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ikTok has become the epicenter of new crazes that sweep across the world. With the platform, it’s possible to get hooked on trends that emerge at any moment. But the thing is that as much as we love to partake in trends, not all trends are helpful, like the Tan Dysmorphia filter. So what is it and why isn’t it such a good idea?
What’s the Tan Dysmorphia filter trend?
@teawithmd #stitch with @bright.eyesss tanningcan be associated with body dysmorphic disorder, similar to what this creator mentions as tanning dysphoria. These patients think that their skin is still pale, no matter how tan their skin gets. We know that tanning can be addicting, as your body releases endorphins when the UV radiation hits your skin. However, we also know that tanning increases your risk of developing skin cancer and photo aging. It’s important to be aware of the effects of tanning on body image, so patients can recognize And then seek help. Source PMID: 16779685 dedermbyparkatanningsalonatanningsalonatandbddobodysmorphiaa#tanningbed
♬ original sound – Dr. Joyce Dermatologist
Tan Dysmorphia, in simple terms, refers to a phenomenon where individuals feel insecure about their skin and become fixated on achieving a darker tan. On TikTok, this trend was marked by the use of a filter that started with a ghostly white effect and gradually transformed the user’s appearance into a deep tan. Although the filter has since been removed, its impact is still being felt. But what’s the draw, and why were people so captivated by something quite cringe?
The Tan Dysmorphia filter on TikTok provided a temporary escape from the insecurities people may feel about their natural skin tone. It created this fantasy world where everyone can experience the perceived benefits of being tan, even if only through the lens of a smartphone camera. But there’s more to this than a TikTok filter.
Tan Dysmorphia vs. Body Dysmorphic Disorder
@fallanlanham Feel better alreadyyyy #fyp
♬ dance by deyluvkirby – KiRBY
Tan Dysmorphia, though trending as a social media challenge, has an underlying connection to Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). BDD is a mental health condition where individuals obsess over perceived flaws in their physical appearance. While Tan Dysmorphia may not be as severe as full-fledged BDD, it shares similarities in the way it makes people overly conscious of their appearance. The danger here is that many who participate in this filter trend might not even be aware of the potential harm they’re causing themselves.
What experts have to say about tanning
@cobywatts_ Signs of Body Dysmorphia! Comment ❤️ if you have anything like this #bodysysmorphia #adhd #bodydysmorphiacheck #bodydysmorphicdisorder #mentalhealth
♬ We like to Party! (The Vengabus) – More Airplay – Vengaboys
You might still feel like this trend is some harmless fun, but it can lead to something more bad. Firstly, it can affect your mental well-being by making you crave a skin tone that isn’t real, which could lead you to be displeased with your natural complexion. Secondly, this trend may inspire users to opt for a tan, and experts say a big NO to tanning.
Owing to the pressure to conform to beauty standards, unhealthy tanning practices, such as excessive sun exposure or the use of tanning beds, are still options for many. However, these practices are known to increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Simply put, the Tan Dysmorphia trend could potentially affect you both physically and mentally, and that’s a red flag.
What does body acceptance have to do with it?
Instead of falling into the trap of Tan Dysmorphia, we should promote body acceptance and self-love. Every skin tone is beautiful. None is better than the other, and there is no one-size-fits-all definition of beauty. It’s crucial to recognize that our worth goes beyond our physical appearance and skin color. TikTok and other social media platforms have the power to influence perceptions of beauty, and as users, we should tread with caution.
It’s so easy to get caught up in the latest trends without considering their impact. Tan Dysmorphia may have captured our screens and promised a world of fun but it’s essential to take a step back to reflect on the consequences of such trends. If the doctors and dermatologists say tanning isn’t good for you, what’s the need to do it? And if a trend could hurt the way you perceive yourself, why engage in it? Let’s encourage self-acceptance, embrace our natural beauty, and remember that true beauty comes from within.
Featured image: Jacob Wackerhausen/iStock
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