Risks of the ‘Tanmaxxing’ Trend Highlighted by Experts

Summer activities are reaching new extremes with the trend of ‘tanmaxxing.’ This social media craze pushes people to increase their sun exposure and achieve deep tans using products like oils, bronzers, and gels. Particularly popular with Gen Z, this practice often involves forgoing sun protection to get those dramatic tan lines.

While enjoying time outdoors can elevate your mood and support vitamin D production, dermatologists caution against the risks associated with excessive sun exposure. Dr. Michael Tassavor, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York, stresses that there is ‘no such thing as a safe, natural tan.’ He explains that a tan indicates skin distress and DNA damage already in progress.

“Tanning is damage,” Dr. Tassavor stated. “‘Tanfluencers’ label a deep tan as a ‘wellness upgrade,’ but it’s actually your skin’s visible distress signal.”

Dr. Tassavor, who specializes in skin cancer treatment, mentions that many patients who have tried tanmaxxing eventually regret their decision. He highlights that individuals using a tanning bed before 35 years old face an increased melanoma risk of about 75%. This statistic aligns with the World Health Organization’s classification of UV radiation and tanning beds as Group 1 carcinogens, putting them in the same category as tobacco and asbestos.

The dermatologist warned, “The damage accumulates quietly and becomes apparent years later, by then it might be too late to intervene effectively.”

Misconceptions about tanmaxxing can be harmful. Dr. Tassavor explains that skipping sunscreen won’t lead to a better tan, and a base tan offers no protection against future sunburns. He adds, “Most of your vitamin D can come from dietary sources and supplements; your skin can get enough from normal everyday exposure.”

Despite sunlight not being the enemy, unguarded pursuit of tanning is unnecessary. Dr. Tassavor recommends using SPF 30 sunscreen, applied every two hours, to safely enjoy the sun. He strongly advises against the use of tanning beds, citing no safe levels of UV exposure and noting their tendency to accelerate skin aging.

Angelica Stabile covers lifestyle topics for Fox News Digital.