As summer approaches, more people are spending time outside. Whether it is pool days, sports practices, walks with friends, beach trips, or simply laying outside with music playing, being in the sun becomes part of everyday life during warmer months. For many teenagers, those moments outside can feel relaxing, peaceful, and like a break from the stress of school and responsibilities.
But while tanning culture has remained popular online and in everyday life, dermatologists and health organizations continue stressing the importance of sunscreen and skin protection. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, regular sunscreen use can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer and protect skin from long-term damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays.
More Time Outside Means More Sun Exposure
Although tanning is often associated with summer, not everyone spending time in the sun is intentionally trying to tan. Many students simply forget sunscreen or do not think about it during everyday activities.
“I honestly don’t even think about sunscreen unless I’m going to the beach,” said Lilly Reefe, a junior at Urbana High School. “If I’m outside hanging out with friends or driving around with the windows down, it doesn’t cross my mind.”
Another student, Maddie Koening, said she spends a lot of time outdoors during summer without realizing how long she has been in the sun. “Sometimes I’ll just sit outside listening to music for hours because it helps me relax. I’m not necessarily trying to tan; it just happens.”
Health experts say UV exposure adds up over time, even during normal daily activities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most skin cancers are linked to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
The Influence of Beauty Standards
At the same time, tanning culture still plays a major role online. Bronzed skin has long been associated with attractiveness and confidence, and social media continues pushing the idea of the “perfect summer glow.” Recent reporting from the New York Post has shown tanning trends becoming increasingly popular again among Gen Z users online.
“There’s definitely pressure to look tan during the summer,” said Emma Haflett. “You go online and everyone looks perfect and sun-kissed all the time.”
For some students, being outside is tied more to mental health and relaxation than appearance.
“After school I like sitting outside with headphones on because it helps me reset,” said Hannah Wright. “It’s one of the only times I feel fully relaxed.”
The Cleveland Clinic explains that tanning occurs when the skin reacts to UV damage by producing more pigment. Even without visible burns, too much sun exposure can still damage skin cells over time.
A Shift Toward Awareness
Even with tanning trends continuing online, conversations around skincare and sunscreen have also become more common. More students are beginning to see sunscreen as part of self-care rather than something only worn at the beach.
“I never used to wear sunscreen because I thought it would stop me from tanning,” said Carlin Webster, a sophomore. “Now I still wear it sometimes because I realized you can still be outside and enjoy summer while protecting your skin.”
According to Dr. Susan Massick, a dermatologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, sunscreen is
important even on days people are not intentionally tanning because UV exposure builds up gradually over time. Dermatologists say daily sun protection can help lower the risk of premature aging, sun damage, and skin cancer later in life.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapplying it throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating.
As summer gets closer, students will continue finding ways to enjoy the sun, whether that means tanning intentionally, spending time with friends, or simply relaxing outdoors. Health experts say sunscreen is not about avoiding summer altogether. It is about protecting skin while still enjoying it.
