Updated

Updated · eMarketer · Jun 24

Study Finds 971 TikToks Expose Gen Z to Sunscreen Myths as False Posts Draw More Engagement

Updated

Updated · eMarketer · Jun 24

Study Finds 971 TikToks Expose Gen Z to Sunscreen Myths as False Posts Draw More Engagement

2 articles · Updated · eMarketer · Jun 24

University of Alberta researchers found sunscreen misinformation was uncommon among 971 top-viewed TikToks, but misleading videos drew more likes, shares and comments than accurate sun-safety posts.
Gen Z faces the highest exposure because TikTok ranks as its top social platform for health information, while 36% say influencers are their main source of skincare advice.
One-third of Gen Z respondents earned a D or F on sun-safety knowledge in an American Academy of Dermatology survey, with gaps including beliefs that tans are harmless and limited awareness that sunscreen helps prevent premature aging.
Clinicians appeared in just 8% of the TikTok videos studied, even as one dermatologist told NBC News that 95% of misleading sun-safety information originates on social media.
With summer starting, the findings point brands and dermatologists toward more on-camera, myth-debunking TikTok content focused on immediate benefits such as avoiding sunburn and clearer skin.

Sources

With dermatologists nearly absent on TikTok, who is responsible for protecting Gen Z from dangerous viral health myths?

As viral misinformation erodes trust, how can the $19 billion suncare industry prove its products are actually effective?

A new study suggests moderate sun at work may lower melanoma risk. Does everyone truly need to wear sunscreen every day?

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