TikTok users often see videos become viral and start trends but these trends aren’t always safe.

An optometrist is warning users against trying one trend called ‘sungazing’ as it could actually cause damage to a person’s eyesight.

But what is the trend and why is it dangerous? Tina Patel, a contact lens optician at Feel Good Contacts, has shared her thoughts on the trend.

What is sun gazing?

TikTok users have been sharing videos which encourage others to stare directly into the sun in a bid to improve their eyesight by taking in UVB rays.

On the video-sharing platform, the hashtag #sungazing has 76.7 million views at the time of writing.

Oxford Mail: The TikTok trend involves people staring directly into the sunThe TikTok trend involves people staring directly into the sun (Image: Canva)

The trend suggests that UVB rays have health benefits and contribute to Vitamin D production and eye health, explaining that all you have to do is stare directly into the sun following either one of two methods.

It encourages people to take out their contact lenses and stare directly at the sun for 5 to 10 seconds, during the first and last 15 minutes of sunlight of the day, building this duration up over time. 

The second trend is performed at midday and involves taking out your contact lenses and staring directly at the sun with your eyes closed.

However, UVB rays can’t penetrate glass so the TikTok trend is dangerously instructing people to remove their contact lenses before sun gazing.

Tina Patel from Feel Good Contacts warns: “There is no scientific evidence to support that sun gazing is safe. What we do know is that the sun can cause damage to the skin and eyes.” 

She adds: “Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is classified into 3 types: UVA, UVB and UVC:

  • “UVA has the longest wavelengths and can reach the lens and retina, increasing the risk of cataract and retinal eye conditions.
  • “UVB has medium wavelengths and can cause changes to the skin which can lead to skin burn and even cancer.
  • “UVC has the shortest and most damaging wavelengths. They are blocked by the earth’s atmosphere and luckily, they do not reach us directly.

“UV rays are damaging, and care must be taken when exposed to these harmful rays. It is important to protect your skin and eyes. Use sunscreen daily and wear UV-protecting sunglasses, even on cloudy days.”