The Return of the Tan: Why Gen Z is Chasing the Sun Glow - And How To Do This With Minimal Damage

It’s official: the tan is back. Scroll through TikTok or Instagram, and you’ll see bronzed 20-somethings showing their “sun-kissed” skin, swapping SPF for tanning oils, and even broadcasting live from tanning beds. Despite years of public health campaigns around the world and the well-documented risks—premature aging, brown spots, and, most concerning, skin cancer—tanning is having a cultural renaissance.

As a dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon, I see the fallout daily: chronic sunburns, stubborn hyperpigmentation, the telltale leathery texture of photoaged skin, and sometimes early-onset skin cancers. I do understand the appeal—tanning offers a quick confidence boost, feels good, and gives a sense of control in a chaotic world. But the long-term consequences are real and, often, irreversible.

Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate and even reverse some of the visible damage. Antioxidants are your skin’s best defense against the oxidative stress caused by UV exposure. My go-to regimen for patients recovering from chronic tanning includes daily use of Glow C Serum, which delivers a potent dose of vitamin C to brighten and repair sun-damaged skin. Pair this with Green Tea & Caffeine Lotion, a powerhouse blend that calms inflammation, neutralizes free radicals, and supports the skin’s natural barrier.

Cleansing is equally important. The Green Tea Cleanser gently removes impurities while infusing the skin with polyphenols that help repair UV-induced damage. For the delicate eye area—often the first to show signs of sun damage—Caffeine Eye Complex reduces puffiness and targets fine lines with a concentrated blend of antioxidants.

The bottom line: while the tan may be trending, healthy, resilient skin never goes out of style. If you’re looking to undo the effects of too much sun, start with a targeted antioxidant routine. Your future self will thank you.