17-05-2025
MPs to target online personalities spouting anti-suncream misinformation as 'dangerous' movement grips TikTok
Social media influencers who spout anti-suncream messages and plug potentially dangerous tanning products are set to face a crackdown by MPs.
A parliamentary inquiry will target TikTok and Instagram personalities who do paid promotions for oils and lotions without including their health risks.
It will also call for greater regulator powers to curb influencers peddling sun protection factor (SPF) conspiracy theories, push for health warnings on oils and sunbeds, and look at the affordability of SPF products and advocate for them to be exempt from VAT.
It comes as an anti-suncream movement has gained traction on TikTok, with viral posts claiming sun protection is the same as 'rubbing cancer into your skin'.
Some TikTok stars have even posted recipes for 'DIY suncream', which experts warn may not properly protect against damaging UV light.
MPs are calling for the Advertising Standards Authority to be empowered to tackle the messages put out by 'dangerous' social media influencers, saying that the current regulations have not kept up with the modern world.
The British Beauty Council, which is backing the campaign and is set to give its recommendations to the
Government and industry next year, said: 'Misinformation and disinformation are rife across media platforms with little challenge or recourse.'
Labour MP Carolyn Harris, who chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Beauty and Wellbeing, said: 'It is vital that the public understands the dangers of UV, and the risks that they are taking to get a tan.'
She added the inquiry will look at the risk and 'impact of over-exposure' to sunlight as well as how to educate people on the subject to 'prevent a public health crisis'.
