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Reading 2 min.
in collaboration with
Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director)
On TikTok, many of Jul’s fans film themselves making the rapper’s famous sign with their fingers on fire. A dangerous trend that Jul asked them to stop. Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor, warns us of the dangers of such a practice.
This is a trend that is literally setting the web on fire… To reproduce the cover of Jul’s record Free Album Vol. 2 released in 2016, with two flaming hands making the rapper’s sign, many Internet users film themselves performing the artist’s emblematic gesture, with fingers on fire. A buzz that can be dangerous, as Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of Doctissimo, recalls.
A dangerous act
Often made by teenagers, they spray their fingers with deodorant, hydroalcoholic gel or perfume, then they bring them close to a candle and make the famous Jul sign.
Beyond its spectacular side, this action is not without risks. Dozens of teenagers have already suffered burns. On the videos relayed on TikTok, we see their facial expression reflect real pain when the fingers catch fire, they then start to shake them hoping that the fire will go out. On some videos, we can even see fires starting or even burnt sheets…
“You absolutely must not put any flammable product on your fingers. This practice is extremely dangerous and can cause serious burns.” explains our expert, Dr. Kierzek.
“They damage the skin deeply, cause intense pain and leave permanent after-effects. Finger burns are generally circumferential (they take the entire finger and go around it causing major healing and blood circulation problems). In addition , flammable products present a high risk of fire and explosion. In the event of accidental burns, rinse immediately with plenty of cold water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention if necessary.”
Jul asks her fans to stop
With 4.2 million subscribers on Instagram, the rapper made a story to warn them of this danger, and ask them not to follow this trend. Published on November 23, Jul writes “If you could stop, that would be good for me.” and specifies “It’s nice but I think it’s a little dangerous for you.”. He concludes his message with “I love you, team Jul from life to death”.
On the social network TikTok, mainly used by young people, many trends can be dangerous for health. Take a step back, and don’t put yourself at risk just to support something or someone you value.