Sunscreen Smarts: Debunking the Myth of Sunburning for Acne

The summer may be winding down, but the risks of sun exposure remain high. The latest social media trend claiming that intentionally getting sunburned can help treat acne or rejuvenate skin is nothing short of misleading. As dermatologists Jennifer Stein and Elizabeth Berry remind us, the sun's ultraviolet radiation is a major risk factor for skin cancer and premature aging. So, why are some influencers and health enthusiasts promoting the idea that ditching sunscreen and embracing sunburns is the way to go? Let's start by acknowledging that there is a tiny grain of truth to this claim. In the past, radiation therapy was used to treat acne, but it's no longer a recommended treatment option due to the increased risk of skin cancer and other health concerns. Now, photodynamic therapy and narrow-band ultraviolet B (UV-B) radiation are used to treat acne, but only as a last resort and under medical supervision. So, what's driving this trend? It's likely that people are seeking a quick fix or a magical solution to their skin concerns, and the idea of "sunburning" seems like an easy and effective way to achieve it. But, as Stein and Berry emphasize, the risks of sun exposure far outweigh any potential benefits. In fact, radiation exposure can even trigger a bout of acne in some cases.But what about the concerns around sunscreen? Some research has shown that certain ingredients in chemical sunscreens can be absorbed by the body, leading to concerns about potential health risks. However, Berry notes that there are important caveats to this research, and it's not yet clear whether there's any actual reason to be worried. So, what can you do to protect your skin from the sun? According to Stein, physical measures like wearing a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing, as well as seeking shade and avoiding the midday sun, are more important than sunscreen. And, Berry notes, there are now specialized clothing options designed and tested to provide clear protection against the sun's radiation. In conclusion, it's crucial to prioritize sun safety and protect your skin from the risks of sun exposure. Sunscreen is not something to be scared of, and it's worth pairing physical measures with sunscreen use to ensure maximum protection. As Berry so aptly puts it, "I can't think of a reason not to use sunscreen. "