There’s a new skincare trend sweeping social media—and it’s not as smart as it sounds. Tweens and teens are now using the UV index to decide when to intentionally tan. On the surface, it seems scientific. But underneath? It’s seriously unsafe.

What’s the Trend?

Influencers are checking the daily UV index, especially when it’s high (8–11), and using it as a “green light” to tan, often with minimal or no sunscreen. Some even plan “UV breaks” in their day to catch max sun exposure.

Why That’s Risky

• The UV index measures radiation strength. High UV = high skin damage risk.
• Tanning is skin trauma. Every “golden glow” is your body trying to protect itself.
• Most tweens don’t realize the long-term harm. One blistering sunburn in youth doubles the risk of melanoma later in life.

What the UV Index Should Tell You

• When to apply (and reapply) SPF.
• When to wear a hat, cover up, or seek shade.
• How to protect sensitive, still-developing skin.

What to Do Instead

Protect, don’t roast.

At Pipa, our mineral sunscreen is:

• Safe for young, sensitive skin
• Mess-free and easy to apply (no white cast!)
• Made to build healthy sun habits early

In short

Knowing the UV index is smart. Using it to plan a tanning session? Not so much. Let’s teach tweens how to glow the safe way.