In the age of relatively new viral beauty hacks, “sunscreen contouring” has become a thing of the moment on TikTok and Instagram. The process involves applying sunscreen to certain select areas of the face—on high points like the bridge of the nose, cheekbones, and forehead—aiming to tan the rest intentionally and achieve just that effect as though one had done proper makeup contouring on. Is this safe? Dermatologists share their worries and advise.

Is Sunscreen Contouring Safe?

Sunscreen contouring is a cheap DIY beauty trick where individuals selectively apply SPF to the high points while leaving the low ones exposed to energize tanning naturally. The idea is to achieve a sculpted look without any bronzer or any contour makeup.

The Dermatologists Raise the Red Flag

This procedure is highly discouraged by skin experts. Dr. Neha Sharma, a Delhi-based dermatologist, states, “There is nothing like a safe tan. Whatever is limited sun exposure without protection will damage your skin cells eventually and leads to skin cancer, pigmentation, and premature aging.”

Melanin is the pigment giving coloration to the skin, and it increases due to UV damage. So tanning, however subtle, is an indication of skin stress.

The Risks That Come With Putting SPF Selectively

Thus, not applying sunscreen all over the face increases the chances of sunburn, uneven pigmentation, as well as long-term damage by photoaging. UV radiations promote collagen breakdown and accelerate wrinkle formation, giving skin a dull appearance.

In addition, if the SPF is not uniformly applied with perfect blending, then such results can be adversarial and becomes more damaging.

Some Safer Alternatives to Consider

Use bronzing makeup or self-tanners for a contoured effect instead of damaging your skin. These are considered to offer that contoured look without the UV exposure or long-term damage.

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Sunscreen contouring may ache temporary aesthetic pleasure, but it comes with skin risk. Dermatologists are in agreement: Never skip making an even application of sunscreen all over your face and body. There is no beauty trend which deserves to come at the expense of one’s long-term skin health.

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