A study published in PLOS Digital Health analyzed nearly 1,000 sunscreen-related videos on TikTok and found that while the majority of content promotes sunscreen use, videos containing misinformation generate significantly higher user engagement than accurate posts.
Key Findings
- Researchers from the University of Alberta analyzed the 971 most-viewed videos associated with the five most popular sunscreen hashtags on TikTok as of late September 2024.
- The study reported that 86% to 87% of videos promoted sunscreen use, citing benefits such as protection from skin damage, acne, aging, and cancer.
- Approximately 6% of videos explicitly criticized sunscreen, while 7% were neutral or featured product reviews without recommendations to avoid sunscreen.
Misinformation Content
Misinformation videos, representing about 13% of the analyzed content, received significantly more likes, comments, and shares than accurate videos.
The study documented claims in these videos that:
- Sunburns are not dangerous.
- Sunscreen is toxic, causes cancer, or contains carcinogens or microplastics.
- Sunscreen taints breast milk, harms ecosystems, or acts as an endocrine disruptor.
Researchers stated that there are no scientific indications that ingredients widely used in chemical sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, are harmful to health. Both chemical and mineral sunscreens are considered safe, and the study noted that not using sunscreen is not a safer alternative.
Expert Commentary
- Dr. Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology and fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), stated that approximately 95% of sunscreen misinformation can be attributed to social media platforms, citing influencers who depict tanning practices.
- Dr. Anthony Rossi of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center commented that claims about sunscreen causing vitamin D deficiency are a narrative prevalent on social media, noting that numerous studies indicate regular daily use does not lead to deficiency.
- Dr. Molly Hales of the University of Chicago stated that both chemical and mineral sunscreen ingredients are monitored and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and undergo rigorous safety testing.
- Alessandro Marcon, lead study author, stated there is no indication that sunscreen exposes people to microplastics at higher levels than other environmental sources.
Background and Context
A survey by the AAD found that 36% of Gen Z respondents (ages 18-29) rely on influencers for skincare information, and 64% have encountered sunscreen misinformation online. The survey also reported that 33% of Gen Z respondents received a D or F grade on a sun safety quiz.
- The FDA recently approved the UV filter bemotrizinol for the U.S. market, expanding available sunscreen options.
- Dr. Garshick recommends individuals find the sunscreen that works best for them, whether chemical or mineral. Marcon advised social media users to exercise caution regarding health information encountered on platforms, particularly when it is linked to product sales or evokes strong emotional responses.