Misinformation regarding sunscreen is widespread on TikTok, with many users promoting the idea that sunscreen is harmful, a new study has cautioned. Despite representing a smaller portion of the platform’s content related to sun protection, videos sowing doubt about sunscreen have garnered significantly higher audience engagement, including more likes, comments, and shares, compared to those supporting its use.
Study Examines TikTok Sunscreen Content
The study, published in PLOS Digital Health, analyzed 971 of the most-viewed sunscreen-related videos on TikTok in late September 2024. Researchers aimed to examine the prevalence, engagement levels, and characteristics of misinformation surrounding sunscreen on the social media platform.
Contrary to the claims made in some videos, researchers stated, “There are currently no scientific indications that any ingredient widely used in ‘chemical’ sunscreens (e.g. oxybenzone) is harmful to one’s health.” They further clarified that while consumers might prefer mineral or ‘natural’ sunscreens over ‘chemical’ ones, both types are considered safe. The study emphasized that not using sunscreen is never a safer option than using a chemical sunscreen during sun exposure.
Claims Against Sunscreen and Engagement Metrics
Some TikTok creators have alleged that sunscreen acts as an endocrine disruptor, affects hormone balance, contaminates breastmilk, contains microplastics, or has other “toxic” and “unsafe” ingredients. Other claims extended to alleged damage to ecosystems.
The study found that the majority of videos, approximately 86%, promoted sunscreen for its benefits in protecting against skin damage, acne, aging, and cancer. In contrast, only 6% of the videos contained critiques of sunscreen. An additional 7% of videos were categorized as neutral or basic product reviews without an explicit recommendation against sunscreen use.
Dermatologists Link Misinformation to Social Media
The findings come as public understanding of sun safety appears to be lacking. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nearly half of all Americans scored a “C” or lower on its sun safety quiz, despite over half of respondents rating their own sun protection habits positively. Among Gen Z individuals aged 18-29, 33% received a “D” or “F” on the quiz.
Dr. Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York and a fellow at the AAD, suggested that social media is a primary driver of this misinformation. “I would say 95% of the misinformation we can attribute to social media,” Dr. Garshick told NBC News. She noted that this could be due to direct claims about sunscreen problems or indirect influence, such as influencers showcasing prolonged sun exposure.
Mitchell Landsberg is the senior reporter for News Raise and focuses on Technology. Mitchell regularly writes about social media platforms and how influencers, industry and general people use them to communicate and make money.
