Skin Health Professionals Combat Rising Tide of Sunscreen Misinformation

For most Americans, sunscreen has long been considered a cornerstone of basic skin care. Yet years of progress in public adoption of sun safety practices is now facing a significant challenge from misinformation spreading rapidly across social media platforms.

A 2025 study revealed a proliferation of TikTok videos using the hashtag #nosunscreen that promote numerous myths about sun protection, including claims that sunscreen is unnecessary or potentially harmful to health. This misinformation is gaining alarming traction, with researchers Nikookam and colleagues reporting that the #nosunscreen hashtag had exceeded 11.7 million views on TikTok, while #AntiSunscreen content had accumulated more than 5.3 million views. Their research also documented a substantial increase in Google searches for anti-sunscreen content.

Dermatologists nationwide report these misconceptions increasingly appearing in their examination rooms. “We are encountering an alarming rise in myths regarding sunscreen and sun protection,” said Annie Grossberg, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of pediatric dermatology at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore. “Some of these include misinformation about the dangers of sunscreen and the necessity of wearing sunscreen.”

Among the most prevalent myths are claims that people can develop a “solar callus” for natural sun protection, or that common household products like coconut oil or beef tallow can substitute for FDA-approved sunscreens.

“The rise in misinformation is likely multifactorial, but the viral nature of social media is a major contributor,” Dr. Grossberg explained. “Influencers with broad audiences can post anecdotes or opinions and present this as factual and in a sensationalist manner, despite a lack of supporting evidence.”

Swati Kannan, MD, associate professor of dermatology and Mohs surgeon at the University of California San Diego, added: “Algorithm-driven platforms reward sensational natural health narratives, and influencer anecdotes travel faster than peer-reviewed data, while distrust of chemical ingredients dovetail with broader wellness and clean-beauty marketing.”

Veena Vanchinathan MD, a dermatologist and member of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), notes that she most frequently encounters these misconceptions from younger patients who are active on social media. “Patients may ask if natural oils are better, express concerns about chemical sunscreens, or mention tanning as a way to build protection from UV damage,” she said.

Dr. Grossberg recounts numerous instances of parents expressing fear about using sunscreen on their children based on social media content. “These are well-meaning parents who want to do the best and safest things for their children and themselves, but these scenarios reflect how deeply some of this social media-driven misinformation has permeated everyday decision making,” she noted.

Among the most common myths dermatologists encounter are beliefs that sunscreen is only necessary at the beach or on sunny days, that people with darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen, that sunscreen is toxic or carcinogenic, that it blocks all vitamin D production, that natural oils provide adequate sun protection, and that people can develop “solar calluses” for natural protection.

In response to these claims, dermatologists emphasize that UV exposure is cumulative and begins in childhood, with up to 80% of UV rays penetrating clouds. They note that while skin cancer risk may be lower in patients with darker skin, these individuals still face risks of photoaging and pigmentary disorders. Despite concerns about chemical sunscreens, experts stress that approved UV filters have never shown carcinogenicity in humans, while UV radiation is a proven carcinogen.

Regarding vitamin D concerns, Dr. Kannan pointed to real-world studies showing “typical sunscreen use does not cause vitamin D deficiency.” She also emphasized that natural oils provide minimal protection, with SPF ratings of just 2-8, well below the recommended minimum of SPF 30.

The notion of developing a “solar callus” is particularly troubling to experts. “A tan does not provide protection against the sun, and there is no such thing as safe tan,” Dr. Kannan stated. “It’s better to use clothing and sunscreen for sun protection.”

To counter these dangerous myths, dermatologists are adapting their approaches both in clinical settings and online. Dr. Grossberg recommends correcting misconceptions while acknowledging patient concerns in a non-judgmental manner. Dr. Kannan suggests clinicians create engaging social media content to debunk individual myths, using trending audio formats for greater reach.

Beyond individual clinical efforts, experts advocate for broader public health initiatives, including modernized social media campaigns featuring dermatologist-backed content, promoting sun safety in schools, and implementing national UV-safety campaigns modeled on anti-tobacco efforts.

As summer approaches, dermatologists remind the public that comprehensive sun protection includes not just sunscreen but also UV-protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, seeking shade during peak sun hours, and behavioral modifications to reduce exposure to harmful rays.