Sun Exposure & Testosterone: Debunking the Viral Trend

A concerning trend of misinformation regarding sun protection is gaining traction, particularly among young adults, according to recent findings. While public health campaigns have long emphasized the importance of sunscreen and limiting sun exposure to prevent skin cancer, a growing number of individuals are embracing unsubstantiated claims circulating on social media platforms like TikTok.

A recent national survey, conducted by Rajesh Nair, an oncology surgeon at the Orlando Health Cancer Institute, revealed that 14% of adults aged 18 to 35 believe the risks of sunscreen outweigh the dangers of sun exposure. As of today, February 18, 2026, this represents a significant public health concern, as melanoma rates are increasing in younger populations. “People buy into a lot of really dangerous ideas that put them at added risk,” Nair told Newsweek. “The main concerning information I see disseminated is that the downsides of sunscreen are so terrible, It’s better to put yourself at a very high risk not only for melanoma but multiple other skin cancers.”

The rise of these beliefs coincides with a broader trend of health misinformation online. Influencers are promoting ideas such as the benefits of “sun tanning” and questioning the established science behind sunscreen efficacy. Some posts suggest that increased sun exposure can actually *reduce* the risk of sunburn, a claim directly refuted by dermatologists. Others promote unproven methods of sun protection, like the idea that drinking water prevents sunburn – a belief held by nearly one in four under-35s surveyed by Nair’s team. “There is no scientific data suggesting that drinking water provides any protection from the sun,” Nair stated.

The dangers of this misinformation are substantial. Skin cancer remains the most common form of cancer in the United States, with approximately 3 million diagnoses annually, according to the American Cancer Society. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, has seen a steady increase in incidence since 1999, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While the risk of melanoma generally increases with age, it is now the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in individuals between the ages of 25 and 39.

The spread of these false narratives isn’t limited to questioning sunscreen. Another concerning trend, documented in a study published in JMIR Dermatology in September 2022, involves “testicle tanning” – the practice of exposing the scrotum to direct sunlight. Researchers found that this practice, promoted in online communities advocating for “hormonal optimization” and increased testosterone levels, lacks any medical basis. The study highlights a broader pattern of individuals seeking alternative, unproven methods to influence their health based on information found online.

Experts emphasize that ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a “proven human carcinogen,” causing various types of skin cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. The claims circulating on social media that the sun does not cause skin cancer are demonstrably false and contradict decades of scientific research.

The situation is further complicated by the promotion of “natural” sun protection alternatives. While seeking natural approaches to health is understandable, there is currently no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of these methods as a substitute for proven sun protection strategies.

To mitigate the risks associated with these trends, health professionals recommend adhering to established sun safety guidelines. These include limiting sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when UV radiation is most intense, and consistently using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Seeking shade and wearing protective clothing, such as hats and long sleeves, are also crucial components of a comprehensive sun protection plan.

The current surge in misinformation underscores the importance of critical thinking and reliable sources of health information. Individuals should be wary of claims made by non-medical professionals on social media and consult with qualified healthcare providers for accurate guidance on sun protection and skin cancer prevention. The increasing incidence of melanoma in younger adults serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of ignoring established medical advice and embracing unsubstantiated online trends.