Archive · 2 Sep 2026
Chinese Workers Use Sunscreen Indoors Against Office Ageing
Some office workers in China are worried that their jobs are making them look older.
They believe office lights, computer screens, and dry air may hurt their skin and eyes.
To protect themselves, some workers put on sunscreen indoors.
Others wear masks that block ultraviolet light or sit under small umbrellas.
People have shared pictures and videos of these habits online.
One worker said his skin became darker and his eyes felt tired after a month at work.
Another person said she looked brighter after taking time away from the office.
The trend also shows that many workers feel stressed and worn out by their jobs.
Chinese tech professionals are sharing indoor ultraviolet-protection routines on Xiaohongshu and Douyin.
Some employees apply sunscreen, wear full-face UV masks, or work beneath mounted parasols.
Workers say artificial lighting, screen blue light, and dry air conditioning may contribute to premature ageing.
A Jiangsu user reported darker skin and strained eyes after one month at a new job.
The trend reflects broader concerns about workplace pressure, health, and physical burnout.
- Who
- Chinese office workers, particularly tech professionals, are participating in or discussing the trend.
- What
- Some employees are using sunscreen, UV-protection masks, and parasols indoors to prevent what they call “office ageing.”
- When
- The trend has recently gone viral on local social media; one Jiangsu user described changes after one month at work.
- Where
- Corporate offices in China, with posts shared on Xiaohongshu and Douyin.
- Why
- Workers believe artificial lighting, screen blue light, dry air conditioning, and workplace pressure may damage their skin or health.
- Trend
- Indoor sunscreen, UV masks, and parasols are being used by some Chinese office workers.
- Term
- “Office ageing” describes the belief that long-term indoor work accelerates visible ageing.
- Platforms
- Workers have shared images and videos on Xiaohongshu and Douyin.
- Reported effect
- A user from Jiangsu said his skin darkened and his eyes felt strained after one month at a job.
- Time away
- A female professional claimed that her appearance looked brighter after taking time off.
- Broader concern
- Observers linked the trend to intense workplace pressure and physical burnout.