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Health, Longevity & Biohacking

Dermatologist Claims Sunlight Exposure Acts Like Natural Drug Through Endorphin Release

By Egleze Editorial Desk · Published June 14, 2026 · ZOE Science & Nutrition · Most replayed moment: How to Balance Sunlight and Suncream | Professor John McGrath
Dermatologist Claims Sunlight Exposure Acts Like Natural Drug Through Endorphin Release
ZOE Science & Nutrition
ZOE Science & Nutrition
Most replayed moment: How to Balance Sunlight and Suncream | Professor John McGrath
"When you have damaged DNA, it will produce a chemical which we call POMC, pro-opiomelanocortin. One of the other breakdown products of POMC, believe it or not, is beta endorphins. Maybe this is one reason why people like lying in the sun or going to tanning salons, because you're becoming almost a natural junkie with your endorphin release in the skin."
Professor John McGrath revealed on Zoe Recap that DNA damage from sunlight triggers the body to produce beta endorphins, potentially explaining addictive tanning behavior. He suggested this biochemical pathway may drive people to seek sun exposure and tanning salons despite known cancer risks.
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ZOE Science & Nutrition
ZOE Science & Nutrition

Most replayed moment: How to Balance Sunlight and Suncream | Professor John McGrath

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