People Are Using Coca-Cola As a Self-Tanner and We’re Seriously Worried
Folks have done some pretty crazy things in the name of beauty: placing leeches on their faces (we’re looking at you, Miranda Kerr!), applying makeup with a Louboutin, or even using their iPhones as makeup palettes. The latest WTF trend in beauty really takes the cake, however, as it’s not only wacky, but dangerous.
People are applying Coca-Cola — yes, the soda — all over their body as you would tanning oil before laying out in the sun, all in the hopes of scoring a deep tan. Apparently, the soda contains a caramel dye that gives skin an extremely bronzed color. Only, here’s the thing: According to Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, this actually isn’t safe at ALL.
“While some feel that Coca-Cola can speed up your tan, it actually can be dangerous, and I recommend staying away from it,” Zeichner told Allure. “Applying it to the skin may lead to a temporary darkening or staining of the skin, but because sodas are acidic, it may exfoliate dead cells, enhancing the ability of UV light to penetrate into the skin. Ultimately, this may increase your risk of a sunburn.”
And, as any responsible sun-goer knows, sunburn is never good, as it can lead to melanoma and other skin cancers, which isn’t worth ANY amount of summer glow. Instead, be sure to wear a lot of sunscreen, applying it at least 30 minutes before going outside. Not only will your skin thank you, but you’ll be a whole lot less sticky too — it’s a win-win!
Can you believe people are using soda to tan? Tweet us @BritandCo.
(Photo via Todd Williamson, Joe Raedle/Getty)
