A new social media trend called “sunburn tattoos” has dermatologists concerned.
Young people are creating temporary designs on their skin by applying sunscreen in patterns or using stickers, tape, or templates to block the sun in specific areas.
The result is a striking image of a tattoo-like sunburn.
While the images are eye-catching, doctors warn that the consequences can be severe and lifelong.
“There’s tremendous concern on that because no matter what degree of sunburn, it is damage to the skin,” said Dr. Henry Lim, a dermatologist at Henry Ford Health. “It is a very dangerous practice because sunburn and exposure to sunlight are associated with skin cancer and wrinkling, so-called photoaging changes.”
Lim explained that repeated sun exposure accelerates skin aging.
“In patients who have a lot of sun exposure, there is a lot of wrinkling formation that would occur much younger than otherwise an individual who tends to be protected from the sun.”
Lim emphasized that every sunburn increases the risk of skin damage and cancer.
“There are patients I see who were exposed to tanning booths multiple times when they were younger, in college. Now, in their 30s and 40s, they’re developing skin cancer. That can be disfiguring but also fatal,” Lim said.
Lim encourages everyone to enjoy the outdoors safely by wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and using sun-protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
“The healthiest skin is the color of the skin that you were born with,” Lim said.
For those who want the look of tanned skin, Lim recommends spray tanning as a safer alternative, but cautions against inhaling the spray.