'Tanmaxxing' is trending on TikTok. Dermatologists are not fans

While K-beauty feeds are full of SPF reapplication hacks, another corner of TikTok is doing the opposite. Tanmaxxing means deliberately maximising sun exposure to get as dark as possible.

What the trend involves, per a July 2026 report:

• Spending time outside during peak UV hours
• Using carrot oil or drinking carrot juice in the belief it speeds up tanning

What dermatologists quoted in the piece say:

• There is no safe tan: darkening skin is a sign of UV injury
• Repeated exposure raises the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma, and speeds up visible ageing
• UV can trigger feel-good beta-endorphins, which may make the habit compulsive for some people
• Platforms can spread niche behaviour quickly to younger audiences

It is a striking contrast with Korean beauty culture, where many people treat daily sunscreen as non-negotiable.

Have you seen this trend in your feed? How do you talk to friends who love tanning?

#Sunscreen #SunSafety #SkincareTrends

Source: Medical Daily — TikTok's Latest Beauty Obsession May Be the Most Dangerous Yet, Skin Experts Say