In recent years, social media has brought to light some strange and unusual health trends. One of the more bizarre and controversial is the practice of “butt sunbathing,” or perineum sunning. Proponents of this trend claim that exposing the perineum, the area between the genitals and the anus, to sunlight has various health benefits, from boosting energy levels to improving sleep. But is there any truth to these claims, or is this just another internet fad? Let’s take a closer look.

What Is Perineum Sunning?

Perineum sunning, often called “butt sunbathing,” involves lying naked in the sun with your legs spread to expose the perineum to direct sunlight. The idea gained attention after influencers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok began promoting it as a way to boost health. Some believe that sunning this area for short periods can increase vitamin D absorption, improve energy and focus, and even balance hormones.

One of the most notable advocates of perineum sunning is Taoist influencer Ra of Earth, who posted a now-viral video of himself sunbathing naked with the caption, “30 seconds of sunlight on your butthole is equivalent to a full day of sunlight with your clothes on.” This bold claim, along with other influencers promoting similar messages, led to a surge of curiosity and a wave of people trying it out for themselves.

The Claimed Benefits

Advocates of perineum sunning make several claims about its health benefits. Here are some of the most commonly cited advantages:

1. 1) Increased Energy Levels: Many proponents argue that exposing the perineum to sunlight helps boost energy and vitality. They believe that this practice “charges” the body, providing a natural energy boost.
2. 2) Better Sleep: Some claim that sunning your perineum can improve sleep quality by regulating your circadian rhythm and enhancing the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep regulation.
3. 3) Improved Mood: Sunlight is known to boost serotonin levels, the so-called “happy hormone.” Advocates of perineum sunning argue that direct exposure to the sun in sensitive areas can elevate mood and even reduce symptoms of depression.
4. 4) Hormonal Balance: Proponents suggest that sunning this part of the body can help balance hormones by stimulating the endocrine system, which regulates hormone production. This claim, however, is largely anecdotal.
5. 5) Increased Vitamin D Levels: Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which plays an essential role in bone health, immune function, and mental well-being. Some believe that perineum sunning allows for a more direct and efficient absorption of vitamin D.

The Science Behind the Claims

While the benefits of vitamin D and sunlight exposure are well-documented, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that sunbathing your perineum is more effective than exposing other areas of your skin. The skin on the perineum is delicate, and there’s no research to suggest that this area absorbs vitamin D more efficiently than other parts of the body.

Experts warn that while brief sun exposure can be healthy, spending too much time in direct sunlight, especially on sensitive areas like the perineum, can lead to sunburn, skin damage, and even increase the risk of skin cancer. Dr. Diana Gall, a medical expert, has expressed concerns about the trend, stating, “There is no evidence that sunbathing your bum offers any health benefits, and overexposure to UV rays without proper protection increases your risk of skin cancer.”

The Risks of Butt Sunbathing

While advocates may claim the benefits outweigh the risks, medical professionals urge caution. Some of the risks associated with perineum sunning include:

• 1) Sunburn: The skin in the perineum area is much more sensitive than other parts of the body, making it more prone to burning. A sunburned bum is not only painful but can lead to more serious long-term skin damage.
• 2) Increased Risk of Skin Cancer: Any exposure to UV rays without protection increases your risk of developing skin cancer. Since the perineum is typically not exposed to the sun, it’s even more vulnerable to damage.
• 3) Discomfort and Injury: Given the awkward positioning required for butt sunbathing, there’s also the risk of muscle strain or injury from maintaining uncomfortable positions for too long.

Should You Try It?

While the practice of perineum sunning has caught the attention of wellness enthusiasts, experts recommend getting your daily dose of vitamin D through more conventional means, like exposing your arms and legs to the sun for 10 to 30 minutes a few times a week. This approach can provide the benefits of sunlight without the risk of overexposing sensitive areas.

Moreover, if you’re looking to improve your mood, energy, or hormonal balance, there are far more reliable methods, such as a balanced diet, exercise, and regular sunlight exposure to less sensitive skin.

Perineum sunning might seem like an intriguing, if not amusing, trend, but it’s important to approach it with caution. While advocates claim a range of health benefits, there’s no scientific evidence to back up these assertions. The risks of sunburn and skin damage far outweigh any potential advantages. For now, it’s safe to say that this wellness trend is more bollocks than fact, and sticking to tried-and-tested methods of staying healthy is a safer bet.