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Perineum sunning or butthole sunning is a wellness practice that involves exposing the perineum (area between the genitals and anus) to sunlight. Adherents claim various unproven health benefits such as improved libido, circulation, sleep, and longevity. There is no scientific evidence that this behavior promotes any of the alleged benefits. The practice of exposing a sensitive area of skin to sunlight also increases the risk of skin cancers. Safer alternatives such as relaxation, meditation, and mindfulness actually can achieve the same benefits.
An analysis of internet search trends in JMIR Dermatology concluded:
On 29 November 2019, actor Josh Brolin posted a strong warning against the practice on Instagram, writing "My pucker hole is crazy burned and I was going to spend the day shopping with my family and instead I'm icing and using aloe and burn creams because of the severity of the pain."
A resurgence of viral interest on TikTok in perineum sunning occurred in 2022, with a proliferation of influencers and videos claiming unsubstantiated health benefits.
A 2023 peer-reviewed analysis published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found no clinical evidence supporting the health claims made by proponents of perineum sunning, such as improved energy or hormonal regulation. The authors noted a surge in online interest following media coverage and emphasized the potential dangers of UV exposure to sensitive skin areas. They concluded that while public engagement was high, the practice was "non–evidence-based" and posed "significant dermatologic risk."
Board-certified dermatologists cited in mainstream media share these concerns, stating that there is "no evidence to suggest that sunning the perineum has any effect on physical well-being", saying further that vitamin D synthesis can occur with safer, more conventional sun exposure, such as on the arms and face. They describe the viral popularity of perineum sunning as an example of "social media misinformation" and warn that individuals attempting the practice could be at risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
The perineal area is also particularly vulnerable to sun damage. The skin in this region is thinner and typically not acclimated to UV exposure, which may increase the risk of photodamage or skin cancers. Dermatologists warn of the potential for sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and elevated cancer risk when exposing such areas to direct sunlight without protection; risks include melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal-cell carcinoma.
Doctors recommend safer alternative options such as relaxation, meditation, and mindfulness, which can actually achieve the alleged benefits of perineum sunning.
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