Sunscreen is a popular topic, especially on TikTok where skincare routines and beauty trends are all the rage and where the hashtag with the same name has been used more than 6.7 million times.
With vast numbers of influencers sharing their recommendations, tips, and advice, how do you know what to believe?
Let’s bust some myths and share the facts about sunscreen with help from Dr Sidra Khan, a consultant dermatologist and spokesperson for the British Skin Foundation.
Is sunscreen bad for you?
A quick search on TikTok for sunscreen will bring up posts, some of which have had millions of views, offering advice on everything from the best products, how and when to use them, and more worryingly, reasons as to why people should avoid wearing sunscreen.
Anti-sunscreen videos have had hundreds of thousands of views on TikTok, with the movement questioning its effectiveness, including claims that the ingredients used are often toxic. However, evidence suggests that the ingredients used in UK, EU or US-approved suncreams are safe and effective, and any potential harm is outweighed by their benefits in protecting people from UV (ultraviolet radiation) - a form of energy the sun emits.
Strict safety laws and regulations cover all cosmetic products in the UK – this includes sunscreens. The NHS says one of the best ways to protect yourself against skin cancer is by wearing sunscreen.
Anti-sunscreen posts may spark your interest and be tempting to share, which is why they often spread so quickly. However, you may unknowingly be sharing misinformation – inaccurate or false information spread by people who think it's true.
The myths and the facts
1. Sunscreen can be beneficial in winter - TRUE
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that UV levels are at their highest on clear, cloudless days. While cloud cover can decrease exposure, light clouds and prolonged time spent in open shade can still cause sunburn for sensitive individuals, especially on days with high UV levels.
Dr Khan said: "Even when it is cold or cloudy, UVA rays are present all year round, and these can contribute to skin cancer risk, skin ageing and pigmentation. For teens, this is especially relevant if you are prone to dark marks after spots or use acne treatments that make skin more sun-sensitive. A simple way to think about it is this; if the UV index is 3 or above - so check the weather app on your phone - wear sunscreen!"
2. Black people don’t need SPF - FALSE
Darker skin has some protection against UV rays, but as Cancer Research UK highlights, anyone can get sunburnt including people with darker skin. The NHS recommends that people should still avoid burning and take care in the sun as people of all skin tones can get skin cancer.
Dr Khan agreed: "This is a myth. Darker skin contains more melanin, which gives some natural UV protection, and UV-related skin cancer is much less common in deeply pigmented skin than in lighter skin tones. However, sunscreen is still very useful because it helps reduce the risk of sunburn, worsening pigmentation, and dark marks left after acne or eczema, which are common concerns for people with darker skin tones.
"So while the main reason for using sunscreen may not always be skin cancer prevention, all skin tones can benefit from sunscreen."
3. You need to reapply sunscreen - TRUE
According to the British Skin Foundation, 67% of people are under applying their sunscreen. The NHS recommends reapplying sunscreen every two hours. The SPF number on a bottle of sunscreen refers to how much UVB it allows in. A sunscreen with SPF 15 allows about 7% of the sun's rays to reach your skin.
Dr Khan said: "Yes, sunscreen needs to be reapplied if you are outdoors. It naturally rubs off with sweat, touching your face, sport, swimming, or even just moving around during the day. A good rule to follow is to reapply every two hours when outside, and again after PE, sweating, or swimming. This is important because sunscreen only works properly if enough remains on the skin."
Are there any other sunscreen myths?
Other Side of the Story asked Dr Khan if there were any other myths involving sunscreen she was aware of. Here are three of them.
If it's cloudy, you don't need sunscreen
"This is another very common myth I hear, especially in the UK", said Dr Khan. "UV rays can still pass through clouds, so you can still burn or trigger pigmentation even when it does not feel sunny.
"People often judge the weather by temperature, but UV damage is about radiation, not heat. That means cool, cloudy days can still be high-risk for exposed skin."The SPF in make up is enough
Dr Khan said: "Usually, no. Most people do not apply enough foundation or tinted moisturiser to achieve the SPF written on the label.
"SPF makeup is best thought of as a helpful extra layer, rather than your main sun protection. For proper coverage, it is still best to use a dedicated sunscreen underneath your make up in adequate amounts."Sunscreen makes acne worse
"Modern sunscreens are designed in lightweight formulas that do not need to clog pores.
"In fact, sunscreen is especially important in acne-prone skin because it helps prevent post-acne marks from becoming darker and lasting longer. Choosing a gel, fluid, or oil-free sunscreen can make this feel easier."
As with all advice on social media, check that it comes from trusted sources. Develop a critical mindset, do your own research, and consider more than one point of view.
Brush up on your fact and fake spotting skills by challenging yourself to get full marks on our fake news quiz.
This article was updated in April 2026
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