On Wednesday 14 August, 2024, the cancer charity Teenage Cancer Trust issued a warning against the dangerous online trend of ‘sunburning’, as new research reveals that 73% of 18-24 year olds admit to getting sunburnt every year.
The trend, which has gained popularity on platforms such as TikTok, promotes the idea that going out in the sun without sunscreen can give skin a ‘healthy boost’ or ‘burn off’ acne. However, Teenage Cancer Trust stresses that even getting sunburned once every two years can triple the risk of skin cancer, compared to never being burned.
Rosie Vare, Health Information Manager at Teenage Cancer Trust, stated, “We really advise against young people actively going out in the sun trying to get sunburn. Not many people realize that getting sunburn just once every two years can triple your risk of skin cancer, compared to if you’ve never been burnt.”
Melanoma, the most common form of skin cancer in young people, can be caused by overexposure to UV light from the sun and tanning beds. With the predicted heatwave approaching, the charity is reminding people, especially young adults, to protect themselves and their skin.
The research also exposed some dangerous misconceptions about sun protection, with 30% of 18-24 year olds believing that harmful UV rays are only present in the summer when the sun is out, and a third believing that a base tan can prevent sunburn. In response, Teenage Cancer Trust is sharing information on their website about how to stay safe in the sun.
Vare added, “You should always use a generous amount of water-resistant sunscreen, at least SPF30 and with a UVA star rating of four or five. Keep the sun off your face with a hat and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. The sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm, so try to stay in the shade at these times and protect your skin by wearing clothes where possible.”
Every day, seven young people aged 13-24 are diagnosed with cancer in the UK. These young people require specialized nursing care and support, and Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity dedicated to meeting this vital need.
For more information, please contact Kat Harrison-Dibbits, Head of Communications at Teenage Cancer Trust, at kat.harrison-dibbits@teenagecancertrust.org.
The research was conducted online through the Consumer Omnibus of Opinium Research from 14th to 21st July 2023, with a sample of 2,000 UK adults (18+). All results have been weighted to be nationally representative.
About Teenage Cancer Trust
Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity dedicated to putting young people with cancer in the best possible place, physically, mentally and emotionally, for their treatment and beyond. Through their expert nurses, support teams, and hospital units, they provide specialized care and support for young people aged 13 to 24 who are diagnosed with cancer.
The charity is a registered charity: 1062559 (England & Wales), SC039757. For more information, please visit www.teenagecancertrust.org.
