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.
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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.”
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