Summer’s latest social media obsession, known as “tanmaxxing,” is raising alarms among dermatologists. The trend, driven largely by Gen Z creators, pushes participants to maximize sun exposure for deeper tans—often while skipping sunscreen or using tanning beds.

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michael Tassavor, based in New York, described the practice as dangerous, saying there is “no such thing as a safe, natural tan.” Speaking to Fox News Digital, he explained that tanning represents visible skin damage. “Tanfluencers sell a deep tan as a ‘wellness upgrade,’ but a tan isn’t a glow-up — it’s your skin’s visible distress signal that DNA damage has already happened,” he said.

Dermatologist Dr. Jody Levine echoed similar warnings during a Wellness Week segment on “Fox & Friends.” She discussed the importance of sun protection and clarified that a “base tan” provides minimal defense against burns or long-term harm.

The tanmaxxing craze has gained traction online as influencers showcase sunbathing routines, dramatic tan lines, and beach setups. Some participants mix various oils, bronzers, and gels to deepen their tans faster while claiming that sunlight offers health benefits.

Here's What They're Not Telling You About Your Retirement

Although moderate sunlight can support vitamin D production and improve mood, specialists stress that excessive exposure can dramatically raise skin cancer risk. Tassavor said he has treated countless cases related to such habits, noting that many patients “regret it” years later.

The World Health Organization has classified ultraviolet radiation and tanning beds as Group 1 carcinogens, placing them in the same category as tobacco and asbestos. Tassavor emphasized that using a tanning bed before age 35 can raise melanoma risk by about 75%.

He added that tanning damage “compounds silently and shows up years later, once the easy window to intervene has closed.” For that reason, dermatologists continue to push for early prevention and consistent sunscreen use.

Two widespread misconceptions, according to Tassavor, drive much of the trend’s appeal. The first is that sunscreen interferes with achieving a good tan. The second is that a base tan offers protection against sunburns. Both, he said, are false.

This Could Be the Most Important Video Gun Owners Watch All Year

Tassavor also addressed vitamin D concerns, pointing out that most of what the body needs can come from diet or supplements. “Most of your vitamin D can come from diet and supplements, and your skin is efficient enough to top up what it needs from ordinary incidental exposure,” he explained.

He clarified that while vitamin D is critical for bone health and sunlight can improve mood, there is no scientific need to seek extra exposure for those reasons. Likewise, consistent sunscreen use has not been shown to undermine bone strength or vitamin D levels.

For people still eager to enjoy the outdoors, Tassavor advised using SPF 30 sunscreen and reapplying every two hours. He urged the public to avoid tanning beds “entirely,” since there is “no safe dose” of ultraviolet light.

Experts continue to warn that viewing extreme tanning as a symbol of wellness could carry serious long-term consequences. The message, they say, is not to fear the sun but to respect it and protect skin consistently.