Sun callus: the latest dangerous TikTok trend that condemns the OCU

“Sun callus.” This is exactly what was dubbed the “new absurd trend”, born in the heat of social networks, about which the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) warns. “The recommendation to grow a sun callus is going viral. It involves constant exposure to the sun without protection, so that your skin develops tolerance to the sun and ultraviolet radiation,” condemns the association, which calls it a “Chinese fairy tale.” And its basis is clearly as illogical as it is dangerous. “Those who practice it claim that one must burn intensely in order for the body to resist solar radiation. They claim that once you have a sun callus done, you are already protected from sunburn, have better vitamin D synthesis and improved skin appearance,” they add.

Is there evidence to support this theory, asks the OCU? And, if there were any doubts, he clarifies: “Absolutely not. There is no such thing as a sun callus; the skin cannot develop tolerance to the sun or ultraviolet radiation. On the contrary, we know without a doubt that the sun ages the skin, causes wrinkles and spots, burns and increases the risk of skin cancer,” he states.

The problem, the organization says, is the ease with which networks like TikTok allow the spread of false beliefs that are very unhealthy. Especially among the smallest ones who may bite on these dangerous baits. “In the video there are those who say that the sun does not cause cancer: they claim that if you have a sun callus, you can get as much sun as you want without any problems, “like all animals on Earth.” It is reckless to say this. Exposure to the sun, especially long-term exposure throughout life, is a major risk factor for the development of skin cancer,” the OCU reminds.

Additionally, they note that this risk increases if any of these circumstances occur:

-If you get a blistering sunburn, especially as a child.

– If you use a tanning booth with UVA rays.

– If you have a family history

– If you have previously had skin cancer or have received any dermatological treatment such as radiation therapy, ionizing radiation for acne, or PUVA rays for psoriasis.

– If you have a large number of moles, both common and atypical or congenital.

To avoid sunburn, the consumer association recommends following a number of measures:

– In midsummer, avoid exposing yourself to the sun in the middle of the day or when the UV index is very high.

– Use a good sunscreen. At OCU we will help you choose the most suitable sunscreens.

– When you are not in the shade, protect yourself by wearing a hat, sunglasses and covering yourself with clothing.

If you have already been burned, here are the recommendations that OCU specialists advise you to follow:

– No home remedies such as using potatoes, tomatoes, milk, vinegar, olive oil… There is no evidence that they provide any benefit and may be counterproductive.

– Use fresh water. Apply cool or warm water compresses to the burned area, or take a shower and let the water drain for a few minutes.

-Also drink plenty of water in small sips to avoid dehydration.

– Apply moisturizer to relieve discomfort from erythema, but not antihistamine ointments.

– Be careful with perfume or soap on the damaged area of ​​the skin. Be careful of possible allergic or sensitizing reactions.

– If you have a lot of pain or fever, you can take paracetamol. And if the situation worsens, pain and discomfort persists or is accompanied by fever, nausea, vomiting, weak or rapid pulse, confusion… do not hesitate to seek medical help.

– Of course, let’s forget about the sun for a few days. When the situation returns to normal, be careful with the sun: limited and gradual exposure, and use a sunscreen with a high protection factor.