A new TikTok trend is encouraging teens to make “sunburn tattoos” by placing stickers on their skin and letting the surrounding area burn to create designs. While it may look creative online, doctors warn it’s actually UV damage — and every sunburn raises the risk of lasting harm.
Dermatologists say even one sunburn speeds up skin aging and raises the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form. Research shows that just five blistering sunburns between ages 15 and 20 can raise melanoma risk by 80%. That’s because UV rays cause DNA mutations that can turn into cancer over time.
Experts recommend safer alternatives like spray tans for temporary designs. To protect your skin, they suggest broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours. While a “sunburn tattoo” might trend on social media, doctors stress the long-term damage is not worth it.
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