Heartland dermatologist explains dangerous ‘tanmaxxing’ trend
A new social media trend called 'tanmaxxing' encourages young people to seek deep, rapid sunburns to achieve a dark tan. Dermatologists warn that this behavior significantly increases the risk of melanoma and permanent skin damage.
Why it matters
The rise of dangerous viral trends on social media poses a direct threat to public health, particularly among younger demographics who may prioritize aesthetic trends over long-term medical safety.
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (Heartland News) - A new trend is pushing young people to once again do the opposite of what health authorities advise.
“ Tanmaxxing ” aims to get the fastest and deepest burn possible in order to achieve the darkest tan.
It has some monitoring the UV index to purposely expose themselves to ultraviolet radiation.
The trend comes as rates of deadly skin cancer, melanoma, are up in adults under 35.
Dr. Allison Sindle, a board-certified dermatologist, said the trend is more than concerning.
“It’s terrifying, absolutely terrifying,” Dr. Sindle said. “The rates of melanoma are increasing significantly, so going out and trying to get the biggest tan or the biggest burn, it’s just increasing that risk even more.”
Health authorities say teens who get even one severe sunburn can have a higher risk of cancer later in life.
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