging their followers to skip the sunscreen and intentionally get sunburned as an acne treatment at home.

Social media influencer @melissanelosn, who boasts 450,000 followers, posted a video on TikTok showing herself sunbathing on the beach. She claimed that the “sun and saltwater” combination “burns off all [her] acne.” Similarly, TikTok user @meghanbrodie, with nearly 3,000 followers, posted a video titled “benefits of sunbeds,” suggesting that UV light from sunbeds can help reduce acne and acne scarring.

However, dermatologists strongly advise against this method. Dr. Whitney Bowe, a US-based dermatologist, responded to these TikTok videos by warning that while UV rays might temporarily reduce the appearance of acne, they also significantly increase the risk of skin cancer and can cause premature aging. “Blue light and red light from the sun can actually make acne better,” she explained, “but it comes along with ultraviolet rays which can prematurely age the skin and lead to skin cancer.”

Dr. Zainab Laftah, a consultant dermatologist and spokesperson for the British Skin Foundation, emphasized the dangers of sunburn, stating that sunburn is linked to an increased risk of skin cancers. According to Dr. Laftah, the risk of skin cancer doubles for individuals who have experienced more than five episodes of sunburn in their lifetime.

Moreover, the British Association of Dermatologists recommends that individuals with lighter skin tones should use at least SPF 30 sunscreen from March to October to minimize the risk of sunburn and skin cancer. Dr. Justine Kluck, a London-based consultant dermatologist, added that there are far safer and more effective ways to treat acne and other skin conditions than exposing the skin to harmful UV rays without proper protection. She noted that while some people might feel their skin improves in the sun, this is often due to reduced stress levels rather than the sun’s direct effect on acne.

UV rays penetrate the skin’s layers, causing DNA damage and triggering the production of melanin, which results in tanning. However, this tanning is a sign of skin damage. Dr. Bav Shergill, a consultant dermatologist at the Queen Victoria Hospital in London, clarified that developing a “base tan” does not provide significant protection against UV damage. In fact, a base tan offers protection equivalent to SPF 4, which is insufficient to prevent skin damage.

In conclusion, while the idea of sunburn acne treatment might seem like a quick acne treatment, it poses significant risks to skin health. Dermatologists unanimously agree that there are safer and more effective acne treatment options available. For teens and others struggling with acne, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals and explore proven treatments rather than risking long-term skin damage through sunburning. TikTok trends might offer intriguing ideas, but when it comes to skincare, expert advice should always take precedence.