Years of messaging surrounding the importance of Slip Slop Slapping for smart sun protection are being seriously challenged by a dangerous TikTok tanning trend. And, while a worrying number of online influencers are glorifying the beauty of a sun-kissed glow, the reality of real and permanent skin damage (ageing, burning, cancer) has got us throwing serious shade at these unsafe practices.
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How did we go from a generation obsessed with solariums to (mostly) embracing SPF, only to boomerang back to reckless sun-worshipping habits? TikTok’s latest craze, #sunburnttanlines may have something to do with it. The hashtag has racked up over 200 million views, with users flaunting scorched bikini lines like a badge of honour. Some are even posting tutorials, complete with apps that track UV levels. Not to avoid them but to plan peak tanning times!
Videos show creators glamourising their UV-induced glow – with voiceovers urging the sun to “burn it.” This trend has dermatologists and health experts alarmed, as there’s no such thing as a safe tan. Unless it’s straight from a bottle.
Some seriously concerning sun smart stats
Supporting this concern is recent research from TAL SpotChecker – which shines a spotlight on some alarming truths. While 83% of Australians believe self-checking their skin is crucial for early detection of skin cancer, 28% admit they’ve never done it or can’t remember the last time they checked. Even more concerning, 43% haven’t had a professional skin check in the past two years, and 26% have never had one.
Furthermore, a whopping 72% of Australians equate sunny days with high UV levels, leaving them dangerously complacent on cloudy ones. With the Bureau of Meteorology predicting a hot, rainy summer – perfect conditions for high UV levels – it’s clear we need to swap ignorance for action.
Dr Priya Chagan, TAL’s General Manager of Health Services, stresses the importance of daily sun safety: “The vast majority of skin cancers are caused by UV exposure, which doesn’t take a break on cloudy days. Even when it’s overcast, UV levels can be dangerously high.”
Her advice? Check the UV index every day – if it’s 3 or above, it’s time to arm yourself with sunscreen, protective clothing, and a shady spot.
Start with a SCAN
Not sure how to check your skin for signs of cancer? You’re not alone. 30% of Australians say they don’t know how. And, 33% admit they just don’t think about it. That’s where the “SCAN” method comes in handy:
- SORE: Spots that itch, bleed, or don’t heal in six weeks.
- CHANGING: Spots that have changed in size, shape, colour, or texture.
- ABNORMAL: Spots that stand out from the rest.
- NEW: Any new spots that have appeared recently.
By familiarising yourself with your skin and checking it monthly, you can catch potential issues early. Visit www.tal.com.au/tal-spotchecker for tips, tools, and self-check guides.
