While some TikTok users claim that getting a sunburn got rid of their acne, experts say it’s a dangerous trend that will ultimately do more harm than good.
TikTok is filled with health and wellness advice that you probably shouldn’t heed, especially when it comes to skincare.
One particular trend, which encourages getting intentional sunburns as a way to dry out and get rid of acne, is more than just ineffective — it’s also harmful.
“As a plastic surgeon, I strongly advise against the dangerous trend of intentionally getting sunburns to treat acne,” says Joel Kopelman, MD, a facial plastic surgeon.
And yet, videos of people intentionally exposing their faces to the sun’s rays have gone viral on the app, with one content creator’s video on the subject receiving more than 1.7 million views.
“Telling the sun to burn off my acne,” wrote content creator Haley Wenthold in the clip.
Another video with more than 800,000 views shows TikToker Melissa Nelson sitting in the sun in hopes that the sun and saltwater will “burn off all [her] acne.”
But while UV exposure might temporarily reduce acne by drying out the skin, Kopelman syas it comes with severe risks.
“Sunburns cause significant damage to the skin, leading to an increased risk of skin cancer, premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and long-term scarring,” he says. “This method is not only ineffective in the long term but also poses serious health dangers.”
Dermatologist Jeffrey Fromowitz, MD, agrees — emphasizing that a sunburn is not an effective way to get rid of acne and is instead a dangerous practice.
Plus, while a sunburn may dry out some pimples in the short run, Fromowitz says the sun actually worsens inflammation and redness over time and increases the risk of pigment changes, potentially leading to hyperpigmentation and darker acne scars in the long term.
“Any sunburn damages your skin and accumulates long-term damage that not only leads to premature aging and wrinkles, but also the development of skin cancers,” he adds.
What to do instead of getting a sunburn
Instead of exposing your delicate skin to the harmful rays from the sun, Kopelman recommends using clinically proven acne treatments such as topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid, all of which can help manage acne without causing harm. Additionally, he says protecting your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen is crucial — not only to prevent a sunburn but also to avoid exacerbating acne and other skin issues.
Fromowitz adds that there have been many improvements in acne treatments in recent years, and the range of options — from OTC to in-office treatments — is vast.
I have one piece of advice: avoid getting sunburnt! I highly recommend that you seek advice from a board-certified dermatologist so they can custom-craft an acne regime that is specific to your skin type and presentation.
Jeffrey Fromowitz, MD
Your email will not be published. All fields are required.