People wanting a fast tan are turning to the latest viral hack of rubbing Coca-Cola onto their skin – and it has skincare experts worried.
According to The Independent, people believe that the sugary beverage helps them tan faster and will use it as a tanning lotion while out in the sun.
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The trend first emerged back in 2006 when Australian entertainer Peter Andre revealed that he would soak himself in Coca-Cola before sunbathing.
The hack, which many swear by, is resurfacing again and is gaining so much momentum in the U.K. that Coca-Cola had to issue a statement on their website: “As much as we love Coca-Cola, we really wouldn’t recommend using it in this way. There is no sun protection factor in it at all – it’s a drink!”
Despite the entertainer’s beliefs, Toronto dermatologist Dr. Lisa Kellett says there is zero scientific proof to support Andre’s claims and denounces the trend as dangerous.
In fact, the ingredients found in cola are harmful and are doing more damage to your skin than you might think.
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Kellet explains that the citric acid and corrosive properties act as an exfoliant to the skin and removes dead cells, leaving your skin vulnerable to sunburns.
“In the short-term – because it makes you more sensitive to sunlight – you can get UVA and UVB induced erythema, which is redness, like a sunburn,” she said. “But over the long-term, we know that without photoprotection, it not only increases your risk of premature aging, but also causes changes to the DNA which might increase your risk of skin cancer.”