The French government is taking decisive action against a rising TikTok trend that promotes dangerous sun exposure practices among young users. Officials have called on national regulator ARCOM to investigate the platform’s handling of the trend under the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA), citing serious public health concerns.
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What Is the Harmful TikTok Trend?
The viral trend, dubbed the “Haltenc Tan Line” challenge, encourages users—particularly young girls—to intentionally expose themselves to the sun to create defined tan or “burn” lines. These videos have gained widespread popularity, but health experts warn that this behavior can lead to sunburns, long-term skin damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
French Ministers Sound the Alarm
French Health Minister Yanik Neon and Digital Minister Clara Chappaz have voiced strong concerns over the trend. In a formal letter to ARCOM (the national audiovisual and digital regulator), the ministers called for immediate action to ensure TikTok complies with EU content moderation laws, particularly regarding the safety of minors and the transparency of algorithmic amplification.
The ministers stated that such content directly threatens public health and urged ARCOM to assess TikTok’s legal compliance under the Digital Services Act. If violations are confirmed, a case could be escalated to the European Commission.
Background: France’s Ongoing Scrutiny of TikTok
This is not the first time the French government has challenged TikTok over harmful content. In April 2025, TikTok faced backlash over the “Skintok” trend, which promoted unhealthy body image and extreme dieting. Following pressure from French officials, TikTok eventually banned the “Skintok” hashtag.
The current concern over the “Haltenc” trend is seen as part of a broader push by European governments to hold tech platforms accountable for the spread of toxic content affecting vulnerable populations.
Public and Expert Reactions
Public response to the trend has been mixed.
- Health professionals have condemned the content, warning of the increased risk of melanoma, sun poisoning, and premature aging.
- Social media users have criticized TikTok for failing to regulate content that glamorizes self-harm.
- Some TikTok creators argue that the trend is “harmless fun,” but critics counter that such content normalizes dangerous behavior, particularly for impressionable minors.
The French public and child safety advocates have applauded the government’s proactive stance, increasing pressure on TikTok to reinforce content moderation and better protect its user base.
What Happens Next?
The next steps involve ARCOM conducting a formal investigation into TikTok’s compliance with the Digital Services Act. If the platform is found to be in breach of EU rules, it could face hefty penalties and mandatory corrective actions imposed by the European Commission.
The French government has signaled its commitment to working with EU partners to demand greater transparency from TikTok and ensure the well-being of young users across Europe.
Conclusion
As digital platforms like TikTok continue to shape youth culture, governments are under increasing pressure to regulate harmful trends that threaten public health. France’s latest intervention is a clear reminder that online safety is no longer optional—it is a legal obligation.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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