Cheeky Bikinis, Big Sun Risks: Dermatologists Warn UV-Naive Skin Needs Protection

Dermatologists warn that minimal-coverage bikini cuts expose skin that has rarely or never seen sun (such as the lower buttocks and posterior thighs), potentially increasing melanoma risk as intermittent, high-intensity UV exposure replaces prior patterns. Past studies linked bikini wear to higher trunk melanoma risk and show that melanoma risk tracks clothing and activity, with UV-naive skin possibly following distinct cancer pathways. Misinformation about sun safety among Gen Z and ongoing fashion trends make full-body skin checks and precautionary sunscreen or UPF coverups especially important, with case examples of melanoma arising in unexamined, sun-exposed areas.